Dillner is excited to meet new faces and share her knowledge with students

While some Minnehaha sophomores may struggle at first to find a connection with particles so small they can’t be seen, explanations are on the way.

“What I like most about being a chemistry teacher is that it relates to everything,” said Naomi Dillner, who joined the Upper School science department this year. Because chemistry is the study of matter, it affects each action we take and all that we are able to see.

Dillner earned a bachelor’s degree in biology with a minor in chemistry, followed by a doctoral degree in biochemistry, molecular biology and biophysics, Dillner has been teaching for 20 years, spending about half that time working with high-school students. She said she has a passion for sharing her knowledge with others and connecting with students.

“Research is exciting, but I love being in the classroom most,” she said. “The students are what make teaching great.”

Her colleagues have noticed and appreciated her excitement for science.

“She’s very intelligent and passionate about her subjects,” said Tim Swanson, science teacher who has most upper-school students in physics the year before they take chemistry.

Besides teaching, Dillner enjoys spending time with her children and traveling.