Dr. Takisha Bolden-Gastile exemplifies the qualities that an excellent teacher should have. She looks for the best qualities in her students and then goes above and beyond to help enable them to succeed. Acting as both a teacher and a role model, she provided me with much needed support and encouragement. She was my UTEACH instructor at UHCL for several years and taught me many of the skills I use as a STEM teacher every day. Dr. Bolden-Gastile is someone I look up to, she is an educator of educators as well as a mentor, advisor, and advocate for her students.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Seeing Dr. Gastile in the classroom was always a highlight of my week. Her passion for STEM is clear, and her project-based learning approach made every class engaging and meaningful. She connected my fellow UTeach students and I with professionals and educators in the field, giving us real-world insight and valuable networking opportunities. She also shared very helpful resources for our future classrooms. Dr. Gastile has made my first experience with UTeach truly memorable, one I will hold on to for a long time.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Learning and working with Dr. Gastile has been both eye-opening and deeply rewarding. Her unwavering support, expertise in STEM, and relentless drive for excellence have played a key role in shaping my academic and professional growth. Her mentorship is truly inspiring and will leave a lasting impact on my development as both an educator and a lifelong learner.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★