Faculty Spotlight: Lisa Reilly

BETHANY, W.Va. – Bethany College’s Faculty Friday series was launched in an effort to connect current and prospective students, staff, and alumni with our distinguished faculty members, who are actively involved in the betterment of our students and institution, both inside and outside of the classroom.

We would like to introduce our sixth spotlight- Professor of Chemistry, Department of Physical and Computational Sciences Dr. Lisa Reilly. To get to know Reilly better, read her Q&A below

Q: What additional positions or involvement do you have at Bethany or outside of Bethany?

A: Department Chair, Advisor to Pre-Health Club and Student Government.

Q: What is your education background?

A: B.S. from Mercyhurst (College) University and a Ph.D. from Oklahoma State University

Q: Why should prospective students pursue a degree in chemistry?

A: Chemistry is ever-changing and flexible which is what attracted me to it. The field provided me with a variety of interdisciplinary paths to explore. These connections included history, art, physics, biology, computer science, business, and other communities of inquiry. It was my fit, but every individual needs to explore multiple fields to see where their passion and path lie.

Q: Everyone has a reason for doing what they love. Many times, this is referred to as your “why”- some people say their “why” was a calling from childhood, while others say their “why” is for fulfilling a greater life purpose. What is your “why” for being a part of Bethany College’s faculty?

A: When looking at becoming a professor after a post-doc research experience, I wanted to find a place where I would be able to be in a community of learners. I found that at Bethany. I stay because the students, faculty, staff, and administration value learning beyond their field of study or their position. The full learning experience – inside and outside the traditional classroom- is appreciated.

Q: If you had only one word to represent Bethany College and what the College means to you, what would that one word be?

A: Community