Theresa Shannan Romer

"Changing the World - One Molecule at a Time" is a biotechnology program created by Romer for the students in her Intensive Science Academy class at Blountstown Middle School. The unique program, which is the only one of its kind in Calhoun County, will provide students with an opportunity to explore fields and activities related to current scientific advances. They will study genetic engineering, commercial biotechnology, and forensic science by transforming bacteria, participating in a simulation and creating a gene clone of a medicinal rainforest plant. In addition, the students will extract their own DNA, separate and visualize DNA fragments at a "crime scene," and employ DNA profiling. The program will not only benefit the 25 students in the class but the resources will also be utilized by more than 100 additional science students. Romer hopes that the program will prepare students to live and compete effectively and prosperously, open their eyes to current events happening around them, learn about the types of scientific jobs available, and inspire them to enter the world of science. Romer lives in Bristol.