Each week, Cleveland State University will profile new faculty members with a “getting to know you” feature called ProfTALK. Learn about your prof’s background, bona fides and how they contribute to the momentum of Engaged Learning. Then get behind the desk and learn a little more about what makes them tick. This week, we touch on everything from public datasets and ice cream, to motorcycles and modern dance. Meet DeAndra M. Stone and Brice Grunert, Ph.D.!

CLASS Theatre & Dance Visiting Assistant College Lecturer DeAndra M. Stone

M.S., Health Sciences, Cleveland State University, 2018

B.S., Health Sciences, Cleveland State University, 2016

B.A., Psychology, Cleveland State University, 2014

Proud alum of CSU, Stone graduated with two consecutive undergrad degrees while completing studies as a dance minor. Her dance background was strengthened as a member of CSU’s Modern Dance Company. Stone then applied her dance education as a Dance Movement Instructor at Coventry Children’s Center in Cleveland Heights; as dance instructor at Hathaway Brown School in Shaker Heights and Mayne Attraction Studios in Cleveland Heights, and as a performer with Marquez Dance Project. Guiding CSU dance majors through their undergraduate summer research on Community Dance gained Stone dance experiences through the “Dance for PD” model, while implementing dance sessions at Cleveland Clinic Rehabilitation Center in Beachwood.

Currently the Interim Director of Dance/Visiting College Lecturer at CSU, Stone is also assistant dance instructor for Olivet Institutional Baptist Church’s praise dance ministry.

What three words come to mind when you think of Cleveland State University?

Community, Centered, Experiences.

What is a common question you get from Cleveland State University students?

“Whoa, I didn't realize CSU was connected with Playhouse Square! How is that possible?!?!”

What do you like most about teaching and why?

I like the opportunity to connect with students beyond the textbook; witnessing students make content connections to the world outside of campus is always profound- and I always look forward to those moments!

What do you like to do in your spare time?

Other than dancing, I always enjoy spending time with my sisters, whether in-person or via FaceTime (I am the eldest of 5 daughters)... board games, UNO, word find competitions, miniature golf... and we’re not too bad at badminton either! 

Where is your favorite place in Cleveland and why?

It’s b.a. Sweetie Soda Shoppe (or any ice cream shop)... I have a serious passion for ice cream...

What is a “fun fact” about you that many people may not know about you?

Well, I' m not sure if this is considered a “fun fact” or an obsession: but I absolutely love Disney Parks. The feeling of total immersion in the experience and true escape from life beyond the park gates is always surreal to me. I've been visiting Disney Parks at least once per year since 2009; before that, not as frequently. Next on my list: Disneyland Paris.

Also, I’m a roller coaster enthusiast as a Cedar Point Gold Season Passholder. I like to have fun in amusement/theme parks.

What is your personal motto/mantra/axiom?

Anything you do from your heart will come back to you tenfold—teach from your heart, dance from your heart, speak from your heart, give from your heart.

Science Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences Assistant Professor Brice Grunert, Ph.D.

Ph.D., Geology, Michigan Technological University (2018)

M.S. Freshwater Science and Technology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (2013)

B.A., Biology, English, University of Missouri (2010)

Dr. Grunert’s research focuses on characterizing dissolved organic carbon cycling, assessing water quality and estimating ecosystem processes through the lens of optics and satellite remote sensing. With remote sensing, ecological and biogeochemical processes can be viewed over broad spatial and temporal scales unavailable from in situ measurements. Much of his research focuses on the Arctic, terrestrial-aquatic interactions, the Laurentian Great Lakes and the coastal ocean. Much of his work happens in the field and lab, though he works with satellite data sets and develops algorithms requires working with large public datasets and repositories.

At CSU, Dr. Grunert teaches remote sensing and GIS courses, focused on teaching concepts that allow students to handle, explore and analyze geospatial datasets. The overarching goal of the courses I teach is to better understand connections between Earth system processes through space and time.

What three words come to mind when you think of Cleveland State University?

Water, potential, urban.

What is a common question you get from Cleveland State University students?

Where have you traveled for research?

What do you like most about teaching and why?

The spark in a student’s eyes when they “get” it and are curious to learn more. That motivates me to ensure the material is accessible.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

Trail run, swim, hike, kayak, camp, gardening, cooking. All those are made better with my family enjoying it with me.

Where is your favorite place in Cleveland and why?

I’m not sure I’ve found my favorite quite yet. I love the Great Lakes, but I’m sure I’ll find the perfect trail for running and that will be my go-to spot.

What is a “fun fact” about you that many people may not know about you?

I’m a big fan of street bikes and rode a Ninja for 10+ years. I’m looking forward to getting back into riding.

What is your personal motto/mantra/axiom?

Hard work pays off.