Shari
Bookstaff, M.A.
Biology Professor
Skyline College
Building 7, 7217
(650) 738-4250 |
Click
on the photo for information about humpback whales!
Humpback whale, Hawaii, 2002
Photo©Snitovsky 2002 |
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Biography
I am originally from Milwaukee, Wisconsin,
and I have been fascinated by marine life since childhood. Dolphins, whales,
fish, starfish and sea horses all caught my attention. Lake Michigan,
however, does not have a large population of dolphins and whales. My interest
in marine life was supported through trips to the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago
and Cousteau Specials on TV. I attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison
and earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Zoology. After graduation,
I moved to San Francisco and began working on my Master's degree at San
Francisco State University. I earned my Master of Arts degree in Marine
Biology where I did some research and teaching. I realized that I enjoyed
teaching more than research and looked for teaching jobs. I began teaching
at Skyline College in 1990. I recently served as naturalist on a Royal
Caribbean Cruise to Alaska. Watching humpback whales lunge for fish and
killer whales chase dolphins were a couple of the nature highlights! I
served asthe President of a local chapter of a whale and dolphin conservation
organization, the American Cetacean Society.
We offer lectures, education programs and student research grants.
I have two wonderful children, love to take pictures and I am an avid
sports fan. All of the photos that appear on my website are my own unless
otherwise noted.
In July of 2006,
the removal of a benign brain tumor left me with some challenges such
as lack of coordination, impaired sensations, weakness, and distorted
speech. Although these physical problems make life challenging, I am teaching
again and I've written a book about my medical dramas!
My book, "When
Life Throws You Lemons...Make Cranberry Juice!" offers my take
on life's struggles, dealing with challenges, and the medical profession.
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