Patricia "Patt" Dennis is a passionate educator, researcher, and lifelong learner whose journey began in the inner city of Newark, New Jersey. Inspired by her own experiences within the Newark education system, she has dedicated herself to advancing innovative learning opportunities since 2018. Patt’s career began as an extracurricular instructor at the MLC STEM Center, where she led STEAM programs and specialized in chess instruction for students in grades K-8. She further served as an AmeriCorps reading coach in East Orange and Patterson, and later as the Learning and Technology Coordinator for the WELL Grant Program at The New Brunswick Theology Seminary. Her diverse roles also include serving as District Technology Director, Technology Teacher, and Instructional Technology Specialist at a charter middle school in East Orange.

Currently, Patt holds dual roles as a School Library Media Specialist—where she leads numerous STEAM-based clubs—and as an English Composition professor for first-year college students. In these positions, she actively engages learners by integrating global issues into game-based learning and esports, fostering critical thinking, collaboration, and digital literacy. Her work emphasizes connecting students to broader cultural contexts through innovative educational technologies.

Patt is proud to serve as the Lead Researcher for Garden State Esports, a nonprofit scholastic program that brings game-based learning and esports into K-12 schools. Her doctoral studies at New Jersey City University focuses on game-based innovative learning as an emerging educational technology tool, and she has presented her findings at prestigious conferences, including OTESSA and ISTE. Beyond her professional pursuits, Patt is a digital artist and avid basketball player, blending creativity and discipline in all aspects of her life.

A true philomath and pedagogue, Patt embraces both her love of learning and her dedication to teaching. She encourages fellow educators to remain curious and passionate, reminding them of Toni Morrison’s call to “make a difference about something other than yourselves.” Through her work, Patt exemplifies how education can transform communities and inspire meaningful change.