Shobita Mampilly

Lost & Found Archival Research Fellow

Shobita Mampilly is a science educator and poet, developing engaged science curricula through spirituality and environmental activism. The power of poetry in science education activates agency in her classrooms from Bangalore to The Bronx. Currently in her 5th year of Doctoral Studies in Urban Education at CUNY’s Graduate Center her research includes developing pathways for young scholars to enter fields of health and environmental science undergraduate programs, and building networks for success in STEM matriculation from within and beyond highschool classrooms. Her dissertation research focuses on Engaged Science through Spirituality and Activism, inspired by the education theory and manifestations of poet Rabindranath Tagore. Through The Anonymous Indian Trust in Bangalore India, Shobita collaborates with local scientists and artists to publish and deliver the Trashonomics curriculum in communities seeking to transform dying ecosystems to thriving, sustainable biomes. She is a lifetime member of Etheridge Knight’s Free Peoples Poetry Workshop, inspired by EK’s love for language and liberty.

Shobita holds a BS degree in Biology from Indiana University, and a MA in Secondary Science Education from Columbia University. She has an MFA in Creative Writing/Poetry from The New School University. Shobita presents her unique approach to science education globally, through her workshop,“Teaching Social Justice through Engaged Science,” presented at National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) People of Color Conference.