Dr. Michelle Chang's journey in academia highlights the power of education and the profound impact of dedicated mentorship. With a doctorate in organic chemistry from the University of Arizona and a background in drug design, Chang's career path initially seemed destined for laboratory research. However, her passion for teaching and her ability to connect with students led her down a different path—one defined by a commitment to fostering student success.
Despite initially aspiring to pursue a career in law, Chang discovered her love for organic chemistry during her undergraduate studies at Berkeley. Encouraged by her own academic experiences, she embraced teaching and mentorship roles early in her career, finding fulfillment in guiding students through their educational journeys. Embracing the close-knit community and intimate classroom environments of the community college setting, Chang found joy in getting to know each student personally and tailoring her teaching approach to meet their diverse needs.
Chang’s dedication to students has earned her recognition as the sole recipient of the 2024 Dale P. Parnell Distinguished Faculty Award in the Maricopa County Community College District and the only honoree from the state of Arizona. Awarded by the American Association of Community Colleges, this prestigious accolade celebrates her impact on student success and her unwavering commitment to excellence in teaching.
“For me, teaching is not just a profession but a daily commitment. If this award signifies recognition for that dedication, I’m honored to accept it,” said Chang.
Chang's approach to teaching is rooted in her belief in every student's potential for success. She views each student as an individual with unique strengths and challenges, and she strives to create an inclusive learning environment where everyone feels empowered to excel. By setting high expectations and providing the necessary support, Chang’s students have consistently achieved impressive pass rates in her classes, demonstrating that student success is not just a goal but a tangible outcome of effective teaching and mentorship.
"Michelle’s dedication to the field of chemistry and her unwavering commitment to her students is truly commendable," said Dr. Amy Diaz, President of GateWay Community College. "Her passion for teaching and nurturing students’ minds is evident in every interaction. It's no surprise that she's being recognized for her outstanding contributions. Michelle’s students emerge not only with a deep understanding of chemistry but also with invaluable skills that prepare them for success beyond the classroom."
Looking back on her career, Chang’s proudest moments stem from the success stories of her former students. From aspiring pharmacists to engineers, she delights in hearing from students who have pursued their dreams and achieved their goals. Each email, graduation announcement, or invitation to a white coat ceremony serves as a reminder of the lasting impact educators can have on their students' lives. She shares, “When a student comes back and lets me know, ‘Hey, I was successful,’ those are my proudest moments, and I get to see more of that the longer I teach.”
Looking ahead, Chang sees herself continuing her journey as an educator at GateWay, where she has found her true passion and purpose. While she acknowledges the allure of returning to research, she remains committed to the community college setting, where she can make a tangible difference in the lives of her students.
In Dr. Michelle Chang, GateWay has found not only an exceptional educator but also a dedicated advocate for student success. Her story serves as an inspiration to students and educators alike, reminding us of the profound impact of mentorship, dedication, and unwavering belief in the potential of every individual.