Dr. Sunshine Silver loves problem solving, which is what drew her to chemistry. “Throughout my life and career as a chemist,” she says, “I’ve learned that the best problem-solving occurs when people of varying backgrounds, experiences, and ideas can work together toward a common goal.”

In the classroom, Silver’s students experience this process through her encouragement of working together to solve problems and share ideas. “There is nothing quite like the scientific discovery process,” she claims.

The Johnson Center for Science and Community Life—with its state-of-the-art labs and classrooms—is a key component for student success in North Park’s science programs. According to Silver, the wonderful facilities and instrumentation available to North Park’s students will prepare them for graduate school or a future career in science.

As faculty advisor for the Chemistry Club, Silver also works with students as they identify careers in areas that they’re passionate about. “In addition to graduate school,” she says, “there are many options for our students, including research, health science, crime lab assistant, laboratory technician or coordinator, pharmacist, chemical sales representative, chemical information specialist, and more.”