Fischer, Dani

Hello College Community!

My name is Dani, and I have taught biology here at Waubonsee since August of 2006. Prior to my time at Waubonsee, I graduated high school from the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (in Aurora, IL) in 1998. After spending three semesters at Bucknell University (as a dual math and biology major), I transferred to Loyola University Chicago to study limnology. I earned my Bachelors of Science in biology degree (Magna Cum Laude) at Loyola University, Chicago. While there, I did undergraduate research with Dr. Jan Savitz on smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu) in Lake Michigan and participated as an intern at the Field Museum in the Milli-PEET project. I also was employed as a work-study student in the Biology Department there. 

After Loyola, I got a job (through an instructor I had at Loyola, Dr. Martin Berg) through the US Fish and Wildlife Service at Kealia Pond bird refuge on Maui, HI. Despite being at a bird sanctuary, the position focused on controlling midge fly emergence. Once I had gained experience working with arthropods, I decided to pursue a Ph.D. in entomology. After conducting field research on the fly larvae found in the waterfalls of the national parks of northern Thailand, I discovered that neither field biology, nor bench work was my passion. I transferred to the Bohart Museum of Entomology, and earned my Masters in Science (with distinction) in entomology, by oral exam. After graduation, I worked as the Coordinator of Education and Outreach at the museum, teaching students from age 5-85, including teaching undergraduate and graduate coursework at the University.

From there, I returned to Illinois, and was hired as an adjunct instructor at both Rock Valley College, and Waubonsee. The next year, I was hired full-time, and the rest is history!

Outside of class, I am lucky enough to have had the opportunity to travel extensively. I have 13 states I still have to sleep-over in here in the US, and have traveled to Canada, Mexico, across the Caribbean, Belize, England, Spain, France, Germany, Tanzania, India, Japan, Australia, and Papua New Guinea. In both Belize and Tanzania, I learned to teach students abroad. I currently speak to young students and adults in India weekly, to help them perfect their English speaking.

Still a kid at heart, I enjoy observing insects, and exploring freshwater environments. In 2024 (for the first time), I read 100 books (over 32,000 pages)! I live in Elburn, Illinois, with my husband, two dogs and two cats. 

Should you have any questions for or about me, don't hesitate to reach out. I am excited to meet you.

Dani

Classes I have taught in the past:

• At Rock Valley:
  • Human Biology
• At Waubonsee:
  • BIO120--Principles of Biology I (focusing on cell and molecular biology)
  • SUS101--Introduction to Sustainability
  • Sustainability of Water

Current Classes:

• BIO100--Introduction to Biology (3.0 hrs./lecture)--GENERAL EDUCATION COURSE
• BIO101--Introduction to Biology Laboratory (1.0 hr./lab)--GENERAL EDUCATION COURSE
• BIO110--Introduction to Environmental Biology (3.0 hrs./lecture)--GENERAL EDUCATION COURSE
• BIO111--Introduction to Environmental Biology Lab (1.0 hr./lab)--GENERAL EDUCATION COURSE
• BIO122--Principles of Biology II (4.0 hrs./lecture and lab)--GENERAL EDUCATION COURSE

Science Building 116, Sugar Grove Campus

• M--11:15am-12:30pm
• T--9:45-11:00am
• W--11:15am-12:30pm
• R--9:45am-11:00am

Feel free to stop by!

I am an advisor for the following clubs:

• Bass Fishing Club
• The National Society of Leadership and Success
• Science Club
• Women's Wellness Club

Campus Committees:

• Data Squad (Achieving the Dream)
• Scholarship
• Student Conduct Board

• Faculty Council Senator
• Faculty Council Curriculum and Environmental Committee Chair

Professional Organization:

• Illinois Association of Community College Biology (Current Treasurer)