Our Staff

Julie Morris is thrilled to be joining the Growing the STEM team. Julie, a Whitworth University graduate with a BS in math, has been tutoring for two decades and volunteering at Hayden Meadows Elementary. After living in Alaska and Texas, Julie settled in Hayden, Idaho, in 2018. She is currently the President and also is our Program Coordinator.

Nancy Hart was born and raised in North Idaho, she has been actively involved in the Coeur d'Alene public school system for 15 years, serving as PTO chair, school volunteer, substitute teacher, and community education activist. She graduated from the University of Idaho in 1994 with a degree in advertising. Inspired by her two daughters, one a college junior studying aerospace engineering and the other a freshman studying engineering, Nancy is passionate about her involvement with GTS.  

Mara Thorhaug is an Environmental Health Scientist at Alta Science and Engineering. With a BA from Cornell University and an MPH from the University of Minnesota, she has worked on various environmental health projects. Mara first learned about Growing the STEM through her children’s participation in their programs. A Coeur d’Alene resident for over 20 years, Mara is passionate about educational opportunities for underserved populations and serves as the Board Secretary for GTS. 

Deirdre Lawrence, a Staff Accountant at Ednetics, Inc., was  founding board member for CDAIDE, a nonprofit supporting the hospitality industry. A 2019 graduate of Lewis-Clark State College with a BS in business administration, Deirdre has also volunteered for United Way's Day of Caring. Her commitment to community service and education drives her passion for GTS, as she believes in providing essential STEM opportunities to prepare students for the future. Deirdre serves as Treasurer.  

Nick Ebner is a Principal Engineer at ACE Solutions and a licensed engineer in 8 States, including Idaho, Washington, and Montana. He holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Gonzaga University. Residing in Coeur d’Alene with his wife and two children, who attend Winton Elementary, Nick was inspired to join Growing the STEM through his professional experiences, believing that diversity strengthens the engineering industry. He currently serves as the Governance Chair for GTS. 

Heather Mangini is a teacher at Fernan STEM Academy in Coeur d'Alene, teaching fourth grade. With a bachelor's degree in elementary education K-8 and special education K-12, and a master's degree in special education from the University of Idaho, Heather has taught grades 2-5, special education, and advanced learning. A Math is Cool advisor for six years, she deeply believes in Growing the STEM's mission and serves as the Chair of the Human Resources Committee. 

Alyssa McLemore is the Director of Laboratory Operations for Fellow. As a Clinical Lab Scientist, she has built CLIA laboratories for nearly ten years. Alyssa graduated from UC Davis with a BS in Biotechnology and a minor in Technology Management. She completed the Clinical Laboratory Science Program at San Jose State University. Inspired by her son’s experiences at Hayden Meadows, she passionately supports GTS, serving as the Marketing Chair. 

Kristin Thomas, a K-5 STEM instructor at Fernan STEM Academy, holds degrees in English language arts and education. A former Dalton Elementary PTA board member and Girl Scout troop leader, she combines her passion for public education and girl empowerment. Kristin hosted the pilot GTS Health Science Club for the '23-'24 school year, where she gained firsthand experience of GTS’s reach and impact. Kristin continues to host GTS clubs and currently serves as the Youth Development Committee Chair. 

Breland Tommerup, a dedicated Idaho educator, earned her master's degree in educational leadership from Lamar University. With 10 years of experience as a classroom and gifted and talented cluster teacher, she is now the Region 1 & 2 GT facilitator for Idaho. Inspired by her daughters' experiences with GTS, Breland serves as the Education Chair on the GTS Board of Directors.  

Ashley Williams, a Senior Project Manager at Welch Comer Engineers, holds a BS in civil engineering and an MS in water resources from the University of Idaho. She volunteers with the Pacific Northwest Clean Water Association and serves on the advisory board for UI Civil Engineering. Ashley, drawn to GTS to foster early STEM interest, serves as the STEM Industry Chair on the GTS Board. 

Ava Jaeger is an active member of the National Honor Society and a dedicated Student Coach with Growing the STEM. She values the opportunity to mentor younger students and demonstrate leadership through service. As she prepares for college, Ava remains committed to her academics, her community, and her work with GTS, where she inspires curiosity and confidence in STEM. 

Coeur d'Alene High School

Alyssa Robinson is passionate about leadership and giving back to her community. As Treasurer of Key Club at CHS, she helps organize service projects and fundraisers that make a positive local impact. She enjoys skiing and mentoring younger students, where she shares her love of learning and encourages them to grow and succeed. 

More coming soon...

Lake City High School

Samuel Smith is excited to be serving as a Student Coach and Student Board Member. He is an active leader in his school community, involved in Business Professionals of America, Youth in Government, Speech and Debate, and DECA. He also serves as a Junior Representative on Student Council, plays lacrosse, and performs on the double bass in Orchestra. He looks forward to contributing to GTS and supporting its mission of expanding STEM opportunities for students.

Coeur d'Alene Charter Academy

Caitlin Zent is passionate about education and community service. As a member of the National Junior Honor Society and National Honor Society, Caitlin has coached three GTS programs and now serves as the Student Board Member representing her school, eager to further contribute to GTS.