Condry Named Blue Key Distinguished Educator

The NDSU chapter of the Blue Key National Honor Society has named Danielle Condry, assistant professor of practice in the Department of Microbiological Sciences, as the 2022 NDSU Distinguished Educator. The award was created in 1969 by Blue Key to honor an outstanding educator for going beyond what is required to benefit and assist NDSU students.

Carson Markovic, Blue Key member and nominator, praised Condry's dedication to education. "Danielle stands out to me as one of the most passionate professors at North Dakota State University. She is motivated to create a classroom environment of support, respect, inclusivity and active learning," Markovic said. "Danielle's spirit for teaching has influenced many for the better at NDSU and in the F-M community, and we are fortunate to have her at our university."

John McEvoy, head of microbiological sciences, said, "Dr. Condry works tirelessly to create inclusive, equitable and supportive learning environments where students excel. Her innovative strategies and leadership have transformed how we approach teaching in our microbiology programs. We are delighted to see her work recognized with this prestigious award."

Condry, a North Dakota native, came to NDSU in 2018, after spending four years on the faculty at the University of North Dakota, where she also earned her bachelor's degree in biology with a 7-12 teaching certificate and doctorate in microbiology and immunology at the UND Medical School.

Condry conducts discipline-based education research (DBER) by mentoring multiple graduate and undergraduate students, exploring topics such as utilizing concept inventories to improve curricula, community engaged learning experiences, developing science communication skills in STEM majors, and using peer mentoring to retain and build persistence in STEM research students. She chairs multiple committees related to curriculum in her department, as well as chairs the Agricultural Affairs Diversity Equity and Inclusion Council and is a member of the DBER Interdisciplinary PhD Steering Council. She is president of the West Fargo Lions Club and regularly volunteers in the F-M area with her children in the Cass County 4-H program.

"I am grateful to work in a career and environment that allows me to help so many students achieve their goals and be successful. My students' success is what brings me joy and it is a great honor to be recognized and selected for this award," Condry said.