Rebecca L. Sanders

Rebecca L. Sanders is an Associate Professor of Chemistry at North Central College in Naperville, Illinois, where she has served since 2014 and was promoted to her current rank in 2023. She is an active member of the Environmental Studies Program and has chaired the Student Members of the American Chemical Society (SMACS) since 2016, guiding the chapter to six Outstanding Chapter recognitions and two Commendable Chapter awards. Dr. Sanders also serves as Alternate Councilor for the Chicago section of the American Chemical Society.

Her academic background includes:

• Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, Bradley University (2006)
• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Pennsylvania State University (2011)
• Postdoctoral Research Associate, Department of Geosciences, Princeton University (2011-2014)

Dr. Sanders' research bridges Environmental and Analytical Chemistry through studies of organomineral interactions and sustainable remediation techniques, notably using coffee grounds to remove water contaminants. Her work spans biogeochemical cycling in polar/temperate soils, lakes, and oceans, employing solid-state NMR and x-ray beamline methodologies at national laboratories.

Her accolades include:

• Distinguished Teaching Award for Junior Faculty, North Central College (2021)
• Faculty Recognition for Teaching Contributions (2024)
• Dan H. Waugh Memorial Teaching Award, Penn State (2007)
• Phi Kappa Phi Academic Hall of Fame
• ACS Collegiate Scholastic Award
• ACS Undergraduate Award in Analytical Chemistry

She has mentored numerous undergraduate researchers across Penn State, Princeton, and North Central College while securing competitive research support. Dr. Sanders leads an active campus research group and contributes to community initiatives through her daughters' school association.