Blog Post

Meet Our Newest Team Member - Sarah Cook!

Last month, Sarah Cook joined the TSIN team as a Project Specialist. Sarah brings a wealth of experience in program management, having previously worked at the Tennessee Department of Education and the University of Tennessee-Knoxville. We interviewed Sarah to learn why she is passionate about advancing STEM opportunities for students, what she is most looking forward to in her new role, and her love of exploring.

What is your background? How did you end up at Battelle?

The majority of my background is working in higher education in academic and career advising. Most recently I transitioned to working with K-12 students through early postsecondary opportunities at the Tennessee Department of Education. Through the department’s partnership with TSIN for Code.org, I became familiar with the fabulous work Battelle does for both students and educators in STEM, and I thought, I’d love to be a part of that team and that mission!

Why are you passionate about advancing STEM education in Tennessee?

As a former academic advisor, I have spent a lot of time helping students find career fields that align to their passions and skills. STEM careers meet so many diverse student goals. Not only are there tons of current and projected STEM career options in Tennessee, but STEM education also builds transferable skill sets, such as critical thinking and problem solving, which are fundamental to any career field. STEM education opens up a myriad of possibilities for everyone!

Why are you excited about your new role?

Quality STEM education begins with quality professional development opportunities for teachers. I’m thrilled to be able to collaborate with my new team and partners to plan and execute TSIN’s diverse STEM professional development opportunities for Tennessee’s hard-working educators.

What do you like to do in your free time?

I love to travel and experience new cultures, and I’m always interested in finding new art galleries and museums to explore.

What’s an interesting fact people might not know about you?

One summer, I worked for room and board at a camp in Hawaii so I could snorkel, hike, and learn to surf!