Today we have a very special spotlight and it's Baylor's own provost, Dr. Nancy Brickhouse!
What inspired you to pursue a career in STEM?
My parents had a strong influence on the opportunities I chose to pursue. From my mother, I developed a love of the arts. From my father, I developed of love of science. He founded his own company, an analytical testing company. His original intention was for this company to serve the needs of farmers for scientific information. We would test hay for protein, for example. When Rachel Carson wrote “Silent Spring” and the Environmental Protection Agency was created, a whole new market for environmental testing was created. I spent my teens conducting these tests and developing a relatively strong set of scientific skills. My dad also involved me in his “hobbies,” that included constructing a graduated salt-water solar pond and growing water hyacinths in order to ferment them and capture methane gas. These early experiences taught me the value of scientific knowledge in addressing very practical problems.
How would you describe your work to the public?
Very few people know what a provost is. That means I frequently explain what I do to others. A provost is the chief academic officer. I’m responsible for the work of the faculty –teaching, research and service. My job is to provide faculty with the support they need, and to provide direction so that the work of the faculty serves our students and Baylor’s mission well.
What do you enjoy doing the most?
I really enjoy learning about the work the faculty are doing. Whether it’s developing innovative ways of engaging students, developing new materials for airplanes, conducting a world-class orchestra, or studying how demographic changes affect religious communities –I really enjoy learning what faculty are learning. Knowing what faculty are studying also gives me insight into who they are as individuals –what motivates and inspires them.
Share an accomplishment that younger you would have thought unachievable.
Going to Baylor as a freshman. My dad taught at Kilgore Junior College in my hometown and of the students from my high school planning to go to college the large majority of them would go to Kilgore College. We always assumed I would attend Kilgore Junior College and then transfer. When I talked to my parents about going to Baylor as a Freshman, they listened, and they found the money to make it happen. I will always be grateful to them for that.
If you can give advice to the younger generation, what would it be?
Pursue experiences that provide you with opportunities for new learning. Challenge yourself and enjoy a journey where you are always a work in progress.
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