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CU Science Outreach Center Assistant Director
Cathy Brooks holds a B.S. degree with a double major in chemistry and biology from Berry College as well as a M.E. degree in science education (grades 6-12) from the University of Georgia. While at UGA, Cathy worked in a research lab performing protein purification from bioluminescent marine bacteria. Cathy taught eighth-grade science in addition to being the lead teacher for chemistry at the Marist School in Atlanta, Georgia. She has also taught biology and chemistry labs for the College of Charleston, Old Dominion University, and Truett McConnell University. Outside the classroom, Cathy enjoys volunteer work, gardening, and hiking in the mountains with her husband.
Executive Director of Science Outreach
Renée Lyons earned her Ph.D. in curriculum and instruction of science education from Clemson University in 2017. She taught K–12 science for eight years, both internationally and in Upstate South Carolina, and later served as the high school science lead for the South Carolina Department of Education. In her current role as Director of the Science Outreach Center, Renée designs and leads STEM programming for K–12 youth that sparks curiosity, introduces students to STEM careers, and provides hands-on experiences with scientific tools and technology they may not encounter in their classrooms. She develops labs and activities aligned with South Carolina’s state science standards, ensuring Science Outreach Center programming complements and supports the work of K–12 teachers across the state. Drawing on her classroom and state-level leadership experience, she also provides professional development for teachers, modeling lessons and strategies that help educators successfully implement the three-dimensional science standards in their own classrooms.
CU Science Outreach Center Program Coordinator
Hello! I’m Donna Buss, and I’m delighted to serve as the Program Coordinator for the Clemson University Science Outreach Center. Let me share a bit about my journey and passion. I began at Clemson University Summer Scholars in 2020, and since then, I’ve been wholeheartedly dedicated to fostering scientific curiosity and engagement for youth. I joined the Science Outreach Center in 2024. As a master’s graduate in Clemson University Youth Development Leadership, I bring a wealth of experience to this role. My professional journey has been varied—I’ve worn many hats! From being a camp counselor to a public-school teacher, a trainer, a preschool director, and an office manager, I’ve immersed myself in various educational settings. But above all, I cherish my role as a family member. Speaking of family, I’m a proud parent of two wonderful girls—Harper and Ainsley. And my husband, Michael, has been my partner in life’s adventures for over 30 years! Life has a way of leading us to unexpected places, and I’m thrilled that it guided me to Clemson. The Science Outreach Center here is brimming with exciting opportunities, and I can’t wait to explore them alongside you all.
CU Science Outreach Center STEM Specialist
Amy Smith is a native Clemsonian who earned her Master’s in the Art of Teaching from Anderson University. She taught at AJ Whittenberg School of Engineering in Greenville County, 5th grade science & social studies at Liberty Elementary in Pickens County, and 5th-8th grades: Zoology, Human Body, and Physical Science for a local homeschool co-op. Amy has a passion for making science and engineering come alive for students and refuses to be boring and represent science well. She is unapologetically addicted to Legos and Dr. Pepper, loves her family, and is very excited to be in her dream job at Clemson!
Our Mission, Vision & Goals
The Clemson University Science Outreach Center fosters curiosity, ignites passion, and cultivates scientific literacy. Through dynamic hands-on experiences, engaging discussions, and collaborative partnerships, we empower learners of all ages to explore the wonders of science.
At the Clemson University Science Outreach Center, we believe that true learning happens when we step outside our comfort zones. Just as a seedling pushes through the soil to reach the sunlight, growth occurs when we embrace discomfort. We encourage learners of all ages to explore the wonders of science, not only in the safety of familiar spaces, but also in the uncharted territory of the ‘challenge zone.’ It’s in this space that resilience is built, creativity flourishes, and new horizons unfold.
The Clemson University Science Outreach Center’s vision is to be a guiding light of scientific curiosity, seamlessly connecting science with the vibrant communities we inhabit. We aim to address real-world challenges through scientific inquiry and ignite inspiration, fostering a future where everyone embraces their inner scientist regardless of age or background.
Expand Reach: Increase participation in science programs by 20% by 2029.
Comprehensive Engagement: Collaborate with under-resourced communities to ensure ease of access.
Innovative Offerings: Introduce new STEM experiences.
Educator Support: Enhance professional development opportunities for classroom teachers.
Impact Measurement: Regularly assess the impact of our programs through feedback and metrics.