She has a B.S. in cellular molecular biology, cum laude, and M.S. in secondary education from Fort Hays State University with certifications in biology, chemistry, agriculture, and earth and space science. Albin, a 2019 National Presidential Awardee for Excellence in Science Teaching and a 2017 Milken Educator, is known for her ability to make content relevant to life and for developing unique, multifaceted, engaging lessons through interaction with the outdoors and the community.
What do you now do for a living? How did you end up choosing this career path?
I have been the Science Teacher and Character Education Coordinator at Complete High School Maize (CHSM) for the past 10 years where I teach 9-12th grade Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science, Physical Science, Agriculture, Health, Career Skills, and Character Education. This career decision was influenced by my love for science and the many wonderful teachers I had while growing up.
Why did you choose to attend FHSU?
I grew up in Colorado and spent my first year at the University of Northern Colorado. After marrying my husband who is from Kansas, I looked into Kansas universities to attend. FHSU was by far the best option for me in terms of degree, cost, preference, and credit transfers. When touring the campus, I was impressed by the atmosphere, buildings, faculty, and programs.
What are your favorite memories from your time as a student?
I had the opportunity to be a tutor in the Kelly Center. Maggie Denning was in charge of the program and she made her tutors feel valued. I enjoyed helping other students with their classes and feeling like I had something to offer.
What advice do you have for current or prospective FHSU students?
Take summer classes! I was able to graduate with my Bachelor’s in only 3 years because of taking summer classes and loading up on classes during the semesters.
Tell us about someone at FHSU who has left a lasting impression:
I had so many awesome professors during my time at FHSU. Dr. Richard Packauskas, Dr. Bill Stark, Dr. Rob Channell. Dr. Beth Walizer, Dr. Suzanne Becking, Dr. Jim Barrett, and many more. The two that made the most impact on me were Dr. Eric Gillock and Dr. Robert Allan Moody. Dr. Gillock was my professor in General Microbiology, Immunology, and Microbiology of the Pathogens and his lectures were always interesting and informative. He made students feel like they had value and he was always willing to help. He also patiently answered many, many questions I had and allowed me to investigate deeper than what was required. Dr. Moody had an amazing personality and made each of his students feel empowered and important. He taught me a lot about pedagogy and was a fantastic example of how an educator should be.
In what ways are you proud to be a Tiger?
To me, Fort Hays State University symbolizes hard work and exceptional skills without superciliousness. Tigers work for the good of others and the world, focusing on lasting benefits rather than personal legacy.
Additional comments:
I feel blessed to have attended such a fine university where my instructors knew my name and cared about my success!
Heidi Albin ’09, ’13
