Jenelle Benson

Dr. Jenelle Benson is an experienced STEM educator with more than 30 years of teaching across secondary and tertiary education in the United States and Australia. She began her career in California in 1993 after earning a Bachelor of Science in Biology with a minor in Chemistry and has taught a wide range of subjects, including Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Environmental Science, Anatomy and Physiology, Algebra, Geometry, and senior mathematics. While teaching, she completed a Master of Education in Environmental Science, a Doctorate in Educational Leadership, and an Administrative Services Credential. After relocating to Australia in 2007, she served as Lead Vocational Teacher at Queensland TAFE for over a decade before joining Southern Cross University as an Academic Practice Lecturer, where she specialised in mathematics and science support, online learning, and improving student engagement and success. She continues her research as an Adjunct Lecturer within the Faculty of Science and Engineering.

In addition to her extensive teaching experience, Dr. Benson has published research on online education, student success, STEM education, and the use of Generative AI in education. She also collaborates with the Gnibi College of Indigenous Peoples, contributing to research and assessment focused on Indigenous cultural practices and STEM education. In early 2024, she returned to the United States to care for her critically ill father. Having now concluded her family's estate responsibilities, she has continued her teaching career in the United States, bringing with her a wealth of international experience, academic leadership, research expertise, and a longstanding commitment to excellence in STEM education.