WILSON, N.C. — March 30, 2026 — Dr. Sylvia M. James Butterfield, head of the STEM Education Directorate at the National Science Foundation (NSF), will deliver the keynote address at the 124th annual commencement exercises of Barton College, scheduled for Saturday, May 9, on center campus at 10:30 a.m.
“We are honored to welcome Dr. Butterfield to our campus for commencement. Her leadership in advancing STEM education reflects the kind of innovation and purpose we seek to cultivate in our students,” said Dr. Douglas N. Searcy, president of Barton College. “Her message will not only inspire the Class of 2026, but also resonate with future generations of Barton graduates as they pursue meaningful impact in their fields and communities.”
Butterfield leads the National Science Foundation’s Directorate for STEM Education (EDU), where she oversees a broad portfolio of investments supporting research that enhances learning and teaching in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. The directorate’s work supports both foundational and use-inspired research aimed at developing a STEM-literate public and workforce prepared to advance the frontiers of science and engineering.
During her more than 20 years with the National Science Foundation, Butterfield has served in numerous leadership roles, including Deputy Assistant Director for STEM Education and Acting Assistant Director for the Directorate for Social, Behavioral and Economic Sciences from 2023 to 2024. She has also led or supported several major NSF programs, including Informal Science Education; Innovative Technology Experiences for Students and Teachers; Advanced Technological Education; After School Centers for Exploration and New Discovery; and NSF Academies for Young Scientists.
Butterfield has contributed to national STEM coordination efforts through service on several Federal Coordination in STEM Interagency Working Groups. She also served as a member of the Burroughs Wellcome Fund Student Science Enrichment Program Advisory Committee and has worked as an education consultant for science education radio programs, youth publications and museums.
A member of the Senior Executive Service, Butterfield received the Distinguished Executive Presidential Rank Award in 2023, one of the highest honors awarded to career leaders in the federal government for sustained excellence in public service. She is the author of multiple science education publications, journal articles and children’s science books.
Butterfield earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Loyola University in Maryland, a Master of Science from Johns Hopkins University and a Doctorate in Science Education from Morgan State University.
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