Dr. Russell is an Adjunct Instructor in the Chemistry Department at Eastern University, where she teaches *Introduction to Forensic Chemistry* at the undergraduate level. Before joining Eastern University, Dr. Russell devoted 40 years to public education, serving as a high school chemistry and biology teacher, administrator, and, ultimately, superintendent. The majority of her career was spent in the Perkiomen Valley School District in Collegeville, Pennsylvania, where she served as superintendent for nine years before retiring from the position in July 2026.
Throughout her career, Dr. Russell has been deeply committed to student-centered learning and evidence-based instructional practices. She remains dedicated to creating rigorous, engaging, and supportive learning environments that challenge students to think critically, develop confidence, and prepare for success in a rapidly changing world.
Dr. Russell’s background in the sciences also includes research examining the mechanisms of antiarrhythmic drugs beyond their electrophysiological effects. Her extensive experience as both an educator and educational leader, combined with her scientific background, informs her approach to teaching and her commitment to helping students connect scientific knowledge with real-world applications.
Education
Ed.D., Educational and Organizational Leadership, University of Pennsylvania
MEd, Educational Leadership, Lehigh University
MA, Biology, West Chester University
BA, Chemistry, DeSales University
Classes Taught
Introduction to Forensic Chemistry (elective)
Research Interests
Dr. Russell’s interests and professional training continue to focus on effectively engaging individuals in lifelong learning, particularly in the sciences. She is especially interested in fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and scientific literacy in learners of all ages and backgrounds. Throughout her career, she has sought to create meaningful learning experiences that encourage individuals to ask questions, investigate complex problems, and apply their knowledge to real-world situations.
Dr. Russell’s approach emphasizes helping learners develop the skills and confidence needed to evaluate evidence, think critically, solve problems, and adapt to new information in an increasingly complex and rapidly changing world. She remains committed to exploring effective instructional practices that make scientific learning relevant, meaningful and lifelong.
Publications
- INHIBITION OF CARDIAC CARNITINE PALMITOYL TRANSFERASE I ACTIVITY WITH ANTIARRHYTHMIC DRUGS, MAUREEN T. KNABB and BARBARA A. RUSSELL, Journal of the Pennsylvania Academy of Science, Vol. 69, No. 2 (October, 1995), pp. 49-52.