Education faculty honored
From ESU Media Relations
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Members of The Teachers College at Emporia State University received awards for their work Monday.
Three education faculty members and a much-valued employee were honored for their achievements at a beginning of the spring semester meeting of the college.
Janet Holland, associate professor in instructional design and technology, received the Excellence in Instruction award for her hard work at integrating current research-based best practices into a hands-on, authentic, learning environment. Colleagues reported Holland is always willing to share her techniques and newly created materials with her fellow pre-service technology instructors. As a result of her efforts, her student evaluations are frequently the highest in the department.
Jim Persinger, associate professor in psychology, art therapy, rehabilitation, and mental health counseling, was honored with the Excellence in Scholarly Activity award for placing a high value on work and research that has a direct impact on people’s lives. He currently works with three major textbook publishers to assure their products reflect best practices, and has helped to standardize several widely used assessment tools. The extent of his academic research includes peer-reviewed journal articles, presentations at the national, state, and local levels, and external and internally funded grants.
Vicki Worrell, associate professor in health and physical education, was recognized with the Excellence in Service award for her commitment to service, which is so well-known that a state-level professional organization has named their own service award after her. She recently completed a term as the president of the central district of the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance and is executive director of the Kansas chapter of that organization. Her efforts extend from the university, to her students and the community, and only her extensive resume provides a true picture of her commitment to service on all levels.
Sarah McKernan, administrative officer in dean’s office of The Teachers College, received the Darrell E. Wood Service Award. For 12 years, McKernan has worked in the dean’s office of The Teachers College and consistently conveyed a positive attitude and been a model for students and staff. A veteran of the U.S. Army who served in Desert Storm, McKernan graduated from ESU with a bachelor’s in art and in 2007 graduated from the Leadership Emporia class. For always taking the time to listen, access information quickly, and serve the college, university and community, McKernan was awarded the Darrell E. Wood Service Award. The award is given annually to an individual who has supported the mission of the college in a unique or outstanding manner.
Recipients were nominated by their respective academic departments and selected by a university-wide committee.
The awards were presented by Larry Clark, executive director of the Jones Institute for Educational Excellence, and Matt Seimears, chair of The Teachers College Dean’s Advisory Council.