In today's fast-changing world, careers in science, technology, engineering, math are hotter than ever. Whether you're interested in computers, chemistry, or any of our degree programs, you'll expand your options and engage your talents.
Our programs run the gamut from earth science to engineering. Oakton's pre-major curriculum and host of transfer agreements provide excellent preparation for transferring to a four-year college.
Whichever program you choose, you'll work with dedicated teachers in facilities that offer the latest in technological advancement.
At Oakton, we offer a special Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) program to prepare you for a career in a STEM field or to provide a springboard for transferring to a four-year college or university. Studying a STEM field such as biology, computer science, engineering or physics unlocks your potential to:
In our STEM program, you will have access to a variety of opportunities and resources as you delve into these important and interesting subjects. Our program has been cited by the New York Times as one of the top community college STEM programs in the country.
Furthermore, our Center for Promoting STEM is widely respected and was established in 2006 to increase the number of students who pursue studies and receive a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.
The goals of CP-STEM are:
So if you're looking to increase your knowledge and skill in the scientific fields and prepare for a rewarding career, Oakton's STEM program is for you!
Oakton College’s STEM Scholars program and scholarship are designed for students with demonstrated financial need pursuing a degree or career in a STEM field, especially students of color, female and LGBTQIA students. STEM Scholars will engage in shared cohort course experiences and have the opportunity to conduct undergraduate research.
In addition to the STEM Scholars program, we offer a number of other opportunities for students.
You can enroll in special STEM200 courses that give you the chance to earn up to four credit hours of independent study in STEM topics. You'll be on a student team, guided by a faculty advisor, investigating a real-world project topic, enabling you to hone your collaboration, communication, decision making and research skills, as well as your creativity.
You can also participate in the Skyway STEM Poster Competition, get job experience and professional connections in an internship or explore special STEM opportunities at four-year institutions.
Department Chairs, Coordinators and Full-time Faculty
Chair – Nicole Perry, Professor of Biology
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Coordinator, A&P - Kanchana Mendes, Professor of Biology
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Paul Gulezian, Professor of Biology
Co-coordinator, Environmental Science
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Tess Lesniak, Assistant Professor, Biology
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Stephanie Levi Blumer, Associate Professor of Biology
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Nizar Handzic, Professor of Biology
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Khursheed Ichhaporia, Associate Professor of Biology
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Harper Mazock, Assistant Professor of Biology
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Kalpa Patel, Professor of Biology
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Kritika Pershad, Associate Professor of Biology
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Bill Strond, Professor of Biology
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Kristi Zenchak, Professor of Biology
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Suzanne Ziegenhorn, Associate Professor of Biology
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Coordinator, Ivan Temesvari, Associate Professor of Mathematics and Computer Science
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Ahmed Al-Hmouz, Associate Professor of Computer Science
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Chair — Sungwon Kim, Professor, Engineering
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Emily Eagan-Rowe, Instructor, Engineering
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Chair — Jennifer Reeb, Distinguished Professor, Mathematics
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Maria Antonopoulos, Associate Professor, Mathematics
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Mario Borha, Associate Professor, Mathematics
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Olga Cedrina Associate Professor, Mathematics
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Michael Farquhar, Professor, Mathematics
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Safa Hamed, Professor, Mathematics
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Anna Hammer, Associate Professor of Mathematics
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Ahyoung Kim, Assistant Professor, Mathematics
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Matthew Lee, Assistant Professor of Mathematics
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Gabriel Porrata Vallejo, Assistant Professor, Mathematics
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Naga Potluri, Professor, Mathematics
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Christopher Saunders, Associate Professor, Mathematics
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Dorota Zak, Professor, Mathematics
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Chair- Chad Landrie, Physical Science/Professor, Chemistry
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Chair – Chad Landrie, Professor of Chemistry
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Valeria Benson-Lira, Assistant Professor of Physical Science
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John Carzoli, Distinguished Professor of Physics
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Theodore Gotis, Professor of Physics
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Melodie Graber, Professor of Chemistry
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Elizabeth Kershisnik, Distinguished Professor of Chemistry
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Gary Mines, Professor of Chemistry
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Zoran Miodragovic, Professor of Chemistry
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Jelle Wiersma, Assistant Professor, Earth Science
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The Stem Scholars Advisory Committee meets each semester to assess progress, make suggestions for improvements, and assist in on-going, formative evaluation. The composition of the advisory committee includes individuals of diverse backgrounds, ethnicities, genders and academic disciplines, reflecting the goals of STEM Scholars.
Michele Brown
Director, Student Recruitment and Outreach
Oakton College
John Carzoli, Ph.D.
Professor, Physics
Oakton College
Reza Dai
Chair, Computer Networking & Systems; Professor, Electronics, Local Area Networks & Mathematics
Oakton College
Al Grippe
Director of Grants Strategy and Development
Oakton College
Krissie Harris
Manager of Student Life and Campus Inclusion, Lecturer
Oakton College
Tess Lesniak
Instructor, Biology
Oakton College
Shannon McKenzie
Internship Specialist
Oakton College
Gary Mines, Ph.D.
Professor, Chemistry
Oakton College
Ella Whitehead
Assistant Director of Enrollment for Equity Outreach
Oakton College
Greg Beitel, Ph.D.
Professor, Department of Molecular Bioscience
Northwestern University
Ami LeFevre
Director of Science
Niles West High School
Jeff Rylander
Instructional Supervisor for Science
Glenbrook South High School
Rebecca Stewart
District CTE Department Chair
Maine Township District 207
Michelle Vasquez
Post-secondary Counselor
Evanston Township High School
David Wartowski
STEM Director
District 69
Dianna Yu
Director of Science
Niles North High School
Jim Rabchuk
Dean of STEM
847.635.1688
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Room 100, Lee Center, Des Plaines