Kate Penner

I entered Harvard College with an interest in physics and graduated in 2007 with a concentration in government and a secondary field in economics. I made my way back to mathematics the long way, and am fascinated by how students learn and process math and science. After ten years teaching in the math department, I recently left my preceptor role to become an Academic Coach at the Academic Resource Center. While I have a special focus on STEM, I serve students of multiple backgrounds and interests.  I am particularly focused on accessibility in science and mathematics, supporting students as they embark on new coursework & its demands. 

I am a long-time member of the Board of First-Year Advisors, a graduate student at the Harvard Graduate School of Education (focusing on high school to college STEM transitions), and a program coordinator for the Harvard College Emerging Scholars Program. I am also a professional dancer and dance teacher in the Boston area. I am currently on the faculty of the Boston Ballet School and work as part of the team behind the Vail Dance Festival. 

It is enough a part of my life to mention that I am a big figure skating fan. If you can differentiate between a lutz and a flip (or want to know the difference), come find me in the dining hall!