معرفی
Susanne T. Nonekowski is a Clinical Professor of Medicinal Chemistry in the Department of Medicinal and Biological Chemistry at the University of Toledo, within the College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences. She holds a Ph.D. in Medicinal Chemistry from the University of Michigan (2001) and has been instrumental in developing innovative teaching methods that support deep active learning and critical thinking skills in medicinal and biological chemistry.
Her educational background includes:
- Ph.D. in Medicinal Chemistry, University of Michigan, 2001
- M.S. in Medicinal Chemistry, University of Michigan, 2000
- B.S. in Biochemistry and Medicinal Chemistry, State University of New York at Buffalo, 1994
Dr. Nonekowski's research focuses on best practices in teaching methods, particularly those supporting deep active learning and critical thinking skills in medicinal and biological chemistry. She has developed innovative approaches to curriculum design, student engagement, and inclusive teaching practices. Her work emphasizes creating student-attuned learning environments that address imposter syndrome and promote equity in STEM education. Through her research, she explores how mental bandwidth, wise feedback techniques, and innovative tools like virtual escape rooms can enhance student learning outcomes in pharmaceutical sciences.
Her recent publications show a clear trend toward educational innovation and faculty development, with a particular emphasis on equity, inclusive teaching practices, and technology-enhanced learning. While her earlier work focused on medicinal chemistry research (particularly tRNA-Guanine Transglycosylase), her recent scholarship has shifted toward STEM education, active learning strategies, and faculty development. Her work bridges the gap between content expertise in medicinal chemistry and evidence-based teaching practices, making significant contributions to pharmaceutical education.
Her scientific achievements have been recognized with numerous awards:
- Inaugural University of Toledo Distinguished University Lecturer (2017)
- 2020-2021 Outstanding Teacher Award
- Association of American Colleges & Universities Project Kaleidoscope STEM Leadership Institute (PKAL) (2019)
- Inaugural University of Toledo Leadership Institute Workshop Series (2016-2017)
Dr. Nonekowski has been an influential educator, teaching numerous undergraduate and graduate courses including Physiological Chemistry, Targeted Drug Design, and Advanced Medicinal Chemistry. She has mentored students through various research practices courses and has been actively involved in faculty development initiatives at the University of Toledo Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning (CETL). Her work extends beyond the classroom to institutional leadership in educational innovation, where she has contributed to campus-wide initiatives focused on student success, equity, and inclusive teaching practices.
She leads initiatives focused on creating communities of practice among educators, particularly through her 'Community of Equity Champion Instructors' project. Her work with virtual escape rooms and student-attuned syllabi represents innovative approaches to engaging pharmacy students in complex biochemical concepts. Through her leadership in the Foundations of Excellence in Teaching Series and various summit presentations, she has helped shape the educational landscape at the University of Toledo.
