Many staff and students around our campus call her Science Sara. She is the science instructional specialist and a house parent for Aspen House. Sara Benge has invested years in teaching and working with youth, including a stint in the Peace Corps in rural Morocco, teaching ESL at Horizon Science Academy in Columbus, Ohio.
She then taught science at a nature center in New Hampshire. In addition, Sara has led international service and adventure trips for high school students with The Road Less Traveled.
Below, we quiz this science wiz on her life before Eagle Rock, her objectives here and some other fun trivial factoids:
Eagle Rock: What year did you graduate from college, what college did you attend, and what did you major and minor in?
Sara Benge: I graduated from Willamette University in Salem, Ore., in 2009. I studied biology and exercise physiology.
ER: What was it that attracted you to Eagle Rock?
SB: I was most attracted to Eagle Rock’s mission to reengage the disengaged. I was excited to be a part of an intentional, residential community that allows young people to explore their authentic selves.
ER: When you’re not working, what do you like to do in your spare time?
SB: Like many Coloradans, I am an avid adventurer. I enjoy hiking, climbing, biking, and just being in the mountains. When not exploring the outdoor world, you can find me with a good book, a crossword puzzle, or spending quality time with the people I love.
ER: What reality TV should you be on and why would you win or be kicked off?
SB: Interesting question. I don’t know many reality TV shows, but I think it would be pretty rad to be on The Amazing Race. I would win only if my competitive brother could be my partner.
ER: What’s your all-time favorite Eagle Rock success story?
SB: That would be any time that students push their comfort zones in the classroom to be leaders of their own learning and redefine their narrative of success.
ER: What’s one thing not many people know about you?
SB: I grew up showing dairy goats and horses in a 4-H Club.