Mary Gray, a chemistry teacher, serves as the Science Department Chair at Jefferson Davis County High School in Bassfield, MS. Her teaching career spans over 27 years. During this time, she taught various science courses from seventh grade to college sophomore levels. Mary completed her BS degree in Biology at Alcorn State University. In addition, she holds an MS degree in Invertebrate Zoology/Parasitology from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville and an MS degree in Systematics and Ecology/Parasitology from the University of Kansas. Mary matriculates in the University of Southern Mississippi’s (USM) STEM Education PhD Program. Her dissertation focuses on competitive robotics and the self-concept of students living in underprivileged rural areas of Mississippi. One of Mary’s recent accomplishments is being selected as a USM Research Experience for Teachers Fellow for 2021 and 2022. During those summers, her projects dealt with 1) the flammability of polymers and 2) the physical characteristics and mechanical testing of polymer composites. Another of Mary’s noteworthy triumphs is being the recipient of one of five 2023 EDGEucating Ideamapper Mind Mapping MicroGrants. Her other research interests include parasites of lower vertebrates, fish, and amphibians. Mary was named the Mississippi Section-ACS 2024 High School Chemistry Teacher of the Year. She also participates in the American Chemical Society’s Science Coach Program. Mary’s current research aims to use competitive robotics to augment one’s self-concept and self-confidence in areas outside of STEM. Her hobbies include photography, gardening, and robotics. Mary looks forward to spreading her wings as she becomes a teacher of teachers.

Title Of Talk : Improving Polymer Flame Retardancy