Ms. Melissa Parr, an Architectural and Engineering Design teacher at Clearview Regional High School in Mullica Hill, New Jersey was nominated by Danielle Castley, a mechanical engineering major who is graduating from the College of Engineering for teaching her the importance of engineering student organizations, experiential education, and mentoring. “Due to her encouragement, I founded the Technology Student Association at my high school. Her passion for education was apparent every day when she brought enthusiasm and practical knowledge into the classroom. My diverse career and extracurricular experiences would not have been possible without Ms. Parr’s preparation.”

Ms. Lois Tyburski, a Biology teacher at Villa Joseph Marie High School in Holland, Pennsylvania was nominated by Caitlin Harvey, a culinary science major, who is graduating from the Goodwin College of Professional Studies for acknowledging the efforts of students in meaningful ways. She was an inspiration by simply doing what she loves: teaching. She organized and sponsored many field trips to encourage learning outside of the classroom. Her goal as a teacher was to motivate, inspire, and challenge every student who walked through her classroom doors. I, along with many of the other students who graduated from Villa Joseph Marie feel that she not only fulfills that goal, but surpasses it.

Ms. Joy Vander Vliet, an English teacher at Council Rock North High School in Newtown, Pennsylvania was nominated by Emily Pugh, a nursing major who is graduating from the College of Nursing & Health Professions for fostering a love of reading and writing in her classroom. She is an outstanding teacher who served as a true role model. “She encouraged me to follow my other passion and become a nurse.” She served as my mentor encouraging me to always love the written word, appreciate the value of education, and to believe in myself and my abilities.

Ms. Bethany Van Veldhuizen, a Math teacher at Phil-Mont Christian Academy in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania was nominated by Andrea Gould, an entertainment and arts management major who is graduating from the Antoinette Westphal College of Media Arts and Design for playing a key role in students’ personal development and college/career preparation. “Ms. Van Veldhuizen helped me to prepare for the SATs after school, offered guidance and support, and most importantly, “saw my potential and invested time in me.”