Craft Academy names Rachel Rogers-Blackwell research project manager

Morehead State University’s Craft Academy for Excellence in Science and Mathematics has announced the addition of Rachel Rogers-Blackwell as research project manager.

 “I’m excited about the opportunity to be part of the Craft Academy at Morehead State. The challenging math and science curriculum coupled with the project-based STEM+X experience of the Craft Academy will be a model for education nationally,” said Rogers-Blackwell.

Rogers-Blackwell was a high school biology teacher for nine years and has worked at Morehead State University for the last six years. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in speech communication, Bachelor of Science degree in biology, National Board Teaching Certification, Master of Arts  in teaching, educational specialist degree and is currently a doctoral candidate completing her Ph.D. degree in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education.

She has used research to author winning grants of more than $1 million in order to fund programs and projects for more than 21 local school districts. Her successful track record in managing and working on more than $1.5 million in grant projects to date has strengthened her capacity to effectively manage simultaneous projects and collaborate with stakeholders. Her experiences during the past 15 years, enthusiasm for learning and strong STEM background assists Rogers-Blackwell in her focus on student success in education.

As Research Project Manager, Rogers-Blackwell will help students develop strong relationships with campus faculty and assist with products and research to be presented at a local, state and national venue. In addition, she will support students in seeking summer internships and serve as a student liaison to the MSU faculty and local community leaders in seeking research/project opportunities, in addition to actively seeking competition and conferences.

The Craft Academy for Excellence in Science and Mathematics was designed to meet the unique educational needs of academically gifted and talented high school juniors and seniors in the Commonwealth. A college-level curriculum allows students to finish high school while also completing up to two years of university coursework while living on campus.

The Craft Academy offers unique, project-based STEM+X courses that enrich educational experiences and develop competencies in entrepreneurship and innovation, design and creativity and civic and regional engagement.

Students live on campus in Grote-Thompson Hall, which has been remodeled with meeting and social space and 24/7 staffing. Counselors and advisors also are available.

Students are selected based on ACT and SAT scores, academic grades from their first two years of high school, interest in advanced STEM careers, responses to application essay questions, interview by the academy selection committee and recommendations from teachers and others who could attest to the student's need and preparedness for the program.

At the end of the two years, students will have earned a minimum of 60 credit hours, finished high school and have the opportunity to further their education at MSU or transfer to any other college/university in Kentucky or elsewhere.

Additional information on the Craft Academy for Excellence in Science and Mathematics is available by calling 606-783-9025 or at www.moreheadstate.edu/craft-academy.