---
title: Remembering Sally Crissman
description: Remembering Sally Crissman, a beloved TERC colleague and science education leader whose work inspired generations of educators and students. Read about her lasting impact on teaching, learning, and innovation.
image: https://blog.terc.edu/hubfs/Sally-Crissman-Headshot.jpg
---
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# TERC Blog
## Remembering Sally Crissman
It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of our dear colleague and friend, [Sally Crissman](https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/bostonglobe/name/sally-crissman-obituary?id=61634027). For 25 years at TERC, Sally brought extraordinary wisdom, curiosity, and generosity to her work, helping shape innovative science curricula and learning experiences that influenced countless teachers and students across the country. Her contributions to projects including *The [Inquiry Project](https://www.terc.edu/projects/the-inquiry-project/)*, *[Talk Science](https://www.terc.edu/projects/talk-science/),* [*Focus on Energy*](https://www.terc.edu/projects/focus-on-energy-preparing-elementary-teachers-to-meet-the-ngss-challenge/), and [*Evolving Minds*](https://www.terc.edu/terc_products/the-evolving-minds-project/) exemplified her commitment to strengthening science education for all.
A trailblazer in science teaching and learning, Sally spent more than six decades advancing the field and inspiring generations of educators. Before joining TERC, she taught science and led science departments in elementary, middle, and high schools, directed teacher institutes, and served as a respected speaker, consultant, and mentor nationwide.
At TERC, she developed influential curricula and resources that continue to shape classroom practice today. She also helped create the [first fully online master's degree program](https://www.terc.edu/projects/science-in-education/) in science teaching with Lesley University, expanding access to high-quality professional learning well ahead of its time.
Sally's influence continues to be felt throughout the education community. Educators have described the Lesley University master's program she helped create as one of the most impactful learning experiences of their careers. Others still recommend and rely on *Talk Science* resources, praising their practical, research-based strategies for fostering meaningful classroom discourse and supporting diverse learners.
Those who worked alongside [Sally](https://www.terc.edu/profiles/sally-crissman/#) remember not only her remarkable expertise, but also her warmth, humor, encouragement, and unwavering belief in the potential of others. We are profoundly grateful for Sally's many contributions to TERC and the broader field of science education, and we extend our heartfelt condolences to her husband Jim, her children and grandchildren, and all who loved her.
**Authors:**
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