Alumni Center Dedication
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Alumni Center Dedication Thanks to the nearly 500 alumni who contributed to the School of Education, Health, and Human Performance (EHHP), the Alumni Center in the Jeremy Warren Vann Teacher Education Center at 86 Wentworth Street was dedicated in honor of alumni in education, health, and human performance on May 2, 2008. An original wooden, artistic installation by Charleston artist David Puls was unveiled in the Alumni Center. It features the names of the honored alumni. Dean Frances Welch greeted the alumni and remarked, “Excellence results when highly qualified faculty and staff members intersect with outstanding students and nationally ac‐ credited and highly regarded programs. And, excellence is what has happened over the years at the College of Charleston in our teacher education and health professions programs.” The Alumni Center features seating for nearly 100, a meeting space with integrated technol‐ ogy that can be partitioned for lectures and conferences. If you were unable to attend the dedication, we invite you to take a tour of the building. For more information, contact Bridget Bettelli at 843.953.8050. Fall 2008 Issue 15 Clockwise from top left: Joe (’74) and Laura (’77) Thompson; Cherry Daniel (’75) and Myrtle Riggs (’46); alumni wall artistic installation; Catherine Jones (’60), Daisy Stoudenmire (’57), Norwood Smoak (’55); and Allen Porter and Meike McDonald (’04). School of Education, Health, and Human Performance College of Charleston
Transcript of Alumni Center Dedication
Connections Fall 2008
Clockwise from top left: Joe (’74) and Laura (’77) Thompson; Cherry Daniel (’75) and Myrtle Riggs (’46); alumni wall artistic installation; Catherine Jones (’60), Daisy Stoudenmire (’57), Norwood Smoak (’55); and Allen Porter and Meike McDonald (’04).
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Message from the Dean
I hope you like the new format of our Connections newsletter as much as I do. I am particularly pleased that we are incorporating news about our alumni. I am also pleased that we have several new faculty and staff members that have joined us in the School of Education, Health, and Human Performance. Among those, our new development officer Bridget Bettelli, assisted by our gradu ate assistants Kristine Tenini and Sarah Wood, devised the new format for the newsletter. Thank you!
In 2005, we began considering reorganization and studied numerous organizational formats from institutions across the United States. Our new Department of Teacher Education resulted from reorganization this past summer that combined the two former departments with teacher educa tion programs. Our new department has a name that is more recognizable; we are more similar to other universities and can more easily compare ourselves to them. Also, one department allows us to be more time and cost efficient.
Thanks to Ann and Lee Higdon for hosting us at their home in Charleston in March when we kickedoff our Advocates for Education donor society. To date I am pleased that many of our alumni and other supporters have joined us in the important work of improving education. If you haven’t joined us as an Advocate, I hope you will.
If you have not had an opportunity to visit our new Alumni Center, please contact us to arrange a time to see it and our recognition of over 500 alumni on our “Fasti Sociales: Honoring Alumni in Education, Health, and Human Performance” display. Artist, David Puls designed this beautiful, intricate work which meaningfully recognizes many of our alumni.
Please note upcoming events on the back page of the newsletter. I hope you will join us at the second lecture in our new lecture se ries on March 3, 2009. We are very pleased to be hosting Harvard researcher and writer Dr. Dan Kindlon.
PROGRAM NEWS
Cooperating Teacher Spotlight: Barbara Ferson Cooperating Teachers are essential to the clinical practice internship, a graduation requirement for all EHHP education majors. Serving as a model, guide and mentor, cooperating teachers have a significant influence on the interns’ future teaching styles and professional attitudes. Barbara Ferson (pictured) is a kindergarten teacher at Laurel Hill Primary. Ferson who graduated from the College’s M.A.T. in early childhood education program is in her third year as a kindergarten teacher. Ferson is an excellent role model as a “lifelong learner.” Ferson’s excellent organizational and teaching skills – with the help of parent volunteers – result in students experiencing meaningful learning opportunities. Always seeking development for herself as a professional, Ferson is implementing Smartboard technology and Lucy Calkins’ Writing Program in her classroom this year.
Thank you to all of our cooperating teachers; we could not have a comprehensive, nationally accredited teacher education program without your hard work and dedication!
Alumni Notes Professional Achievements and Personal Milestones
1970s L. Cherry Daniel (B.S. ’75) has been named executive director of the South Carolina Charter Virtual School. Cherry also serves on the College of Charleston Board of Trustees. Colin J. Smoak (B.S. ’78) was featured in the 2008 Profiles in Business section of the Charleston Regional Business Journal for his work with McLaughlin and Smoak. Renee McCord Sanders (B.S. ’79) was named Florence School District 5 Teacher of the Year 20082009 and was a finalist for the S.C. Teacher of the Year. Renee is a biology teacher at Johnsonville High School in Florence, S.C. 1980s Mary C. Goodale (B.S. ’82) graduated from Southern Wesleyan University in Decem ber 2007 with a master’s in education. She and her two sons, Donovan and
Anderson, live in Liberty, S.C. Jane Schuler (M.Ed. ’84) was named Berkeley County School District Teacher of the Year 20072008. Cheryl Myers Allran (B.S. ’86) has received her National Board Certification for Middle Child Generalist. Melissa Schroder Weir (B.S. ’87) has joined Charleston Area Therapeutic Riding of Johns Island as an instructor. 1990s James L. Harper (B.S. ’90) was promoted to Lt. Colonel in the U.S. Army Reserves in the military intelligence branch. Harper and his wife, Diana continue to reside in Altamonte Springs, Fla.. Wendy Caldwell Richardson (B.A. ’90) was named Orangeburg Consolidated School District Five Teacher of the Year 20072008.
Frances C. Welch, Ph.D.
A native of Richmond, Va., Sara Davis, Ph.D., moved to Charleston 38 years ago to teach high school English at St. Paul’s High School on Yon ges Island. Davis came to the College in 1993 and initially taught the curriculum areas of human growth and development, technology, as sessment and secondary English. She has also directed two M.A.T programs and currently serves as director of the Center for Faculty Development. Davis will be leading the School’s National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education reaccreditation process through 2011. In her free time, she enjoys kayaking, reading, drawing, traveling and working with animals. She and her husband Chuck have wel comed three rescued dogs and five rescued cats into their home.
Originally from Michigan, Meta Van Sickle, Ph. D., has been at the College since 1992 and has taught over 20 teacher education courses. Her research has been published in professional journals with topics ranging from instructional strategies for atrisk stu dents to teaching in a multicultural context . Her area of expertise is science education, so helping to coordinate the creation of the M.Ed. in science and mathematics and acting as director of the program have been among her most fulfilling endeavors. In her spare time, Van Sickle enjoys singing with the Charleston Sym phony, weightlifting, bowling and visiting gardens and other natu ral sites.
PROGRAM NEWS
Collaboration at Camp Hope During the summer of 2008, the Center for Partnerships to Improve Education (CPIE) became an involved partner and added an educational component to Camp Hope. Camp Hope is an evening summer enrich ment program for atrisk students at Fraser Elementary School that was originally proposed by City of Charleston Police Chief Greg Mullen. The program was developed in 2007 by a task force composed of vari ous community leaders in Charleston, and its main purpose is to provide positive experiences for atrisk youth in the city. Over 20 different organizations contribute to the success of the camp. The free, fiveweek camp benefited youth between the ages of 7 and 14. Every evening of the camp began with a meal and was followed by activities ranging from health and sports to academics, motivation and cultural arts. This year, CPIE became involved in the program to provide educational services, focusing on the areas of reading and math. Reading activities included readalouds, creating storybooks and making story quilts. Math activities included topics such as telling time, counting money, learning shapes and reviewing math facts through flashcards. Graduate students, faculty and staff volunteered their services in this effort and saw progress with the students’ knowledge and skills in both reading and math. Evaluations of the educational components are conducted through CPIE to assess and improve upon the success of this year’s efforts as part of the planning process for next year’s program. Paula Egelson, director of CPIE, emphasized that as the program moves forward, it will be “important to maintain direct contact with students to see how they are doing, what their needs are and how we can support them.”
New Department of Teacher Education The School of Education, Health, and Human Performance (EHHP) has adopted a more unified structure with the melding of the School’s two former teacher education departments, Educational Foundations, Secondary, and Special Education and Elementary, Early Childhood, Middle Level Education into the Department of Teacher Education (TEDU). Meta Van Sickle, Ph.D., has been appointed the chair, and mu tindi ndunda, Ph.D., the associate chair of the new department. Frances C. Welch, Ph.D. serves as the dean and Sara Calhoun Davis, Ph.D., serves as the associate dean of the School.
Van Sickle sees many advantages to the creation of the new department and believes its structure will “ensure faculty members’ voices are heard, offer great opportunities to develop new degree and certificate programs, and meet the educational needs of the Lowcountry and state as a whole.” Davis agrees, the “shared expertise of a larger, diverse group has the potential to enhance learning experiences for our teacher candidates and provide creative, new teaching, research and service opportunities for faculty and teacher education candi dates.”
Cassandra Norvell (M.Ed. ’91) was named Charleston County School District Teacher of the Year 20082009. Lisa Pickett (B.S. ’92) is a respiratory therapist stationed at Travis Air Force Base in California and has completed several tours to Iraq and Afghanistan. She has one child, Cameron. Darin Rice (B.S. ’92) was named Greenwood School District Fifty Teacher of the Year 20082009. Frances D. Ridgell (B.S. ’92) and Robbie Clair (B.A.’98) announce the birth of their daughter, Rivers Bea in 2007. Fran is the guidance director for Baptist Hill High School in Hollywood, SC, and Robbie is a glass artist with works in galleries throughout the Southeast. Shayne Whitaker (B.A. ’92, M.A.T. ’96) was named Beech Hill Elemen tary School Teacher of the Year 20072008.
Jennifer Callahan Sauer (B.S. ’93) was named Dorchester School District Two Teacher of the Year 20082009. Shirley R. Hinson (B.S. ’94) has been named director of government relations at the College. She was previously the director of corporate and community relations with the Lowcountry Graduate Center and served in the S.C. House of Representatives from 1995 until 2007. Kelly Bearden (B.S. ’95, M.A.T. ’01) was named Berkeley County School District Teacher of the Year 20082009. Jacqueline Rogers Foster (B.S. ’95) and her husband, Bill, welcomed their son Reece William into the world on February 25, 2008. The Fos ters live in Greenville, SC, where Jacque owns Moxie Media, Inc., pub lisher of Upstate S.C.'s, The Little Black Book for every busy woman.
PHILANTHROPY NEWS
Left to right : (1) emcee for the night, Tom Crawford and three of the 14 Jeremy Warren Vann Scholarship winners. Lache Russell, Felicia Habersham and Elizabeth Rogers Joyner; (2) Jeff and Diana Johnson and Karen Schmelter; (3) Mary Helen Dantzler, Missy Haigh and Louise Allen .
Jeremy’s Scholarship Gala The Chuck and Sara Calhoun Davis Foundation and the School of Education, Health, and Human Performance hosted the first annual Jeremy’s Scholarship Gala with dinner and live and silent auctions at the Blacklock House on March 13, 2008. The Gala raised $28,000 to support the Jeremy Warren Vann Memorial Scholarship, which funds senior and M.A.T. teacher education students who have demon strated financial need. (It is used during their clinical practice semester.) The evening featured entertainment by the Lee Barbour Trio and delicious food stations provided by Hamby’s Catering. Mark your calendars for next year’s gala — March 12, 2009!
Alumni Notes Cont. Jennifer Middleton (B.S. ’95) was named Charleston County School District Teacher of the Year 20072008. Amy McLaurin Lynch (B.S. ’96) and her husband Levin, welcomed their first son Levin Davidson Lynch Jr. in September. Lynch is a senior oncology sales representa tive for SanofiAvenis. Jennifer P. Wilks McKeown (B.S. ’96) and her husband Wriley, welcomed new son William Crawford on January 28, 2008. The family continues to live in Charlotte, N.C. Stacey R. Schultz Roarty (B.S. ’96) and her husband Don, announce the birth of their daughter Samantha. Stacey is director of the AT&T Premier Client Group in Balti more, Md. Melissa Ford Vagts (B.S. ’96) was married to James Vagts on April 19, 2008. She is currently a pediatric speechlanguage pathologist with Coastal Therapy Services in Mount Pleasant, S.C.
Noel Cowan Brown (B.S. ’97) and her husband Chip, have opened a doggie daycare and luxury pet hotel called Brown Dog Lodge in Memphis, Tenn. They have two sons, Cowan (5) and Walt (3). Cheryl A. Moniz (M.A.T. ’97) has joined Trident Literacy Associa tion as director of marketing and public relations. Jennifer Gause Glenn (B.S. ’98) has earned a master of educa tion degree from Winthrop University. Sarah E. SwillingNunn (B.S. ’99) and her husband Samuel, an nounce the birth of their son Hayden. Sarah is a stayathome mother. Millicent Bowen Varnadoe (B.S. ’99) and her husband Jason, welcomed their first child, Fisher Shaw. They currently reside on St. Simons Island, Ga. where Millie is a thirdgrade teacher.
The Power of Giving What does it take to have a prosperous life? To Lou and Pam Tisdale, it means giving some of your pros perity away. They believe the benefits you receive by sharing your wealth make you a wealthier person.
This idea of prosperity consciousness is reflected in how the Tisdales lead their lives – from volunteering for East Cooper Meals on Wheels to giving to the School of Education, Health, and Human Performance. “If there is something that you want, then you have to give something away first,” Pam explained.
The Tisdales have made a strong commitment to share their prosperity with the College of Charleston. A few years ago, they decided to leave their annuities to the College to fund scholarships in the form of a planned gift. This gift will have a tremendous impact on the lives of future students. It will form an endowment to fund scholarships for South Carolina students who are in financial need.
Making a planned gift to the College of Charleston was a natural step for Pam. Her connection to the College began in 1977 when she de cided to accept an assistant professor position here. She was teaching in a public school in Denver when she heard about a position in the Department of Education and was convinced to make the move once she heard of the College's recent growth and potential. Pam served as the first dean of the School of Education from 1988 to 1994. During her career, she witnessed the positive impact scholarships have on teacher education students’ access to college and their reduced debt after college. The Tisdales’ spirit of giving back ensures that future students are able to attain a college degree, and then give back themselves.
Putting the School of Education, Health, and Human Performance in your will is one way many friends and alumni discover they can make a substantial and lasting gift to help advance our School. There are many planned giving possibilities including trusts, bequests, and insurance options. We can assist you in documenting your intention to strengthen the School with a gift from your estate. For more information, contact Bridget Bettelli at 843.953.8050, [email protected], or EHHP, College of Charleston, Charleston, SC 29424.
2009 Advocates for Education
Junior Advocate ($25 – $99) Your name listed in Connections newsletter Invitation to EHHP lecture series Advocate ($100 – $249) Junior Advocate benefits plus Invitation to the EHHP holiday reception Complimentary subscription to College of Charleston Magazine Star Advocate ($250 – $499) Advocate benefits plus Invitation to a lunch with a guest speaker Silver Star Advocate ($500 – $999) Star Advocate benefits plus Invitation to the annual Jeremy’s Scholarship Gala (benefits the Jeremy Warren Vann Memorial Scholarship) Gold Star Advocate/Dean’s Circle ($1,000 and above) Gold Star benefits plus Invitation to a private dinner party with the dean Your name featured on a plaque in the EHHP building
PHILANTHROPY NEWS
Advancing K12 education is a commitment Lee and Ann Higdon made during their time at the
College of Charles ton. Through their support of the teacher education program, they con tinue to uphold this commitment as “advocates for edu cation.” Although the Higdons are now
the president and first lady of Connecticut Col lege, they are still very much involved with the School of Education, Health, and Human Per formance at the College of Charleston. It was only fitting that the Higdons hosted a reception at their home in downtown Charleston in March to kickoff the newly formed Advocates for Edu cation group. Advocates for Education is the annual giving soci ety that benefits the School of Education, Health, and Human Performance (EHHP). Members re ceive invitations to EHHP events and recognition in the newsletters but, most important, are con tributing to the advancement of the teaching profession, which will in turn have a significant impact on student achievement in South Caro lina. According to the Center for Public Educa tion, student achievement is more heavily influ enced by teacher quality than by any other fac tor, including students’ race, economic status,
prior academic record or school. The Higdons realized this desperate need for highquality K12 education in South Carolina, and this begins with educating highquality teachers. "My husband and I believe that great teachers inspire their students to achieve great things, not only for themselves, but also for their communities. The College of Charleston's School of Education, Health, and Human Performance has demonstrated its ability to produce inspira tional teachers and, as such, is a vital resource for the entire region. We are happy to support the school in this mission," notes Ann Higdon. The school graduates about 250 teacher educa tion students a year, and many of these students go on to teach in South Carolina. The school also partners with several local underperforming schools to provide tutoring, resources and the professional development necessary for their students to achieve. EHHP is grateful for every gift from alumni, par ents and friends. Advocates for Education was established to recognize these donors for their philanthropy. All of our advocates make it possi ble for EHHP to continue its mission to develop educators and health professionals to lead a di verse community of learners toward an under standing of and active participation in a highly complex world.
Advocates for Education: Lee and Ann Higdon
2000s Anthony Dixon (B.S. ’00, M.A.T. ’01) is the principal of Memminger Elementary School in Charleston. Brittany Meyers (B.S. ’01) has accepted a position as assistant director of annual giving with The Citadel Foundation. Adrienne Besenbach (B.S. ’02) was named Dorchester School District Two Teacher of the Year 20072008. Kristy R. Clayton Coakley (B.S. ’02) was married to Matthew Coakley in Summerville, S.C., on December 15, 2007. She is employed with The Bank of South Carolina. Sonya Fordham (M.Ed. ’02) was named Clay Hill Middle School Teacher of the Year 20072008.
Retha M. Jones (B.S. ’02) earned a masters in education from Columbia College and recently graduated from Winthrop University as a specialist in school psychology. Sharonda Squirewell Johnson (B.S. ’03) was named Fairfield County School District Teacher of the Year 20082009. Jermel L. President (B.S. ’03) is the executive director of the DAE Foun dation. Jermel is a nominee for the Jefferson Award, honoring individu als for their community service. He is also serving on the College's Alumni Board and Cougar Club Board. Lara Borja (B.S. ’04) was named Knightsville Elementary School Teacher of the Year 20072008. Thomas B. Connelly (B.S. ’04) is the athletic director for the City of Hanahan Recreation Department. He currently lives in Summerville, S.C.
Exceptional Teacher Recognized with Gift Since 2006, the College of Charleston has invited all seniors to nominate P12 school teachers who have played an important role in their precollegiate lives. Lisa Dougherty, a gifted support teacher at Hillendale Elementary School in Chadds Ford, Penn. was the recipient of the 2008 Teacher Recognition Award for the School of Education, Health, and Human Performance. Dougherty was given two $1,000 checks, one of which was donated to Hillendale Elementary School. In addition, the UnionvilleChadds Ford School District matched this $1,000 cash award, enabling Hillendale Elementary to purchase a SmartBoard for Dougherty to use in her class room.
FACULTY NEWS
Introducing New Faculty and Staff
Bridget Bettelli joins the school as the de velopment officer after graduating from the College of Charleston in 2006 with her Master of Public Administration degree. An Isle of Palms native and Cougars basketball fan Bet telli also received her B.A. in corporate com munication and B.S. in elementary education from the College in 2003.
Martha Bireda, Ph.D., joins the school as a visiting associate professor in the Center for Partnerships to Improve Education. With over 30 years of experience in the field of education and communication, Bireda works to promote academic achievement in African American and other minority students, and to eliminate racial disparities in this discipline. As the Changing the Face of Teaching coordi nator, Floyd Breeland works with the Call Me MISTER and the Volpe Fellowship pro grams to address the critical shortage of Afri can American male teachers in S.C. Breeland worked in education for 33 years and is retir ing from the S.C. House of Representatives this year.
Megan Burgess joins the Center for Ad vancement of New Literacies in the Middle Grades as their administrative specialist. Originally from Greenville, S.C., Burgess at tended the College of Charleston and fell in love with the city and the school, deciding
af ter graduation in 2008 to stay and get some work experience “behind the scenes.”
William Leroy Hills, Ph.D., returns to the Department of Health and Human Perform ance as a visiting assistant professor. Hills taught at the College from 19731987, serv ing 10 years as department chair. An ordained Episcopal priest, Hills has been on the Board of the Medicine and Ministry Conference since 2005 and enjoys woodworking in his free time.
As an assistant professor in the Department of Teacher Education, Maria Manning, Ph.D. hopes to contribute to the school by engaging students through effective teaching methods and her unique perspective within her research in Asper ger’s Syndrome. She was born in England, grew up in Texas and joins the College from James Madison University. Kelley Mayer, Ph.D., joins the Department of Teacher Education as an assistant professor spe cializing in early childhood education. Mayer ob tained her Ph.D. in early childhood, families and literacy from UNC Chapel Hill and taught kinder garten for five years in public schools. Merle Tamsberg, Ph.D., joins the Department of Teacher Education as a visiting assistant pro fessor, having been with the department since 2004 as an adjunct professor. Currently teaching Introduction to Education, Human Growth and the Education Process, and supervising clinical practice, she enjoys working with current and future teachers on curriculum, planning and teaching skills. Todd Weiss joins the Department of Health and Human Performance as a visiting assistant profes sor. A former athletic trainer with the College of Charleston, Weiss teaches therapeutic exercise and lab along with special topics in athletic train ing. Whittney Wernsing works as the student ac tivities coordinator for the Center for Partner ships to Improve Education, coordinating the tutoring and summer enrichment programs in their four partnership schools. Originally from Raymond, Ill., Wernsing previously served the City of Charleston in the Mayor’s Office for Children, Youth & Families through AmeriCorps.
Alumni Notes Cont. Lindsay Whittington Creech (B.S. ’04) and Stephen Creech were married on July 14th, 2007 and are living in Columbia. Lindsay is a speechlanguage pathologist with Richland School District 2. Laura L. Funderburk (B.S. ’04) is a training and curriculum specialist for the Depart ment of Defense at Ft. Rucker, Ala. She married Doug Kornacki in October 2007. Abby L. Henry Sawyer (B.A. ’04) married Philip Sawyer on December 9, 2006. Abby teaches American literature at Waccamaw High School on Pawleys Island. Courtney L. Collins Rogers (B.S. ‘05) was married to Ashley Rogers on November 17, 2007 in Pawleys Island, S.C. Courtney is currently pursuing a master of education degree from Coastal Carolina and is employed with the Horry County School District. Lisa M. Ackerman Ferguson (M.A.T. ’06) was married to John Matthew Ferguson on December 8, 2007 and is currently teaching first grade at the Daniel Island School. They live in Charleston.
Update us at alumni.cofc.edu
Aline Smith Bullwinkle Lauren Holden Bank of America Audrey Witt Colonial Dames Powder Magazine Stevan Harris Monica Lofe Lindsey Strobel Goizueta Fellows Kerri Maughon Steven Nagy Jeremy Warren Vann Kathleen Clair Mary A. Lee Kate Mungo
Matthew Scott Ciganovic Audrey Witt Monica Janas Audrey Witt Nathan E. Miles Christy Barrow Dori D’Aloisio Kacy Hucks Rebecca Clayton Kathleen Clair Sharon Stella Holbert Mary Worrell Teaching Initiative Dori D’Aloisio Volpe Fellowship Stevan V. Harris
STUDENT NEWS
Scholarship Recipients 20082009
Department of Health and Human Performance: Poster Session and Lecture Students from the Department of Health and Human Performance presented their research at a poster session on October 24 prior to Jaci Van Heest’s lecture. Senior Robert Hensley (pictured at right) presented his research entitled, “Reliability and Validity of a Handheld Dyna mometer (Lafayette Manual Muscle Testing System®) in Assessing Joint Muscle Strength.” Robert is majoring in Athletic Training and plans to attend physical therapy school after gradua tion. Johannes Aartun, Whitney Frail and Kristi Brinkley also presented their research.
Jaci VanHeest, Ph.D., an exercise endocrinology specialist and associate professor at the University of Connecticut, presented a lecture about the effects of physical activity on academic achievement and the PawPALS program.
Student Spotlight: Steven Nagy The School of Education, Health, and Human Performance is proud to introduce Steven Nagy as the 2008 recipi ent of a Goizueta Fellows Scholarship. Nagy grew up in Columbia, South America; his father was a school superin tendent and administrator, his mother a kindergarten teacher. Following in his parents’ footsteps, Nagy is cur rently an elementary education major with a passion for education. “Education for me does not only revolve around the classroom. Education does not only involve what’s in the best interest of your students, but what’s in the best interest of the community in which your students are being taught.” Also a forward on the College of Charleston soccer team, Nagy was named to the 20072008 Southern Conference Academic Honor Roll for his exceptional GPA.
MoveIn Day for New Teacher Education Students The School of Education, Health, and Human Per formance hosted a dropin for new teacher educa tion students and their families on August 23 and 24. While taking a break from moving into the resi dence halls, the students and their families enjoyed lunch in the Alumni Center and met Dean Frances Welch, faculty and staff members and fellow teacher education students. Claire Nicolato (2nd from left), a freshman teacher education student
from Saugertias, N.Y., was accompanied by her grandmother Donna Dana (on left), class of 1978, and her parents.
Alumni Spotlight: Monte Lee
Monte Lee (B.S. ’00) has been named the head baseball coach at the College of Charleston. A former College of Charleston baseball standout, Lee was drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals in the 1999 MLB draft. Inducted as an inaugural member of the College of Charleston’s Baseball Wall of Fame at Pa triots Point Stadium in 2004, Lee joins the Cougars from the University of South Carolina where he served as assistant coach for six years. When asked how he became interested in coaching, Lee re plied, “I have always wanted to do it. As far back as I could remember, I wanted to coach and teach.” Lee enjoys spending his free time with his wife of 12 years, Kelly, and his two daughters, Madie, 12 and Shelby, 9.
UPCOMING EVENTS
PAID Permit No. 149 Charleston, SC
Laura Griffin Memorial 5K Run/Walk Date: Saturday, January 17, 2009 Time: 8 a.m. Location: 66 George Street, Charleston The run is held in memory of Laura Griffin, the former director of the Office of Substance Abuse Prevention at the College who was fatally struck by a drunk driver. The run is dedicated to healthy lifestyles, the prevention of substance abuse and pedestrian safety. Contact: 843.953.5558, [email protected]
Wild Dunes Club Author's Luncheon Date: Saturday, January 17, 2009 Time: 11 a.m. Location: The Sweetgrass Pavilion at Wild Dunes Resort Enjoy a plated lunch and panel discussion with notable authors Billie Letts, Mary Alice Monroe, Bret Lott and Mary Kay Andrews, with guest moderator Marjory Wentworth. This event also features a silent auction and book signing. Pro ceeds benefit EHHP (scholarship for a diverse teacher education candidate) and Trident Liter acy. Tickets: $50 each or $500 (table of 10). Con tact: [email protected], 843.886.2020
Reception for Memminger Elementary Date: Wednesday, January 28, 2009 Time: 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. Location: President’s House, 6 Glebe Street EHHP and the Office of the First Lady will host a reception to present gifts collected from the College community to the school and to welcome new principal, Anthony Dixon.
Volpe Fellowship Reception Date: Thursday, February 26, 2009 Time: 5 – 7 p.m. Location: Avery Research Center, 125 Bull Street Less than one percent of elementary school teachers in S.C. are African American males. The Volpe Fellowship seeks to provide tuition funding for African American male teacher education candidates and ultimately raise student achievement in S.C. The purpose of the reception is to raise awareness and funds for the Volpe Fellowship. Guests will enjoy drinks and heavy hors d'ouevres.
Lecture Series – Dan Kindlon, Ph.D. Date: Tuesday, March 3, 2009 Time: 5 p.m. Location: Stern Student Center, 71 George Street Join us for an interesting lecture “Tough Times, Strong Children,” followed by a reception and book signing. Kindlon is a clinical and research psychologist at Harvard University specializing in behavioral problems of children and adolescents. The focus of this lecture will be resilience and coping in children.
Jeremy's Scholarship Gala Date: Thursday, March 12, 2009 Time: 6 –10 p.m. Location: 28 Bridgeside, Mount Pleasant The gala will benefit the Jeremy Warren Vann Memorial Scholarship, which funds prospective teachers’ tuition during their clinical practice semester. The gala includes a silent and live auc tion, cocktails and heavy hors d'ouevres.
www.ehhp.cofc.edu • 843.953.5613
Clockwise from top left: Joe (’74) and Laura (’77) Thompson; Cherry Daniel (’75) and Myrtle Riggs (’46); alumni wall artistic installation; Catherine Jones (’60), Daisy Stoudenmire (’57), Norwood Smoak (’55); and Allen Porter and Meike McDonald (’04).
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Message from the Dean
I hope you like the new format of our Connections newsletter as much as I do. I am particularly pleased that we are incorporating news about our alumni. I am also pleased that we have several new faculty and staff members that have joined us in the School of Education, Health, and Human Performance. Among those, our new development officer Bridget Bettelli, assisted by our gradu ate assistants Kristine Tenini and Sarah Wood, devised the new format for the newsletter. Thank you!
In 2005, we began considering reorganization and studied numerous organizational formats from institutions across the United States. Our new Department of Teacher Education resulted from reorganization this past summer that combined the two former departments with teacher educa tion programs. Our new department has a name that is more recognizable; we are more similar to other universities and can more easily compare ourselves to them. Also, one department allows us to be more time and cost efficient.
Thanks to Ann and Lee Higdon for hosting us at their home in Charleston in March when we kickedoff our Advocates for Education donor society. To date I am pleased that many of our alumni and other supporters have joined us in the important work of improving education. If you haven’t joined us as an Advocate, I hope you will.
If you have not had an opportunity to visit our new Alumni Center, please contact us to arrange a time to see it and our recognition of over 500 alumni on our “Fasti Sociales: Honoring Alumni in Education, Health, and Human Performance” display. Artist, David Puls designed this beautiful, intricate work which meaningfully recognizes many of our alumni.
Please note upcoming events on the back page of the newsletter. I hope you will join us at the second lecture in our new lecture se ries on March 3, 2009. We are very pleased to be hosting Harvard researcher and writer Dr. Dan Kindlon.
PROGRAM NEWS
Cooperating Teacher Spotlight: Barbara Ferson Cooperating Teachers are essential to the clinical practice internship, a graduation requirement for all EHHP education majors. Serving as a model, guide and mentor, cooperating teachers have a significant influence on the interns’ future teaching styles and professional attitudes. Barbara Ferson (pictured) is a kindergarten teacher at Laurel Hill Primary. Ferson who graduated from the College’s M.A.T. in early childhood education program is in her third year as a kindergarten teacher. Ferson is an excellent role model as a “lifelong learner.” Ferson’s excellent organizational and teaching skills – with the help of parent volunteers – result in students experiencing meaningful learning opportunities. Always seeking development for herself as a professional, Ferson is implementing Smartboard technology and Lucy Calkins’ Writing Program in her classroom this year.
Thank you to all of our cooperating teachers; we could not have a comprehensive, nationally accredited teacher education program without your hard work and dedication!
Alumni Notes Professional Achievements and Personal Milestones
1970s L. Cherry Daniel (B.S. ’75) has been named executive director of the South Carolina Charter Virtual School. Cherry also serves on the College of Charleston Board of Trustees. Colin J. Smoak (B.S. ’78) was featured in the 2008 Profiles in Business section of the Charleston Regional Business Journal for his work with McLaughlin and Smoak. Renee McCord Sanders (B.S. ’79) was named Florence School District 5 Teacher of the Year 20082009 and was a finalist for the S.C. Teacher of the Year. Renee is a biology teacher at Johnsonville High School in Florence, S.C. 1980s Mary C. Goodale (B.S. ’82) graduated from Southern Wesleyan University in Decem ber 2007 with a master’s in education. She and her two sons, Donovan and
Anderson, live in Liberty, S.C. Jane Schuler (M.Ed. ’84) was named Berkeley County School District Teacher of the Year 20072008. Cheryl Myers Allran (B.S. ’86) has received her National Board Certification for Middle Child Generalist. Melissa Schroder Weir (B.S. ’87) has joined Charleston Area Therapeutic Riding of Johns Island as an instructor. 1990s James L. Harper (B.S. ’90) was promoted to Lt. Colonel in the U.S. Army Reserves in the military intelligence branch. Harper and his wife, Diana continue to reside in Altamonte Springs, Fla.. Wendy Caldwell Richardson (B.A. ’90) was named Orangeburg Consolidated School District Five Teacher of the Year 20072008.
Frances C. Welch, Ph.D.
A native of Richmond, Va., Sara Davis, Ph.D., moved to Charleston 38 years ago to teach high school English at St. Paul’s High School on Yon ges Island. Davis came to the College in 1993 and initially taught the curriculum areas of human growth and development, technology, as sessment and secondary English. She has also directed two M.A.T programs and currently serves as director of the Center for Faculty Development. Davis will be leading the School’s National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education reaccreditation process through 2011. In her free time, she enjoys kayaking, reading, drawing, traveling and working with animals. She and her husband Chuck have wel comed three rescued dogs and five rescued cats into their home.
Originally from Michigan, Meta Van Sickle, Ph. D., has been at the College since 1992 and has taught over 20 teacher education courses. Her research has been published in professional journals with topics ranging from instructional strategies for atrisk stu dents to teaching in a multicultural context . Her area of expertise is science education, so helping to coordinate the creation of the M.Ed. in science and mathematics and acting as director of the program have been among her most fulfilling endeavors. In her spare time, Van Sickle enjoys singing with the Charleston Sym phony, weightlifting, bowling and visiting gardens and other natu ral sites.
PROGRAM NEWS
Collaboration at Camp Hope During the summer of 2008, the Center for Partnerships to Improve Education (CPIE) became an involved partner and added an educational component to Camp Hope. Camp Hope is an evening summer enrich ment program for atrisk students at Fraser Elementary School that was originally proposed by City of Charleston Police Chief Greg Mullen. The program was developed in 2007 by a task force composed of vari ous community leaders in Charleston, and its main purpose is to provide positive experiences for atrisk youth in the city. Over 20 different organizations contribute to the success of the camp. The free, fiveweek camp benefited youth between the ages of 7 and 14. Every evening of the camp began with a meal and was followed by activities ranging from health and sports to academics, motivation and cultural arts. This year, CPIE became involved in the program to provide educational services, focusing on the areas of reading and math. Reading activities included readalouds, creating storybooks and making story quilts. Math activities included topics such as telling time, counting money, learning shapes and reviewing math facts through flashcards. Graduate students, faculty and staff volunteered their services in this effort and saw progress with the students’ knowledge and skills in both reading and math. Evaluations of the educational components are conducted through CPIE to assess and improve upon the success of this year’s efforts as part of the planning process for next year’s program. Paula Egelson, director of CPIE, emphasized that as the program moves forward, it will be “important to maintain direct contact with students to see how they are doing, what their needs are and how we can support them.”
New Department of Teacher Education The School of Education, Health, and Human Performance (EHHP) has adopted a more unified structure with the melding of the School’s two former teacher education departments, Educational Foundations, Secondary, and Special Education and Elementary, Early Childhood, Middle Level Education into the Department of Teacher Education (TEDU). Meta Van Sickle, Ph.D., has been appointed the chair, and mu tindi ndunda, Ph.D., the associate chair of the new department. Frances C. Welch, Ph.D. serves as the dean and Sara Calhoun Davis, Ph.D., serves as the associate dean of the School.
Van Sickle sees many advantages to the creation of the new department and believes its structure will “ensure faculty members’ voices are heard, offer great opportunities to develop new degree and certificate programs, and meet the educational needs of the Lowcountry and state as a whole.” Davis agrees, the “shared expertise of a larger, diverse group has the potential to enhance learning experiences for our teacher candidates and provide creative, new teaching, research and service opportunities for faculty and teacher education candi dates.”
Cassandra Norvell (M.Ed. ’91) was named Charleston County School District Teacher of the Year 20082009. Lisa Pickett (B.S. ’92) is a respiratory therapist stationed at Travis Air Force Base in California and has completed several tours to Iraq and Afghanistan. She has one child, Cameron. Darin Rice (B.S. ’92) was named Greenwood School District Fifty Teacher of the Year 20082009. Frances D. Ridgell (B.S. ’92) and Robbie Clair (B.A.’98) announce the birth of their daughter, Rivers Bea in 2007. Fran is the guidance director for Baptist Hill High School in Hollywood, SC, and Robbie is a glass artist with works in galleries throughout the Southeast. Shayne Whitaker (B.A. ’92, M.A.T. ’96) was named Beech Hill Elemen tary School Teacher of the Year 20072008.
Jennifer Callahan Sauer (B.S. ’93) was named Dorchester School District Two Teacher of the Year 20082009. Shirley R. Hinson (B.S. ’94) has been named director of government relations at the College. She was previously the director of corporate and community relations with the Lowcountry Graduate Center and served in the S.C. House of Representatives from 1995 until 2007. Kelly Bearden (B.S. ’95, M.A.T. ’01) was named Berkeley County School District Teacher of the Year 20082009. Jacqueline Rogers Foster (B.S. ’95) and her husband, Bill, welcomed their son Reece William into the world on February 25, 2008. The Fos ters live in Greenville, SC, where Jacque owns Moxie Media, Inc., pub lisher of Upstate S.C.'s, The Little Black Book for every busy woman.
PHILANTHROPY NEWS
Left to right : (1) emcee for the night, Tom Crawford and three of the 14 Jeremy Warren Vann Scholarship winners. Lache Russell, Felicia Habersham and Elizabeth Rogers Joyner; (2) Jeff and Diana Johnson and Karen Schmelter; (3) Mary Helen Dantzler, Missy Haigh and Louise Allen .
Jeremy’s Scholarship Gala The Chuck and Sara Calhoun Davis Foundation and the School of Education, Health, and Human Performance hosted the first annual Jeremy’s Scholarship Gala with dinner and live and silent auctions at the Blacklock House on March 13, 2008. The Gala raised $28,000 to support the Jeremy Warren Vann Memorial Scholarship, which funds senior and M.A.T. teacher education students who have demon strated financial need. (It is used during their clinical practice semester.) The evening featured entertainment by the Lee Barbour Trio and delicious food stations provided by Hamby’s Catering. Mark your calendars for next year’s gala — March 12, 2009!
Alumni Notes Cont. Jennifer Middleton (B.S. ’95) was named Charleston County School District Teacher of the Year 20072008. Amy McLaurin Lynch (B.S. ’96) and her husband Levin, welcomed their first son Levin Davidson Lynch Jr. in September. Lynch is a senior oncology sales representa tive for SanofiAvenis. Jennifer P. Wilks McKeown (B.S. ’96) and her husband Wriley, welcomed new son William Crawford on January 28, 2008. The family continues to live in Charlotte, N.C. Stacey R. Schultz Roarty (B.S. ’96) and her husband Don, announce the birth of their daughter Samantha. Stacey is director of the AT&T Premier Client Group in Balti more, Md. Melissa Ford Vagts (B.S. ’96) was married to James Vagts on April 19, 2008. She is currently a pediatric speechlanguage pathologist with Coastal Therapy Services in Mount Pleasant, S.C.
Noel Cowan Brown (B.S. ’97) and her husband Chip, have opened a doggie daycare and luxury pet hotel called Brown Dog Lodge in Memphis, Tenn. They have two sons, Cowan (5) and Walt (3). Cheryl A. Moniz (M.A.T. ’97) has joined Trident Literacy Associa tion as director of marketing and public relations. Jennifer Gause Glenn (B.S. ’98) has earned a master of educa tion degree from Winthrop University. Sarah E. SwillingNunn (B.S. ’99) and her husband Samuel, an nounce the birth of their son Hayden. Sarah is a stayathome mother. Millicent Bowen Varnadoe (B.S. ’99) and her husband Jason, welcomed their first child, Fisher Shaw. They currently reside on St. Simons Island, Ga. where Millie is a thirdgrade teacher.
The Power of Giving What does it take to have a prosperous life? To Lou and Pam Tisdale, it means giving some of your pros perity away. They believe the benefits you receive by sharing your wealth make you a wealthier person.
This idea of prosperity consciousness is reflected in how the Tisdales lead their lives – from volunteering for East Cooper Meals on Wheels to giving to the School of Education, Health, and Human Performance. “If there is something that you want, then you have to give something away first,” Pam explained.
The Tisdales have made a strong commitment to share their prosperity with the College of Charleston. A few years ago, they decided to leave their annuities to the College to fund scholarships in the form of a planned gift. This gift will have a tremendous impact on the lives of future students. It will form an endowment to fund scholarships for South Carolina students who are in financial need.
Making a planned gift to the College of Charleston was a natural step for Pam. Her connection to the College began in 1977 when she de cided to accept an assistant professor position here. She was teaching in a public school in Denver when she heard about a position in the Department of Education and was convinced to make the move once she heard of the College's recent growth and potential. Pam served as the first dean of the School of Education from 1988 to 1994. During her career, she witnessed the positive impact scholarships have on teacher education students’ access to college and their reduced debt after college. The Tisdales’ spirit of giving back ensures that future students are able to attain a college degree, and then give back themselves.
Putting the School of Education, Health, and Human Performance in your will is one way many friends and alumni discover they can make a substantial and lasting gift to help advance our School. There are many planned giving possibilities including trusts, bequests, and insurance options. We can assist you in documenting your intention to strengthen the School with a gift from your estate. For more information, contact Bridget Bettelli at 843.953.8050, [email protected], or EHHP, College of Charleston, Charleston, SC 29424.
2009 Advocates for Education
Junior Advocate ($25 – $99) Your name listed in Connections newsletter Invitation to EHHP lecture series Advocate ($100 – $249) Junior Advocate benefits plus Invitation to the EHHP holiday reception Complimentary subscription to College of Charleston Magazine Star Advocate ($250 – $499) Advocate benefits plus Invitation to a lunch with a guest speaker Silver Star Advocate ($500 – $999) Star Advocate benefits plus Invitation to the annual Jeremy’s Scholarship Gala (benefits the Jeremy Warren Vann Memorial Scholarship) Gold Star Advocate/Dean’s Circle ($1,000 and above) Gold Star benefits plus Invitation to a private dinner party with the dean Your name featured on a plaque in the EHHP building
PHILANTHROPY NEWS
Advancing K12 education is a commitment Lee and Ann Higdon made during their time at the
College of Charles ton. Through their support of the teacher education program, they con tinue to uphold this commitment as “advocates for edu cation.” Although the Higdons are now
the president and first lady of Connecticut Col lege, they are still very much involved with the School of Education, Health, and Human Per formance at the College of Charleston. It was only fitting that the Higdons hosted a reception at their home in downtown Charleston in March to kickoff the newly formed Advocates for Edu cation group. Advocates for Education is the annual giving soci ety that benefits the School of Education, Health, and Human Performance (EHHP). Members re ceive invitations to EHHP events and recognition in the newsletters but, most important, are con tributing to the advancement of the teaching profession, which will in turn have a significant impact on student achievement in South Caro lina. According to the Center for Public Educa tion, student achievement is more heavily influ enced by teacher quality than by any other fac tor, including students’ race, economic status,
prior academic record or school. The Higdons realized this desperate need for highquality K12 education in South Carolina, and this begins with educating highquality teachers. "My husband and I believe that great teachers inspire their students to achieve great things, not only for themselves, but also for their communities. The College of Charleston's School of Education, Health, and Human Performance has demonstrated its ability to produce inspira tional teachers and, as such, is a vital resource for the entire region. We are happy to support the school in this mission," notes Ann Higdon. The school graduates about 250 teacher educa tion students a year, and many of these students go on to teach in South Carolina. The school also partners with several local underperforming schools to provide tutoring, resources and the professional development necessary for their students to achieve. EHHP is grateful for every gift from alumni, par ents and friends. Advocates for Education was established to recognize these donors for their philanthropy. All of our advocates make it possi ble for EHHP to continue its mission to develop educators and health professionals to lead a di verse community of learners toward an under standing of and active participation in a highly complex world.
Advocates for Education: Lee and Ann Higdon
2000s Anthony Dixon (B.S. ’00, M.A.T. ’01) is the principal of Memminger Elementary School in Charleston. Brittany Meyers (B.S. ’01) has accepted a position as assistant director of annual giving with The Citadel Foundation. Adrienne Besenbach (B.S. ’02) was named Dorchester School District Two Teacher of the Year 20072008. Kristy R. Clayton Coakley (B.S. ’02) was married to Matthew Coakley in Summerville, S.C., on December 15, 2007. She is employed with The Bank of South Carolina. Sonya Fordham (M.Ed. ’02) was named Clay Hill Middle School Teacher of the Year 20072008.
Retha M. Jones (B.S. ’02) earned a masters in education from Columbia College and recently graduated from Winthrop University as a specialist in school psychology. Sharonda Squirewell Johnson (B.S. ’03) was named Fairfield County School District Teacher of the Year 20082009. Jermel L. President (B.S. ’03) is the executive director of the DAE Foun dation. Jermel is a nominee for the Jefferson Award, honoring individu als for their community service. He is also serving on the College's Alumni Board and Cougar Club Board. Lara Borja (B.S. ’04) was named Knightsville Elementary School Teacher of the Year 20072008. Thomas B. Connelly (B.S. ’04) is the athletic director for the City of Hanahan Recreation Department. He currently lives in Summerville, S.C.
Exceptional Teacher Recognized with Gift Since 2006, the College of Charleston has invited all seniors to nominate P12 school teachers who have played an important role in their precollegiate lives. Lisa Dougherty, a gifted support teacher at Hillendale Elementary School in Chadds Ford, Penn. was the recipient of the 2008 Teacher Recognition Award for the School of Education, Health, and Human Performance. Dougherty was given two $1,000 checks, one of which was donated to Hillendale Elementary School. In addition, the UnionvilleChadds Ford School District matched this $1,000 cash award, enabling Hillendale Elementary to purchase a SmartBoard for Dougherty to use in her class room.
FACULTY NEWS
Introducing New Faculty and Staff
Bridget Bettelli joins the school as the de velopment officer after graduating from the College of Charleston in 2006 with her Master of Public Administration degree. An Isle of Palms native and Cougars basketball fan Bet telli also received her B.A. in corporate com munication and B.S. in elementary education from the College in 2003.
Martha Bireda, Ph.D., joins the school as a visiting associate professor in the Center for Partnerships to Improve Education. With over 30 years of experience in the field of education and communication, Bireda works to promote academic achievement in African American and other minority students, and to eliminate racial disparities in this discipline. As the Changing the Face of Teaching coordi nator, Floyd Breeland works with the Call Me MISTER and the Volpe Fellowship pro grams to address the critical shortage of Afri can American male teachers in S.C. Breeland worked in education for 33 years and is retir ing from the S.C. House of Representatives this year.
Megan Burgess joins the Center for Ad vancement of New Literacies in the Middle Grades as their administrative specialist. Originally from Greenville, S.C., Burgess at tended the College of Charleston and fell in love with the city and the school, deciding
af ter graduation in 2008 to stay and get some work experience “behind the scenes.”
William Leroy Hills, Ph.D., returns to the Department of Health and Human Perform ance as a visiting assistant professor. Hills taught at the College from 19731987, serv ing 10 years as department chair. An ordained Episcopal priest, Hills has been on the Board of the Medicine and Ministry Conference since 2005 and enjoys woodworking in his free time.
As an assistant professor in the Department of Teacher Education, Maria Manning, Ph.D. hopes to contribute to the school by engaging students through effective teaching methods and her unique perspective within her research in Asper ger’s Syndrome. She was born in England, grew up in Texas and joins the College from James Madison University. Kelley Mayer, Ph.D., joins the Department of Teacher Education as an assistant professor spe cializing in early childhood education. Mayer ob tained her Ph.D. in early childhood, families and literacy from UNC Chapel Hill and taught kinder garten for five years in public schools. Merle Tamsberg, Ph.D., joins the Department of Teacher Education as a visiting assistant pro fessor, having been with the department since 2004 as an adjunct professor. Currently teaching Introduction to Education, Human Growth and the Education Process, and supervising clinical practice, she enjoys working with current and future teachers on curriculum, planning and teaching skills. Todd Weiss joins the Department of Health and Human Performance as a visiting assistant profes sor. A former athletic trainer with the College of Charleston, Weiss teaches therapeutic exercise and lab along with special topics in athletic train ing. Whittney Wernsing works as the student ac tivities coordinator for the Center for Partner ships to Improve Education, coordinating the tutoring and summer enrichment programs in their four partnership schools. Originally from Raymond, Ill., Wernsing previously served the City of Charleston in the Mayor’s Office for Children, Youth & Families through AmeriCorps.
Alumni Notes Cont. Lindsay Whittington Creech (B.S. ’04) and Stephen Creech were married on July 14th, 2007 and are living in Columbia. Lindsay is a speechlanguage pathologist with Richland School District 2. Laura L. Funderburk (B.S. ’04) is a training and curriculum specialist for the Depart ment of Defense at Ft. Rucker, Ala. She married Doug Kornacki in October 2007. Abby L. Henry Sawyer (B.A. ’04) married Philip Sawyer on December 9, 2006. Abby teaches American literature at Waccamaw High School on Pawleys Island. Courtney L. Collins Rogers (B.S. ‘05) was married to Ashley Rogers on November 17, 2007 in Pawleys Island, S.C. Courtney is currently pursuing a master of education degree from Coastal Carolina and is employed with the Horry County School District. Lisa M. Ackerman Ferguson (M.A.T. ’06) was married to John Matthew Ferguson on December 8, 2007 and is currently teaching first grade at the Daniel Island School. They live in Charleston.
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Aline Smith Bullwinkle Lauren Holden Bank of America Audrey Witt Colonial Dames Powder Magazine Stevan Harris Monica Lofe Lindsey Strobel Goizueta Fellows Kerri Maughon Steven Nagy Jeremy Warren Vann Kathleen Clair Mary A. Lee Kate Mungo
Matthew Scott Ciganovic Audrey Witt Monica Janas Audrey Witt Nathan E. Miles Christy Barrow Dori D’Aloisio Kacy Hucks Rebecca Clayton Kathleen Clair Sharon Stella Holbert Mary Worrell Teaching Initiative Dori D’Aloisio Volpe Fellowship Stevan V. Harris
STUDENT NEWS
Scholarship Recipients 20082009
Department of Health and Human Performance: Poster Session and Lecture Students from the Department of Health and Human Performance presented their research at a poster session on October 24 prior to Jaci Van Heest’s lecture. Senior Robert Hensley (pictured at right) presented his research entitled, “Reliability and Validity of a Handheld Dyna mometer (Lafayette Manual Muscle Testing System®) in Assessing Joint Muscle Strength.” Robert is majoring in Athletic Training and plans to attend physical therapy school after gradua tion. Johannes Aartun, Whitney Frail and Kristi Brinkley also presented their research.
Jaci VanHeest, Ph.D., an exercise endocrinology specialist and associate professor at the University of Connecticut, presented a lecture about the effects of physical activity on academic achievement and the PawPALS program.
Student Spotlight: Steven Nagy The School of Education, Health, and Human Performance is proud to introduce Steven Nagy as the 2008 recipi ent of a Goizueta Fellows Scholarship. Nagy grew up in Columbia, South America; his father was a school superin tendent and administrator, his mother a kindergarten teacher. Following in his parents’ footsteps, Nagy is cur rently an elementary education major with a passion for education. “Education for me does not only revolve around the classroom. Education does not only involve what’s in the best interest of your students, but what’s in the best interest of the community in which your students are being taught.” Also a forward on the College of Charleston soccer team, Nagy was named to the 20072008 Southern Conference Academic Honor Roll for his exceptional GPA.
MoveIn Day for New Teacher Education Students The School of Education, Health, and Human Per formance hosted a dropin for new teacher educa tion students and their families on August 23 and 24. While taking a break from moving into the resi dence halls, the students and their families enjoyed lunch in the Alumni Center and met Dean Frances Welch, faculty and staff members and fellow teacher education students. Claire Nicolato (2nd from left), a freshman teacher education student
from Saugertias, N.Y., was accompanied by her grandmother Donna Dana (on left), class of 1978, and her parents.
Alumni Spotlight: Monte Lee
Monte Lee (B.S. ’00) has been named the head baseball coach at the College of Charleston. A former College of Charleston baseball standout, Lee was drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals in the 1999 MLB draft. Inducted as an inaugural member of the College of Charleston’s Baseball Wall of Fame at Pa triots Point Stadium in 2004, Lee joins the Cougars from the University of South Carolina where he served as assistant coach for six years. When asked how he became interested in coaching, Lee re plied, “I have always wanted to do it. As far back as I could remember, I wanted to coach and teach.” Lee enjoys spending his free time with his wife of 12 years, Kelly, and his two daughters, Madie, 12 and Shelby, 9.
UPCOMING EVENTS
PAID Permit No. 149 Charleston, SC
Laura Griffin Memorial 5K Run/Walk Date: Saturday, January 17, 2009 Time: 8 a.m. Location: 66 George Street, Charleston The run is held in memory of Laura Griffin, the former director of the Office of Substance Abuse Prevention at the College who was fatally struck by a drunk driver. The run is dedicated to healthy lifestyles, the prevention of substance abuse and pedestrian safety. Contact: 843.953.5558, [email protected]
Wild Dunes Club Author's Luncheon Date: Saturday, January 17, 2009 Time: 11 a.m. Location: The Sweetgrass Pavilion at Wild Dunes Resort Enjoy a plated lunch and panel discussion with notable authors Billie Letts, Mary Alice Monroe, Bret Lott and Mary Kay Andrews, with guest moderator Marjory Wentworth. This event also features a silent auction and book signing. Pro ceeds benefit EHHP (scholarship for a diverse teacher education candidate) and Trident Liter acy. Tickets: $50 each or $500 (table of 10). Con tact: [email protected], 843.886.2020
Reception for Memminger Elementary Date: Wednesday, January 28, 2009 Time: 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. Location: President’s House, 6 Glebe Street EHHP and the Office of the First Lady will host a reception to present gifts collected from the College community to the school and to welcome new principal, Anthony Dixon.
Volpe Fellowship Reception Date: Thursday, February 26, 2009 Time: 5 – 7 p.m. Location: Avery Research Center, 125 Bull Street Less than one percent of elementary school teachers in S.C. are African American males. The Volpe Fellowship seeks to provide tuition funding for African American male teacher education candidates and ultimately raise student achievement in S.C. The purpose of the reception is to raise awareness and funds for the Volpe Fellowship. Guests will enjoy drinks and heavy hors d'ouevres.
Lecture Series – Dan Kindlon, Ph.D. Date: Tuesday, March 3, 2009 Time: 5 p.m. Location: Stern Student Center, 71 George Street Join us for an interesting lecture “Tough Times, Strong Children,” followed by a reception and book signing. Kindlon is a clinical and research psychologist at Harvard University specializing in behavioral problems of children and adolescents. The focus of this lecture will be resilience and coping in children.
Jeremy's Scholarship Gala Date: Thursday, March 12, 2009 Time: 6 –10 p.m. Location: 28 Bridgeside, Mount Pleasant The gala will benefit the Jeremy Warren Vann Memorial Scholarship, which funds prospective teachers’ tuition during their clinical practice semester. The gala includes a silent and live auc tion, cocktails and heavy hors d'ouevres.
www.ehhp.cofc.edu • 843.953.5613