Amanda Yannett’s academic journey and professional career have followed an inspiring path of dedication to science, education, and social advocacy. Originally from Westchester County, New York, Yannett has built a multifaceted career marked by academic excellence, hands-on research, and a commitment to social change.
Yannett began her undergraduate studies at Colorado State University for their pre-veterinary science program but later transferred to William & Mary after her freshman year, where she studied biology and psychology. At William & Mary, Yannett served in many leadership roles, such as the president of a sexual violence advocacy organization, the Secretary of College Policy & Student Rights for the entire student body, the vice president of the Pre-Veterinary Medicine Club, and several other positions. Despite a heavy extracurricular and academic load, she graduated Magna Cum Laude. Her leadership skills and academic success earned her an invitation into Omicron Delta Kappa, the national leadership honor society.
Yannett‘s advocacy work led her to consider teaching in a high-need area, even though her advisor was encouraging her to apply to medical school. In fact, Teach for America reached out to try to recruit her after hearing about her work throughout her college years. She became a Noyce Scholar with the National Science Foundation. The Noyce Scholar program required additional graduate courses while earning a Master’s in Education at William & Mary. She specialized in Curriculum and Instruction for Secondary Science and earned a perfect 4.0 GPA.
Her advocacy has extended into her professional life as an advisor to Stamford High School’s “Supporting Survivors Club,” which raises awareness about domestic and sexual violence. In addition, she advises the Class of 2025, the Pre-Health Club, and Cancer Kids First, mentoring students in leadership roles while also bringing awareness to health and medical issues. Yannett also coaches softball, soccer, unified basketball, and waterskiing/wakeboarding.
Amanda Yannett inspires her students to explore global issues and scientific questions. This past summer, she became a Fund for Teachers fellow, which allowed her to travel to Peru. She collected data while living in the Amazon Rainforest and backpacking the Andes Mountains. She investigated biodiversity and engaged with indigenous communities in order to better understand the intersection of cultural diversity and environmental issues.
Yannett’s work in other countries includes three trips to Africa, where she conducted wildlife research, focused on conservation efforts, and worked on sustainability projects focused on food security and education for low-income communities. In addition, she spent two weeks in Costa Rica exploring healthcare in low-income communities and conflict resolution strategies. Her research in diverse environments, plus her experience with National Geographic to Antarctica, allows her to incorporate real-world examples into her teaching. At just 15 years old, she broke the National Geographic Explorer ship’s record for the longest time spent in the cold waters of the Southern Ocean, lasting two minutes and ten seconds. If that wasn’t enough, Yannett recently became a certified EMT and volunteers her time at Larchmont Volunteer Ambulance Corps.
Amanda Yannett is a dedicated teacher, mentor, and advocate who is able to combine her love for science, education, and helping others. With her global research experience, leadership roles, and passion for inspiring students, she encourages students to explore important issues and make a positive impact both inside and outside of school.