Steven Iona

Steven Iona serves as Teaching Professor and Associate Chair in the Department of Physics & Astronomy at the University of Denver's College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics. With nearly two decades at DU, he became a full Teaching Professor in 2017, teaching physics courses for non-physics science majors including pre-med, biology, and chemistry students while coordinating Physics Day at Elitch Gardens Amusement Park.

His educational background includes:

• Ph.D. in Physics Education, University of Denver, 1994
• BS in Mathematics, University of Chicago, 1974
• MA in Mathematics Education, University of Chicago, 1974
• Colorado Administrator License
• Colorado Professions Teachers License

His research focuses on cognitive associations in physics problem-solving and conceptual development, implementing grants on classroom response systems and lecture demonstrations. He extends this work through the Colorado Learning Assistant Program (which he co-founded) and CU Boulder's Science Education Initiative, developing curriculum materials based on learning objectives.

His distinguished awards include:

• Radio Shack Teaching Award (2001)
• Presidential Award for Mathematics and Science Teaching (2002)
• University of Denver Pioneer Award for Teaching (2013)
• University Distinguished Teaching Award (2020)

Steven has supervised student teachers and served as Mentor Teacher in district induction programs. He directed the Denver Area Physics Teacher Group for five years and held leadership roles on the American Association of Physics Teachers national board, including national president. He actively contributes to the Colorado Science Conference and Colorado Science and Engineering Fair.

As a founding instructor of CU Boulder's Colorado Learning Assistant Program, he supports undergraduate facilitators in large courses. Currently, he develops programs to help students understand post-graduation career options in physics and STEM fields.