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Dr. Miller-RayPromoting STREAM Makerspace Experiences
(Science,Technology, Reading, the Arts, and Mathematics) |
Imagine~ Invent ~ Inspire
Advancing STEM Literacy, AI Innovation, and Inclusive Learning Across the Borderlands and Beyond
Dr. Jennifer Miller-Ray is a cognitive scientist and Associate Professor of Education at Sul Ross State University, specializing in STEM literacy, AI in education, and Universal Design for Learning (UDL). Her research bridges formal and informal learning through makerspace-based, project-driven literacy experiences that connect students’ curiosity to real-world scientific and engineering practices. She has designed innovative STEM literacy and makerspace programs for the Perot Museum, Kennedy Space Center, NASA STEM Camps, Indigenous Education Institute, public libraries, and more than 30 public schools across Texas. Through NASA MMS outreach and mobile makerspace initiatives, Dr. Miller-Ray developed open online courses that bring authentic inquiry and creativity into classrooms worldwide. As Principal Investigator for the NSF-funded Noyce Scholars en la Frontera program, she leads research that prepares future STEM teachers to integrate AI and data-driven learning into high-need rural and borderland schools. She also directs the La Frontera STEM Lab, a mobile makerspace partnership with the Science Mill Museum, and serves as Co-PI for the NSF Total Eclipses in the Heart of Texas project, which engages students and educators in solar-eclipse citizen-science research. Her outreach has been recognized through funding from NASA, the American Astronomical Society, and the National Science Foundation, and featured in UNT Research Magazine for its innovative impact.
Dr. Miller-Ray’s dedication to teaching excellence has been honored with the Sul Ross State University Outstanding Teacher Award (2023), nomination for the Piper Professor Award (2024), and the Texas State University System Regents’ Teacher Award (2024). Beyond research, she mentors future educators through the Texas State Teachers Aspiring Educators Club and campus ministry outreach, embodying her belief that education transforms communities through creativity, curiosity, and human connection.
🌞 Featured Research & Innovation Projects
Solar Eclipse Citizen Science Education Project Role: Co–Principal Investigator, UTSA NSF Total Eclipses in the Heart of Texas
Dr. Miller-Ray leads education research and outreach that connect students, teachers, and communities across the U.S.–Mexico border through hands-on citizen-science experiences during the 2023–2024 total solar eclipses. Supported by the American Astronomical Society and National Science Foundation, her work advances STEM literacy and scientific identity development through data collection, storytelling, and cross-cultural collaboration.
Learn more ›
Noyce Scholars en la Frontera Role: Principal Investigator, NSF Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program (Track 1)
This National Science Foundation–funded initiative prepares and supports STEM teacher candidates to serve in rural and high-need schools throughout West Texas and the borderlands. Under Dr. Miller-Ray’s leadership, the program integrates AI literacy, Universal Design for Learning, and culturally responsive teaching into teacher preparation — empowering the next generation of STEM educators.
Project Overview ›
La Frontera STEM Lab Role: Director and Founder
The La Frontera STEM Lab is a mobile makerspace partnership between Sul Ross State University and the Science Mill Museum designed to bring hands-on STEM learning directly to schools, libraries, and community events across rural Texas. Through this traveling lab, Dr. Miller-Ray’s team implements project-based learning, engineering design challenges, and interdisciplinary literacy activities that make science tangible for learners of all ages.
Visit the Lab ›
AI Literacy, Open Education Resources in Education & Universal Design for Learning (UDL)Role: Program Director, M.Ed. in Educational Instructional Technology
Dr. Miller-Ray explores the integration of artificial intelligence tools in teacher education to enhance accessibility, personalization, and learner agency. Her research emphasizes ethical use of AI, equitable access, and innovative feedback systems grounded in UDL principles — ensuring that technology amplifies, rather than replaces, the human connection at the heart of learning.
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GET LIT! Podcast & STEM Literacy Series Role: Creator and Host
Through the GET LIT! podcast, Dr. Miller-Ray spotlights educators, Noyce Scholars, and research partners who are shaping the future of AI-enhanced literacy and STEM education. Each episode shares stories of innovation, creativity, and connection — inspiring educators to design learning that sparks curiosity and equity across communities.
Listen to Episodes ›
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