After earning my Ph.D. degree from Rensselaer (RPI) and working as a science advisor in Washington, D.C., I met my future husband Matt Hyland, a proud Connetquot graduate, while serving in the U.S. Air Force. While he served our country around the world, Long Island became our growing family’s home base and eventually our permanent home.

Now as an active volunteer and Bayport-Blue Point mom, I lead Pack 130 Cub Scouts, visit classrooms to demonstrate science in action, and devote time to the PTA, the School Improvement Team, and placing flags for 9/11 at our firehouse.