Erinn Dady

I am excited about my new role, as Assistant Director of the Integrative Biology Merit Program in the School of Integrative Biology. Merit courses develop a community of scholars by providing challenging problem sets that students solve together through active participation in teams. Integrative Biology is an interdisciplinary field that examines biological systems through their relation to other disciplines – and our Merit courses embody this collaborative spirit.  I am eager to support student success within SIB and across campus. 

After returning to school at Parkland College, I was selected to participate in an undergraduate research experience. That opportunity changed the trajectory of my life, and I transferred to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, where I earned my B.S in Earth, Society, & Environmental Sustainability and my M.S. in Entomology. During my studies, I enjoyed community-building using science outreach. There are so many wonderful science events around town, including the Mudpuppy Festival, Art of Science, the Bat Festival, Science at the Market, and the ever-popular Insect Fear Film Festival. There are also tons of local art and music events - Boneyard Arts Festival, West Side Arts, Friday Night Live, Ellnora Guitar Festival, and Pygmalion are only a fraction of the offerings. 

I enjoy discovering new art and music, so feel free to share your latest favorites with me!