|
|
| ||
|
|
September STAR Cheryl Kendricks manages the Biology Department's Media Kitchen. It's a demanding position, but it's not quite what those unacquainted with the life sciences might think. A media kitchen is where bacterial cultures and chemicals are prepared for use in microbiology and molecular biology courses. Kendricks supervises two technicians who prepare all the materials. Chemicals -- reagents and solutions -- have to be poured into the appropriate-sized containers in exact amounts. Cultures take 24-48 hours to grow, so they need to be prepared well in advance. And everything -- all plates, flasks, beakers and instruments -- has to be sterilized in very hot steam baths. "As the manager of our Media Kitchen, she uses her organizational and problem-solving skills to deal with the many challenges of running a complex operation out of temporary facilities in the biology trailers north of Hensill Hall," said John Hafernik, chair of biology. "She has had to deal with failing equipment, overheating rooms and staff shortages. It is a testimony to her efforts that during the Hensill Hall remodeling project our students in microbiology and molecular biology continue to have the rich experience in their laboratory courses that they deserve." Although Kendricks' work is mainly in the Media Kitchen, she enjoys feeling like an integral part of the educational process. "I like the fact that it helps the students," she said. "That's the most fulfilling part -- being a part of that process." And despite the difficulties brought on by the Hensill Hall remodel, Kendricks likes the general campus environment. "I love the campus here," she said. "It's a really beautiful campus." Kendricks has worked on campus in the Media Kitchen for five years. She describes herself as a "book junkie" and reads everything from biographies and other nonfiction titles to science fiction. Please join us in congratulating Cheryl and thank her for making such a difference. As the STAR of the Month, Kendricks will enjoy four free lunches on campus, a free parking pass or equivalent in one month's public transportation costs, and more. She will also be eligible for the STAR of the Year award.
| |
|
| ||
 |
Home
Search
Need Help?
1600 Holloway Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94132 (415) 338-1111 | |