CHRISTOPHER LEWINE: "I strongly believe that education has the power not only to change an individual’s life, but also to change the shape and direction of our society."

Christopher Lewine attributes his desire to teach to a deeply-rooted passion for social justice. Growing up in Brazil and the United States, Christopher had the unique opportunity to experience different cultures, while witnessing vast disparities that he wishes to confront through education. "Having the opportunity to help others less fortunate sparked a fire to fight inequality that continues to burn strongly."

The oldest of 26 cousins, Christopher credits his parents for influencing him to pursue teaching as a career. His father, the first member of his family to go to college, passed along to his son a belief in the power of education.  Christopher graduated magna cum laude with a BA in economics from Yale University, where he also designed curriculum for health workshops in New Haven public schools. While studying at the Stanford Teacher Education Program (STEP), he worked with experienced teachers on an intensive algebra course, a turning point for him. "I saw the power of quality teaching in action, as self-professed math haters left the classroom feeling confident about their improved abilities."

KATIE WADDLE: "I think teaching can be a way to address the vast social and economic injustice inherent in our country’s structures."

Katie Waddle fell in love with mathematics as an undergraduate at the University of Chicago. Upon earning her degree in the subject, she sought ways to continue discussing and thinking about mathematics.  “Teaching seemed like the best way to continue talking about math while making a difference in the lives of others.” With this realization, she headed west to make her dream a reality and earn a teaching degree.

While learning the ropes as a student teacher at a public school in San Francisco, Katie found the experience to be “mind-blowing, inspiring and personally challenging.”  She also came to terms with the power and the responsibility teachers have to impact others. “Unlike other professions, the decisions I make every day will have far-reaching consequences on many lives.”