Yung Romano

Dover, FL | 7-12, Science, 2021

What motivates you to contribute to excellence in STEM teaching?

I’m motivated to contribute to excellence in STEM teaching by the many students I’ve inspired to pursue careers in the medical field. Their continued passion for research and healthcare fuels my commitment. Seeing them thrive—whether entering medical school or engaging in scientific discovery—drives me to create engaging, rigorous learning environments that connect classroom knowledge to real-world impact, helping shape the next generation of medical innovators.

What has been the most transformative moment that affirmed your impact on STEM education?

The most transformative moment that affirmed my impact on STEM education was when former students reached out to thank me for creating a classroom environment where they felt safe, supported, and inspired to truly appreciate and love science. Many shared that my teaching sparked a lasting passion for STEM, with some now pursuing careers in medicine and research. Hearing how I helped build their confidence and curiosity reminded me that meaningful, engaging instruction can ignite lifelong interest and transform futures. Witnessing their continued success and enthusiasm reaffirmed why I teach—to empower students, cultivate their potential, and contribute to the growth of future scientists, researchers, and medical professionals.

Using your platform as a Presidential Awardee, how do you hope to advance our nation in STEM?

As a PAEMST awardee, I aim to advance STEM in the U.S. by fostering inclusive, inquiry-driven learning that empowers all students to see themselves as scientists and problem-solvers. I will mentor fellow educators, share innovative practices, and advocate for equitable STEM access. Through collaboration, leadership, and community engagement, I hope to inspire a diverse generation of learners to shape the future through STEM.

Biography

Yung Thi Romano has been an educator for 19 years and currently teaches freshman International Baccalaureate (IB) biology students at Strawberry Crest High School in Hillsborough County, Florida. Previously, she served as the IB Diploma Programme Coordinator at Braulio Alonso High School and taught IB Biology at Strawberry Crest for six years—five of which saw a 100% pass rate on the IB Biology exam. She also served as the Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) advisor during that time. Yung has taught across multiple schools in the Hillsborough County School District, including George M. Steinbrenner High School and C. Leon King High School, where she led as Science Department Chair. She began her teaching career at Booker T. Washington Magnet High School in Montgomery, Alabama, teaching biology, anatomy and physiology, and environmental science. It was there she earned her recognition as the 2010 Alabama State Teacher of the Year. Beyond the classroom, Yung is a nationally recognized teacher leader. Her involvement includes the National Network of State Teachers of the Year, the Culture Foundation, VOYA Unsung Heroes, the NEA Foundation’s STEM Advisory Committee, Facebook Live/Teachers Leading partnership, the Center for Curriculum Redesign, and numerous keynote and panel engagements nationwide. Her mission extends beyond academic success; Yung is driven by a passion to show students how education can transform lives—from adversity to empowerment—and to inspire them to serve their communities. She earned her B.S., summa cum laude, in secondary education/biology and her M.Ed. from Auburn University Montgomery.

High-resolution version of the teacher profile photograph

The views expressed in awardee profiles are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of NSF or the PAEMST program.