Rosa Davila

Rosa Davila is celebrating 30 years of teaching at CSI this year. As Distinguished Professor of Chemistry and Chair of the Engineering, Physical, and Computer Sciences Department, she has spent three decades helping students better understand the science behind the world around them.

Known for being “strict but fair,” Rosa challenges her students to think critically, work through problems step by step, and build confidence in the lab and classroom. She brings humor into her teaching too, including her signature “oxygenate your brain” breaks that help students reset and recharge during class.

What Rosa values most is the connection she builds with students. Whether helping them understand chemistry concepts or encouraging them through their goals, she is passionate about helping students grow both academically and personally.

Outside of CSI, Rosa enjoys spending time with family, reading, puzzles, church activities, and CrossFit — though she’ll be the first to say she hates burpees.