Dr. David DeVol
David DeVol, Ph.D., dedicated over three decades to science education, teaching at the graduate level at the University of Illinois, for thirteen years at Lockport Township High School, and for sixteen years at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (IMSA), where his impact continues to resonate.
At IMSA, Dr. DeVol taught Advanced Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and Methods in Scientific Inquiry, consistently inspiring students to explore the world through scientific investigation. He was instrumental in transforming the Advanced Chemistry curriculum, championing hands-on, laboratory-based learning in place of high-stakes testing. This pedagogical shift formed the basis of a graduate student’s case study conducted in collaboration with the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, further solidifying IMSA’s reputation as a national leader in STEM education.
In addition to his classroom contributions, Dr. DeVol served in key leadership roles, including Science Operational Coordinator and Building Operational Coordinator, where he worked across departments to optimize academic scheduling and strengthen instructional operations. He also played a pivotal role in the Student Inquiry and Research (SIR) program, serving as a faculty leader and mentor, and supporting students in independent research pursuits. His outreach extended to prospective students and educators alike, through service on the Admissions Selection Committee, repeated participation in Preview Day events, and professional development for teachers across Illinois.
Dr. DeVol’s excellence as an educator has been recognized through numerous honors, including the IMSA Teacher Recognition Award, the University of Chicago Outstanding Educator Award, and two-time receipt of IMSA’s prestigious Leon Lederman Award for excellence in scholarship and presentation.
Since retiring, Dr. DeVol has remained engaged with the IMSA community. He returned in 2023–2024 to support the SIR program in a leadership role, volunteered on the Admissions Review Committee, and participated in campus events such as IMSAloquium, where he served as a moderator. He remains committed to supporting IMSA’s mission and looks forward to contributing on a volunteer basis for years to come.
