Nuvia Crisol Ruland is a scientist and artist passionate about developing and facilitating curriculum based on the creative process at High Tech High Chula Vista. Her middle name, Crisol, Spanish for crucible or melting pot, holds the key to her passion for scientific research and art making. She’s been following these interests since she graduated from UC San Diego with a B.S. in biochemistry/cell biology and a minor in studio art.
Prior to teaching she worked for nearly 10 years at Arena Pharmaceuticals as a member of the Drug Discovery team. Nuvia was part of a team whose efforts in cardiovascular research led to the development of complex pharmaceuticals that were published in scientific journals. As a visual artist, she documented her bicultural experience of growing up in Los Angeles while frequenting Baja California, Mexico to visit her family. Her artwork has been displayed on both coasts and on both sides of the border and can be viewed at www.artecrisol.com.
Since arriving at High Tech High she has made a leap in her journey as a lifelong learner by earning a Masters degree in Teacher Leadership through HTH’s Graduate School of Education program and completing a year-long Fellowship with the National Equity Project. This August she joined the GSE team as a Professional Learning Coordinator and is thrilled to work closely with educators visiting the High Tech schools. She can’t wait to facilitate experiences that will make others passionate about project-based and social-emotional learning.
This year Nuvia celebrates 12 years of marriage with her favorite artistic collaborator, Jim Ruland. They are actively involved in San Diego’s arts and literary community by creating and supporting events that contribute to the city’s cultural fabric.