“I could have received the academics at any number of institutions, but NNU met me at a place where I needed nurturing coupled with the academic rigor all the while being trained to be successful in life after NNU,” remarked Dr. Carolyn A. Fitch.

Since her college days, Dr. Fitch has compiled an impressive resume: BS in Physics, Ph.D. in Biophysics, research scientist at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center Laboratory for Extraterrestrial Physics, researcher and professor at Johns Hopkins University and the Naval Academy, just to name a few of her accomplishments.

Her passion is people, and, throughout her career, she has always kept relationships at the forefront of everything. In 2008, Fitch began her teaching career at Johns Hopkins University in the Department of Biophysics, and she is currently working to develop new teaching models for undergraduates. She wants to empower students who are interested in biophysics and help them succeed by learning science fundamentals and participating in research-based projects.

“[I am working to] enable students to understand the fundamentals of our discipline in a rigorous but fun environment. I hope my students look back fondly on their experience here at Hopkins in the same light as I do NNU,” explained Fitch.

During her years as an undergrad, Fitch found the small class sizes and connections with her professors at NNU to be exactly what she needed. It was a place where she was able to grow spiritually and also pushed academically.

“NNU engages and affects all domains of life—intellectual, social, physical and spiritual. It has been one of the great joys of my life to see Carolyn Fitch’s growth in each of these areas, both during her four years as a student at NNU (then NNC) and now through her exemplary career of achievement at Johns Hopkins University,” said Dr. Darrell Marks, Professor Emeritus of Physics.

Dr. Carolyn A. Fitch is an award-winning professor, lecturer and researcher, earning her the 2017 Alumni Professional Achievement Award.