Hello science explorers! My name is Mr. Steve Rhoades and I am looking forward to learning with you. I am a graduate of Kutztown University where I have received a BS in Earth and Space Science and General Science, a Master's Degree in Curriculum and Instruction, and my K-12 Principal Certification.

I taught science for over 22 years and astronomy was always one of my favorite areas of study. When I am not working with teachers at Wilson, I enjoy spending time with my family playing music, camping, working out, or playing video games. I can't wait to see what we will create together this summer!

Mr. Adam Molis
Seventh Grade Science Teacher
Wilson School District

Hello science explorers! My name is Mr. Adam Molis and I can't wait to be joining you on this learning adventure. I graduated from Kutztown University where I received a BS in Elementary Education with a focus in Science and went on to complete my qualifications in math and science education for 7-12 grade.

I began teaching 5th grade science and math in South West Philadelphia. I am currently in my twelfth year of teaching with the Wilson School District in West Lawn as a seventh grade science teacher.

Besides science, my other passions are spending time with my wife Melissa and five year old daughter Grace. We love our time outside camping, hiking, fishing, woodworking, and tending to our chickens and turkeys. I eagerly await our chance to meet and learn some awesome science together this summer!

Lauren Murphy
Kutztown University of Pennsylvania Graduate

My name is Lauren Murphy. I recently graduated from Kutztown University with a bachelor's degree in astrophysics where I had the opportunity to be part of the discovery of four exoplanets.

I am currently working with a research group that studies Algol-type interacting star systems. Besides astronomy I enjoy spending time in nature, and creating art.

My name is Aditi Mangal, and I am very excited to join the talented team that works behind-the-scenes of the STEM Youth Explorer Academy.

I would love to take this moment to share a little bit more about myself! I currently attend Drexel University, studying biological sciences with provisional acceptance into the Drexel College of Medicine. My values align with those of Rotary, as both selfless service and leadership have played a big role in my ideals thus far, and hopefully, will continue to do so into the future. This is apparent in the organizations I have associated myself with. Currently, I am involved on the Dean’s Advisory Committee and am a Student Ambassador, serving as the bridge between current and new students. I am also the Co-President of MedLife, an organization that has worldwide outreach to set up health camps in areas that don’t have such resources. I also continue to remain connected with the Red Cross, an organization that I have been with for the last six years, coordinating blood drives and engaging in Disaster Response.

I was born and raised in Phoenixville, PA, with my younger brother and my parents. I attended Spring-Ford High School. In my senior year of high school, I was selected to attend the United States Senate Youth Program, a national and prestigious program that accepted only two students per state on the basis of academics, leadership, and service. There, I interacted with our country’s prominent leaders including Mr. President, Supreme Court Justice Sotomayor, the Director of National Intelligence, and members of the Secretary. I personally asked them questions, and I truly believe their words will resonate with me as I engage in endeavors centric to my values. During high school, I was also the Student Representative to the School Board, representing the voices of nearly 12,000 students throughout the district in board meetings. I also founded my Non-Profit, InstantSmile, during the pandemic, connecting students who were interested in the sciences with one another, providing tutoring to underprivileged students.