Born and raised in Reno, Nevada, and a proud graduate of McQueen High School, Cassie Eckroth’s path to teaching has been one of determination and adaptability. While studying environmental science and education at the University of Nevada, Reno, Eckroth’s life changed in 2021 when she suffered a spinal cord injury that left her paralyzed from the waist down. Her recovery journey reshaped her perspective and perseverance.
Cassie Eckroth won a gold medal at the World Para Surf Championship.
Eckroth changed her focus and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in public health in 2022, before taking time away from school to focus on adaptive sports. During that time, she traveled the world competing in the Association of Adaptive Surfing Professionals’ World Tour, surfing in destinations such as Australia, Hawaii, Costa Rica and Oceanside, California. Her dedication and athletic excellence led her to join Team USA, where she won a gold medal at the World Para Surf Championship. Eckroth also trained in adaptive ski racing with the National Ability Center in Park City, Utah, showcasing her remarkable spirit both on and off the slopes.
In 2024, Eckroth returned to the University to continue her studies through the University’s NevadaTeach program, pursuing dual bachelor’s degrees in secondary education and biology. She is set to graduate in December 2025 with plans to become a secondary science teacher.
“I love having the opportunity to make an impact in students’ lives as well as share with them the exciting world of science,” Eckroth said. “In high school, I had a really amazing science teacher for AP Biology who opened my eyes to how fun science can be, and I hope I can do that for my future students.
Eckroth’s enthusiasm for hands-on learning fuels her teaching philosophy. She loves engaging students in lab work and connecting biological concepts to real-world examples. She credits NevadaTeach faculty members, Megan Beckham and Mandy Collins, for inspiring her and helping her grow as an educator. “They’ve been incredibly supportive and encouraging throughout my journey,” Eckroth said. “They’ve shaped who I aspire to be as a teacher.”
When she’s not in the classroom, Eckroth spends her time skiing, biking and surfing. She enjoys traveling and exploring the outdoors with her siblings, nieces, nephews and three Labradors.
Cassie Eckroth embodies the resilience, passion and excellence that define The Wolf Pack Way, inspiring those around her to keep learning, exploring and moving forward.
