"SPARKY"
Dr. Susan Corrigan
Program Director
Susan has had many exciting educational experiences throughout her career. She has two Bachelor's degrees, a Master's degree, and a doctorate in Administrative Leadership. She has taught all levels of students from elementary through college, and is very passionate about teaching hands-on, inquiry-based science. Susan's school district in Colorado sent her on a special assignment to a Challenger Learning Center for 2 years where she led students through exciting space-simulated missions. She is an International Baccalaureate trained teacher and had the opportunity to work at an international school in England before moving to Virginia. Susan is very proud to be a part of the STARBASE team, exciting and inspiring students into considering a STEM career.
"COMET"
Debby Putman
Deputy Director
Debby “Comet” named for her long tail of hair, joined STARBASE in July 2016. Her son Justin, who is now 20 years old remembers attending STARBASE in the 5th grade. He was so excited about the program that it made Comet want to be a part of it. Before STARBASE, she worked in education for over 16 years teaching mathematics at the middle school level. Debby earned a Bachelor’s of Science in Computer Programming and a Bachelor’s of Art in Elementary Education with an Endorsement in Mathematics from Shepherd University. She went on to earn a Master’s of Science in Educational Technology from Shenandoah University and became a National Board Certified teacher in Adolescence Mathematics in 2006. Debby loves animals and lives on a farm. In her spare time she raises peacocks and exotic pheasants.
"GALAXY"
Sabrina Ramey
Instructor
Sabrina, “Galaxy,” was born and raised in Winchester, VA. After graduating from John Handley High School, she studied at George Mason University. During that time, Sabrina worked with an outreach mentoring and STEM program for minority elementary/middle school students. She enjoyed engaging with the students using robotics, and witnessed students gain an interest in STEM. Growing up she always had an interest for Science, but during college she developed a love for STEM and working with students. Sabrina realized she had the ability to make a BIG change in the younger generations, by encouraging students to consider a future in STEM. STARBASE is very fortunate to have such an engaging and passionate STEM educator. Sabrina graduated from GMU with a Bachelor of Science degrees in Chemistry with a concentration in Biochemistry and another Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science. After graduating, Sabrina worked with Winchester Public Schools for about 2.5 years. Outside of STARBASE, she loves spending time with her son & family, plays basketball, and seeks out new adventures.
"ORION"
James Wonsetler
Instructor
James (Orion) Wonsetler spent 6 years as a special education teacher before joining the team at STARBASE. He graduated from Samford University and has worked in the education system for the last fifteen years. He is an avid comic book reader with a large collection of comic books. He is originally from Florida.
"RUNNER"
Matthew Grooms
Instructor
Matthew (Runner) spent 5 years as a high school math teacher before joining the team at STARBASE. He graduated from Bridgewater College with a degree in Mathematics and was a part of the cross country team. In his free time you’ll find him playing video games, watching anime, or playing music on his guitar.
"FLASH"
Sam Wilfong
Computer Technician
Sam (or Flash) has a degree in Computer Science from Radford University. He worked as a computer technician for Parsons Brinkerhoff on a FEMA contract, before coming to STARBASE. Sam enjoys building his own computers, tinkering with new hardware and software, watching football and playing video games in his spare time.
