Megan Bertrand ‘12, Chief Academic Officer, Flying Classroom
Upon graduation, Megan Bertrand deferred veterinary medical school in order to teach 3rd-grade science in Detroit. Describing her students as brave and resilient, Bertrand noted, “They taught me the power of trust…[and] changed the trajectory of my personal and professional life and for that, I’m forever grateful.”
After earning a Master’s in Educational Leadership and Administration Bertrand was hired as the youngest Vice Principal in Miami-Dade County, FL and a few years later was tasked with opening a Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) high school. She explained, “Denison equipped me with an array of critical thinking, problem-solving and moral reasoning skills that have allowed me to adapt and lead in a culture of change.”
Bertrand recently joined Flying Classroom as Chief Academic Officer. Flying Classroom was founded by National Geographic Explorer Captain Barrington Irving. In 2007, Irving set a record for being the youngest person and first Black pilot to fly solo around the world. His team films expeditions and creates STEM content for K-12 students across the country. Bertrand stated, “I’m surrounded by dynamic thinkers and together we make instructional decisions that inspire and impact thousands of students nationwide. I’m even able to incorporate my love for science and animals through the different expeditions we have been filming!” She is working with Denison leaders to give current students an opportunity to apply and join Flying Classroom’s team as virtual instructors. Bertrand shares some advice for current students: “take calculated risks, embrace uncertainty and always celebrate small wins.”
