Readymade Family

Abstract

A chance meeting in the college eatery called the Gizmo during my senior year changed my life forever. Twenty-eight years ago, I met Kel, who had three children ages 4, 6, and 7. We both wanted to finish our undergraduate degrees and go to graduate school. I would graduate from college in just a few weeks, and Kel still had 2 more years to go. Of course my friends thought that I was insane to even consider dating a woman with three kids. I loved children! I had nine nieces and nephews, and I had been an aunt since I was 9 years old. I always told my mom that I never wanted to physically have kids (it hurt), but I would love to adopt some of my own. My other reason, besides being terrified of childbirth, was that I believe there are too many kids already in the world who need to be loved.

About the Author

Education and Professional Career

1989:

BA Chemistry, Knox College, Galesburg, IL

1999:

PhD Analytical Chemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN

1997–1999:

Instructor of Chemistry, Knox College, Galesburg, IL

1999–2004:

Assistant Professor, Knox College, Galesburg, IL

2004–2011:

Associate Professor, Knox College, Galesburg, IL

2012–2016:

Chair of Chemistry, Knox College, Galesburg, IL

2011–present:

Professor, Knox College, Galesburg, IL

Honors and Awards (Selected)

2014:

Faculty Exceptional Achievement Award, Knox College

2008:

Trio Achievement Program Distinguished Educator Award, Knox College

2006:

Howard Hughes Medical Institute Faculty Fellowship, Knox College

1997–1998:

Howard Hughes Medical Institute Teaching Fellowship, Knox College

Mary has published in the Journal of Physical Chemistry, the International Journal of Chemical Kinetics, and the Journal of Chemical Education. She has received funding from NSF and is currently finishing her term as the Gay, Transgender and Allies subdivision of the Professional Relations Division of the American Chemical Society (ACS). Mary is also the Chair-Elect of the entire Division of Professional Relations. In addition to her commitment to ACS nationally, Mary works with local elementary schools and her local section of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) to encourage and inspire future science students.