University Appoints Biology Professor as STEM Faculty Fellow

Salem State University recently announced the appointment of biology professor Lisa Delissio as STEM faculty fellow for the 2015-16 academic year. Professor Delissio, of Salem, will coordinate the university’s efforts relative to the STEM areas of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. These will include—but are not limited to—a Mass Life Science Center grant, a STEM enrollment and retention grant and STEM Bridge programs.

Professor Delissio will also be tasked with providing opportunities for improved collaboration and communication between STEM and STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics) areas. The position highlights a desire by the university to set a new direction in the areas of interdisciplinary initiatives, external partnerships and continued relationships with other academic institutions while strengthening its STEM and STEAM presence on the North Shore and beyond.

Professor Delissio’s research interests include climate change, tropical forests, small island ecology, and science education. Additionally, she is the author of a blog on the use of the arts to teach STEM disciplines. Delissio spent her fall 2014 sabbatical as scientist-in-residence at the Peabody Essex Museum.