The Presidential Award is recognition of the societal importance and value of innovative science education. I am humbled and honored to receive this Award. Every day I am inspired by my students as I strive to empower them to be inquisitive lifelong learners of science. I am excited about the opportunity to collaborate with other dedicated educators who also instill a love of STEM in students as we prepare them to be our future innovators and leaders.

Tiffany Oliver Tampa, FL | 7-12, Science, 2017

The official biography below was current at the time of the award.

Tiffany Oliver has taught biology at T.R. Robinson High School since 2003, and currently teaches International Baccalaureate Higher Level Biology to 11–12th-grade students. She has been an educator for 23 years, teaching previously at the Caribbean International Academy and St. Maarten Montessori School, Northern Virginia Community College, and the University of South Florida. With her passion for science and a strong background in scientific research, Tiffany facilitates real-world experiences for her students. Her hands-on, inquiry-based teaching style and ability to connect biological concepts to students’ interests allows Tiffany to foster curiosity and engagement. For many years, Tiffany has been awarded grants from a variety of sources to engage students in field experiences, providing opportunities to think and act like scientists. Some of Tiffany’s accolades include participation in Google’s Ed Foo Education Conference in 2017; attending the Celebration of Great Teachers by President Barack Obama in 2016; and receiving the Florida Association of Science Teachers 2017 High School Teacher of the Year. She has published in peer-reviewed journals and has presented at regional and national conferences. Tiffany earned her B.S. in biology from the University of Oregon and an M.S. in biology from the University of South Florida. She is certified to teach 6-12th-grade biology.

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