Women’s History Month Q&A with Patrice Brock
Patrice Brock is in her 8th year as a science teacher at Central Catholic High School. Patrice has taught a variety of science classes during her time on Cherry Street, concentrating in AP Biology, AP Environmental Science, and Anatomy. In addition to teaching, she is the head coach for the CCHS girls’ lacrosse team and advisor for IrishTHON.
Born in Cleveland, Patrice earned her bachelor’s degree in biochemistry from Northwestern University and a master’s degree in secondary science education from The University of Toledo.
Following graduation from Northwestern, Patrice ran a bio-monitoring lab for a large municipality north of Chicago for six years. After having three children and moving back to Ohio, she worked part-time in children's ministry, then as a full-time substitute teacher. Discovering her love for teaching motivated Patrice to find a master's program that would allow her to have her own class room. Patrice was blessed to receive a Woodrow Wilson Teaching Fellowship at UToledo.
Patrice is blessed with three children - Nick, Ally, and Julie - and three grandchildren - Harlow, Teagan and Declan.
Teaching at Central Catholic has allowed Patrice to combine her love of teaching with her passion for ministry.
What advice would you give to women in your respective field?
Women in science should realize the very special place they have in this ever-growing field. While it may not always be easy to navigate this male-dominated career path, keep showing up! Science is a field that needs different perspectives in order to fulfill its role in our society, which is to make life as a human community a little better every day. Women bring some of those essential perspectives, enhancing ideas that have already been tested and launching research into areas we can't even imagine yet.
Tell us about a woman you look up to & why.
It is hard to narrow it down to one woman. I have great admiration for all women who face seemingly insurmountable challenges, but still have the strength to get up every day and contribute to their communities, fighting to make our world a better place. I have several examples of these women in my own life, and I see them in so many people I encounter every day.
If you could pick any historical female to have dinner with, who would it be and why?
I would love to sit down and talk with Malala Yousafzai. At the age of 25, she has done so much to further access to education for girls around the world. Although she grew up in a country that banned the education of young women, she had the courage to stand up against this inequality. I would ask what keeps her going amidst personal attacks and constant threats. I would thank her for opening the door of opportunity for millions of girls who dream of changing the world.
What does Women’s History Month mean to you?
Women's History Month gives us the time to explore and appreciate the unique roles women play in our world. It also allows us the space to show gratitude for all the achievements made by women. Finally, recognizing the importance of women in our society provides hope and encouragement to the next generation of young women.
What do you appreciate most about Central Catholic High School?
I am most appreciative of the adventurous spirit and supportive environment I see everyday here on Cherry Street!!! Students are encouraged to start new activities, outreaches, clubs, and events. They are given the tools to lead and the freedom to do so. I have seen students plan and run events, such as IrishTHON and our annual retreats. These hands-on leadership experiences will serve them well as they take their gifts and talents out into the world. I like to think we are developing the next generation of great leaders, humanitarians, and innovators.
