In this post we recognize Grace Spatafora, Given Professor of Biology & Pre-Medical Sciences, for her 25 years of Service to Middlebury. Grace shares her career path here at Middlebury, some of her fondest Midd memories, and her favorite spot on campus. Read on to learn more about Midd from Grace’s point of view.

What job titles have you held while working at Middlebury?

1. Visiting Assistant Professor
2. Assistant Professor
3. Associate Professor with tenure
4. Full Professor
5. Irene Heinz and John LaPorte Given Professor in the Premedical Sciences (Endowed Chair)

What are the most significant things happening in your life outside of work now?

1. Raising our 15-year old daughter, Olivia.
2. Staying connected with my husband, Doug to whom I’ve been married for 21 years.
3. Serving on the Board of the Vermont Academy of Science and Engineering keeps me busy.
4. Serving as the Horse Show Secretary for the Vermont Hunter Jumper Association.

What is your fondest memory or experience that you’ve had while working at Middlebury?

1. Witnessing the personal and intellectual growth of my students.
2. Getting tenure in 1999.
3. Moving into my new lab in Bicentennial Hall in 2000.
4. Being the recipient of an Endowed Chair in 2008.
5. Winning the Perkins Award this year which was especially meaningful because the recipient is nominated by students.
6. Bringing my Great Dane “Cleo” to work with me each day back when the sciences were taught in the Old Science Center (ie. where the new Davis library is currently located.) A piece of the Old Science Building sits on my desk to this day!

Do you have a favorite place on campus?

I love walking out to the organic garden in the late afternoon on a sunny day and looking back at McCardell Bicentennial Hall.