“Studying and practicing science helps you to develop a curious mind. We use STEM throughout our lives on a daily basis. Science is a lifelong experience.”
Dr. Larry Sernyk brings a lifetime of involvement in the sciences to students and learners across the globe. His interest for chemistry was fostered by his family, and his passion for education and community outreach emerged during his role as a project leader for Dow AgroSciences. His volunteerism originally took form judging state and international science fairs, and then bringing STEM activities to public schools and events. He went on to organize Dow AgroSciences’ Science Ambassador group to increase the impact of the company in local communities. Sernyk connected with You Be The Chemist in 2010, and has since led almost 40 hands-on workshops as an instructor certified through the Chemical Educational Foundation.
Sernyk’s devotion to sharing his knowledge with communities everywhere has made him a CEF Community Champion. He recognizes the people in his life, like his parents who always encouraged him to explore different areas of science and teachers who provided encouragement and guidance that fostered his interest in science.
A love of chemistry began when Sernyk and his brothers were allowed to “have a chemistry lab in the basement which made chemistry so much more fun.” Supported by his family and teachers, his fascination was reinforced and led him to a career in which he “enjoyed every day of [his] working life.”
In his ultimate career as a plant breeder, Sernyk led teams responsible for the creation of Omega-9 canola oil and insect-resistant cotton. Sernyk acknowledges how much his mentors helped him on his path. Participating in You Be The Chemist provides him with the perfect way to “help encourage and support the next generation of scientists [as] a great way to give back.”
One of Sernyk’s most memorable experiences as a mentor occurred when a student participating in STEM activities at the Indiana State Fair shared that she “really didn’t have an interest in science until she experienced the hands-on activities at our booth.” It’s that inspiration through hands-on exploration that Sernyk hopes to introduce to help develop the STEM workforce of tomorrow.
