LHS Teacher Selected As 2019 CITGO Nautilus Ambassador

LEMONT, IL — In recognition of his leadership in STEM education, Lemont High School teacher and science department chair Scott Collins, was selected as one of four 2019 CITGO Nautilus Ambassadors who embarked on a four-day sea voyage offshore of Los Angeles on May 9, CITGO said.

The Nautilus Ambassador Program invites teachers aboard the research vessel E/V Nautilus to learn about ocean science, according to a release. The program is co-funded by CITGO and the Ocean Exploration Trust, a nonprofit founded by renowned explorer Dr. Robert Ballard to support ocean exploration.

Collins and the other ambassadors joined the Corps of Exploration aboard E/V Nautilus as they explored ancient submerged shorelines and caves on Osborn Bank near the Channel Islands in the eastern Pacific Ocean.

In addition to his role as an educator, Collins has also been a champion for the Heritage Quarries Restoration Project in Lemont and was pivotal in launching the CITGO Innovation Academy at Lemont High School, CITGO said. According to Collins, being a part of the dedicated team onboard was an incredible experience.

“We came from different locations and backgrounds, but we all shared a common love for science and research,” said Collins.

While onboard, Collins had the opportunity to communicate directly with students and teachers at Lemont High School via a live ship-to-shore video interaction. He shared about the Corps of Exploration team’s use of the ROV Hercules to examine ancient caves near the Channel Islands and answered questions about life onboard the ship.

Vice President and General Manager of the CITGO Lemont Refinery Dennis Willig said being able to serve the local community by further equipping teachers is truly an honor.

“I’m sure Scott has returned to his role at Lemont High School with many new ideas, resources and insights to share with his students and peers from this great adventure. CITGO is proud to be part of this learning experience for both Scott and the school. STEM education opportunities like this one opens a whole new world of opportunities for everyone involved,” said Willig.