Biography
Dr. Schaal grew up in Springdale, Ark., where she developed a love for science at
an early age. While biology had always been her favorite subject, becoming a professor
was never part of her original plan. During college, however, God opened doors for
her to tutor classmates and later teach undergraduate students while pursuing her
Ph.D. Through those experiences, she discovered a passion for teaching and mentoring.
Watching students gain confidence, master challenging concepts and experience the
excitement of successful scientific discovery affirmed her calling to become a professor.
Before joining Ouachita Baptist University, Dr. Schaal spent several years conducting
research on oncogenic viruses as a graduate student. She then served as an Assistant
Professor at Marian University, where she mentored undergraduate researchers studying
antibiotic-producing soil bacteria while teaching a variety of biology courses. Her
favorite course to teach is Virology and Immunology because it combines her enthusiasm
for microbiology with the opportunity to help students understand the fascinating
interactions between pathogens and the immune system. Although Dr. Schaal grew up
attending church, she came to realize during college that knowing about God is very
different from having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Her faith continued
to deepen throughout graduate school through the encouragement and discipleship of
her church community. She previously served on her church's prayer team and looks
forward to becoming involved in a church family in Arkadelphia. Outside the classroom,
Dr. Schaal enjoys exploring Arkansas's beautiful outdoors, spending time with family
and friends and attending/hosting game nights. She is happily married to the love
of her life and is excited to share with him the Natural State she has always called
home.
Q&A
Why did you come to Ouachita?
When I graduated from high school, I decided that I was not going to a college that
was more than three hours away. Little did I know that the Lord had a better plan
for me, and I found myself attending OBU (further away much to my parent’s dismay).
My time at OBU was unforgettable, however; that chapter of my life came to a close.
As I moved down to the swamps of Louisiana, I thought I’d never see OBU again. Completing
my Ph.D. and taking a teaching position as far away from the south as I could, I believed
that was the end of it. But later God called me back, in the form of my previous professor,
Dr. Plymale. At the interview I felt the presence of Jesus and a genuine love and
care for the students all over campus. Getting to meet both new individuals and talk
to familiar faces, and after the interview I was certain. It is unbelievable to think
that God orchestrated this story where the professor that inspired me to teach would
eventually help me find my dream job back at my alma mater.
Why did you decide to become a professor?
I was sitting in Jones Science Center as a Junior Biology major where I found myself
teaching one of the underclassmen. Dr. Plymale walked right up to me and told me that
I should become a professor. God sends many signs, some are hard to see while others
stare you right in the face. I felt an overwhelming peace as if that was my calling,
and all I needed was someone to point me in the right direction. I got my Ph.D. with
teaching in mind, and everything fell into place according to God’s perfect plan.
Why is your subject an important one in our world?
Many people assume that science and faith are at odds with one another, but I have
found the opposite to be true. Science provides an opportunity to better understand
the creativity, complexity and order of God's creation. I believe that every new discovery
points us toward a deeper appreciation of His handiwork. As a microbiologist I am
interested in the invisible world that exists beyond our naked eyes. Though these
microorganisms are too small to be seen with the naked eye, they have an enormous
impact on our lives. Some microbes cause devastating diseases, while others are essential
for human health, agriculture and ecosystems. By studying these organisms, we can
develop new treatments, improve public health and better care for God's creation.
I also believe science is important because it brings people together. Scientific
discovery is built on curiosity, collaboration and a shared desire to solve problems
that improve lives. Whether we are searching for new antibiotics, understanding disease
or simply exploring how the world works, science invites us to ask meaningful questions
and seek truth. For me, that pursuit is both intellectually exciting and an opportunity
to glorify God through learning about His creation.
What do you want future students to know about your degree program?
One of the greatest strengths of the Ouachita Biology program is that we don't simply
teach students what to think, we teach them how to think. Many students have experienced
classes where success is measured by memorizing lecture notes and repeating that information
on an exam. Likewise, many laboratory courses follow a "cookbook" format, where students
complete a predetermined procedure, record the expected results, and move on without
truly understanding the scientific process. Our program takes a different approach.
Rather than simply following instructions, students are challenged to ask questions,
solve problems and think like scientists. Laboratory experiences are designed to be
inquiry-based, allowing students to investigate unique research questions and develop
their own approaches to finding answers. Because of this, no two student projects
are exactly alike, giving each student a meaningful, hands-on research experience
that develops critical thinking, creativity and confidence. Another advantage of studying
biology at Ouachita is the opportunity to work with modern instrumentation and participate
in authentic research. Although we are a small liberal arts university, our students
have access to research experiences and technology that rival those available at many
larger institutions. More importantly, they receive individualized mentorship from
faculty who know them personally and are deeply invested in their success. I want
future students to know that when they graduate from Ouachita, they won't just leave
with knowledge of biology—they'll leave with the ability to think critically, solve
complex problems, conduct meaningful research and apply those skills wherever God
leads them.
What do you like to do in your free time?
- Spend time with my husband
- Play with my cat (and my snakes)
- Outdoor adventures (hiking, swimming, biking, etc.)
- Card games and board games
What has been a meaningful Bible verse or passage for you?
“I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever
the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have
plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether
well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through
him who gives me strength." (Philippians 4:11-13)
Although many people are familiar with Philippians 4:13, fewer understand its full
context. Paul is not saying that God will give us the strength to accomplish whatever
we desire. Rather, he is teaching that through Christ we can endure and remain faithful
in every circumstance. That reminder has been especially meaningful to me because
it shifts my focus from relying on my own abilities to finding contentment and strength
in Christ, regardless of what life brings.
