Cohort I Instructors & Classes

Bio: Mr. Douglas McBroom is a Lecturer in Mathematics at UNC Pembroke. An experienced educator and military veteran, he transitioned from a career as a public school teacher and administrator to higher education. A graduate of the United States Military Academy, he served in the armed forces before earning master's degrees from UNC Pembroke and Fayetteville State University. He is married with two children.

Course Title: Making Connections in Mathematics

Course Description: This course deepens students' foundational math skills by exploring how core concepts connect and build upon one another. Students will develop a comprehensive understanding of mathematical relationships and strengthen their problem-solving abilities.

Bio: Dr. Maria Santisteban is a Professor of Biology at UNC Pembroke, specializing in genetics, molecular biology, and genomics. She holds a Ph.D. from the University of Grenoble and directs an NSF-funded S-STEM scholarship program supporting underrepresented students. Dedicated to integrating authentic research into education, she actively leads initiatives like CRISPR in the classroom. 

Course Title: Exploring Genes and Genomes with Real Research Tools

Course Description: Using guided modules and online tools, students will learn how DNA encodes information, how genes are structured, and how scientists use evidence to determine where genes begin and end. By the end of the course, students will complete a simplified gene annotation project- an authentic activity that mirrors the work of undergraduate genomics researchers.

Bio: Dr. Nicolás Negrin Pereira is an Associate Professor of Animal Science in the Department of Biology at UNC Pembroke. An award-winning veterinarian, he holds an M.S. from the University of Aberdeen and a Ph.D. from North Dakota State University. He brings over 23 years of international experience in cattle reproductive biotechnologies to his current research, which focuses on testicular growth and development in prepubertal beef bulls.

Course Title: Applied Biotechnologies in Animal Reproduction

Course Description: This course provides a hands-on introduction to male and female reproductive anatomy and physiology in livestock. Students will explore how this foundational knowledge is applied to improve livestock reproductive efficiency through advanced biotechnologies, including artificial insemination and the use of ultrasonography for pregnancy diagnosis.