The National Science Teaching Association (NSTA) has been important to Dr. Donna Governor, assistant professor of science education at the University of North Georgia (UNG), throughout her career. She attended her first NSTA conference in 1988 and has been a member and presenter for the group since the mid-1990s.

That makes her new role as one of 13 members of the NSTA's Board of Directors and division director of preservice teacher education all the more exciting.

"NSTA has been a major part of my professional development, and I know how it's impacted me," Governor said. "To have the opportunity to influence the next generation of teachers of science is incredible."

Governor also serves as faculty adviser for the UNG student chapter of NSTA, which she said helps jumpstart career opportunities for College of Education students.

The UNG faculty member sees NSTA's efforts as crucial in helping elementary teachers realize the need to make science enjoyable for students. If this foundation is laid, she said, students will embrace the discipline once they have specialized science classes in middle and high school.

A major portion of NSTA's efforts include the thousands of resources the organization provides, ranging from webinars to publications, as well as providing other professional development opportunities for both current and preservice teachers.

Governor was one of four new board members announced in June. The Board of Directors oversees NSTA's finances, policies and procedures, and strategic planning. She has previously served as a district director for the NSTA Council, has published two books with the group, and served in other leadership roles.