Name:  Christa Spears
Position: Geology Professor
Years with LSC-University Park:  Six

Dr. Christa Spears is originally from New Jersey and received a Bachelor of Science in Geology from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. While there, Spears performed her undergraduate research and attended field camp in the western U.S. via the University of Michigan. After graduation, she ventured to California to accept a research scientist position at the University of California, Santa Cruz. After two years on the West Coast, she attended Boston University, earning a Ph.D. in Earth Sciences. During this time, she sailed on two Ocean Drilling Program cruises, analyzing marine sediments to better understand past climates and learning about climate systems, oceanography, and geochemistry. With her doctoral degree complete, she worked for ExxonMobil in Houston as an exploration geologist. This position took her around the world, exploring for oil and gas in politically and economically-challenged environments. Her responsibilities included drilling on- and offshore wells, working with assets producing conventional and unconventional resources, and negotiating the terms for commercial transactions. While ExxonMobil offered her a fun and exciting career, her true passion is teaching. So, when her son passed away, she transitioned back to academia via Lone Star College. 

How did you arrive at LSC-University Park?
I believe I was in the right place at the right time. LSC-University Park was hiring adjuncts, and I was looking to transition back into academia. One year later, I accepted a full-time position.

What does Women's History Month mean to you?
It's a designated time to remember, honor and celebrate all those women who have fought for women's rights. 

Why is it important that we celebrate women's history?
It is important to celebrate and to remember from where women came, appreciate the rights women deserve, and honor those who advocated for equality.

Who has been a big female influence or role model in your life?
I didn't have a female role model in my young life. Many times, the challenges I faced in life were because of bad influences from other women – women telling me "it's not your position," or "you're not good enough," or "but you're a young lady." Expressions like these pushed me to overcome them. It wasn't until much later in life that I found encouraging and supportive women. This support is why I feel strongly about young women celebrating and appreciating women's history.

Describe the importance of pursuing education as you were growing up?
As a granddaughter of an Italian immigrant, I didn't have any other option. Learning and education were always a priority in my upbringing. I dedicated my doctoral thesis to my grandfather.

What challenges have you overcome?  

• Being an athlete and not being permitted to compete with the boys
• Getting accepted into a competitive graduate program
• Not being heard or respected in boardroom decisions
• Childhood cancer and the death of my 17–month old son
• Making a drastic change in career and lifestyle

 
What is your message for the women of LSC-University Park?
YOU hold the power of your future. Once you make a decision, MAKE it the RIGHT decision.

What is your six-word story (example: You commit. We commit. You graduate.)? 
Be you, do you, for you.