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Sarah Fraci
Education Change Maker - Girls & Women in STEM - STEM Ambassador - Connector of Networks & Partnerships - STEM Senior Educator - Townsville STEM Hub Founder - Board Member
Professional Background
Sarah Chapman is an accomplished educator and STEM advocate with a wealth of experience in secondary education and a strong commitment to empowering students and communities through science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). With roles spanning across national and international platforms, Sarah has established herself as a leading voice in the promotion of STEM education, particularly as it relates to creating opportunities for change makers and innovators of the future.
In her current role as Head of Department at the Queensland Department of Education, Sarah oversees and implements curriculum initiatives that enhance the delivery of STEM education across schools in Queensland. Her leadership position allows her to inspire and empower both educators and students, fostering a culture that values science education and innovation. Sarah’s work is not just confined to the walls of her department; she is actively engaged in expanding her influence and promoting STEM beyond traditional boundaries.
Sarah’s professional journey includes notable experience as a STEM Ambassador at Science & Technology Australia, where she worked tirelessly to connect and engage stakeholders across the industry. Her former role as Project Manager at the Global Tropical Futures Project within the Department of Education equipped her with invaluable skills in project management and collaboration, ensuring that innovative educational practices are adopted and integrated into everyday learning experiences.
Throughout her career, Sarah has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence in education, with milestones that reflect her dedication and passion for student learning and development. Her contributions extend beyond her immediate work environment, as she continuously champions STEM initiatives at both the state and national levels, creating a rich network of influence.
Education and Achievements
Sarah Chapman is a proud alumna of James Cook University, where she pursued her academic endeavors, obtaining a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, followed by Honours in Science specializing in Biochemistry. Her academic foundation was further fortified with a Graduate Bachelor of Education, focusing on Secondary Education and Teaching. The depth of her educational background uniquely positions her to blend scientific expertise with pedagogical strategies, ensuring that her approach to STEM education is both comprehensive and effective.
Her exemplary contributions to education have been recognized through numerous prestigious awards. In 2013, Sarah was honored with the Prime Minister’s Prize for Excellence in Secondary Teaching, a testament to her dedication and impact on the teaching profession and her students' lives. This award reflects Sarah's ability to inspire young minds and engage them in the wonders of science, influencing future generations of scientists and innovators.
The recognition continued in 2016 when she was awarded the Chief Executive Women-Barbara Cail International STEM Fellowship. This esteemed fellowship enabled Sarah to further her mission of enhancing STEM education globally while fostering impactful networks with professionals and organizations dedicated to the same cause.
Most recently, in 2019, Sarah was awarded the Commonwealth Bank of Australia & Schools Plus Teaching Fellowship, recognizing her ongoing commitment to innovation in education and her desire to create transformative learning experiences for students. Sarah's achievements speak volumes about her influence and effectiveness in the field of education, particularly within the STEM domain.
Achievements
Throughout her distinguished career, Sarah Chapman has achieved numerous accolades and recognition that highlight her commitment to STEM education. Here are some key highlights:
- Prime Minister’s Prize for Excellence in Secondary Teaching (2013): This award underscores Sarah's exceptional dedication to excellence in teaching and her profound impact on students in secondary education.
- Chief Executive Women-Barbara Cail International STEM Fellowship (2016): This fellowship provided Sarah with an international platform to advocate for STEM, allowing her to connect with fellow leaders and innovators in the field.
- Commonwealth Bank of Australia & Schools Plus Teaching Fellowship (2019): This fellowship reflects Sarah's innovative approaches to teaching and her ability to implement effective educational practices.
As a dedicated professional, Sarah's journey in the field of education exemplifies her passion for empowering students and fellow educators alike. With a focus on STEM, she remains committed to nurturing the next generation of learners and leaders, ensuring that they have the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate an increasingly complex and technology-driven world.
