For Amber Doniere ’11, it was a chance to honor her late grandmother, Carol Doniere, media specialist in the Cumberland County Schools for more than 40 years, for the values and life lessons passed along to her granddaughter.
For Nancy Vacc ’85 EdD, it was a shout-out to friend and colleague Dr. Ed Uprichard, former UNCG provost and dean of the School of Education, to recognize “his special skill of fostering a sense of community based on trust, respect, and open, honest dialogue.”
And for the Howard family, it was a tribute to Sandra Howard ’93 EdD’s success in instilling in her students — and her children — a work ethic that would serve them well in their careers.
Carol Doniere, Dr. Ed Uprichard, Dr. Sandra Howard, and 45 other names now appear on nameplates on the first-floor wall of UNCG’s School of Education Building. This first class of Inspirational Educators was honored at a dedication ceremony held on April 14. Eventually, the School of Education wants to honor 1,000 outstanding teachers, college professors, and other educators who have made an impact through their life’s work.
Groups or individuals can make a nomination for a donation of $1,000. The nominees — teachers, professors, principals, counselors, librarians, deans, or administrators — will be recognized at a ceremony next spring. Nominators and nominees do not have to be affiliated with UNCG.
The money raised by this initiative will support generations of UNCG students through an endowment fund that will provide scholarships within the School of Education.
“We’re trying to elevate the profession of education,” says Dr. Randy Penfield, dean of the School of Education. “We want to honor people who have made a difference in others’ lives, and we’re raising funds for people who want to go into the education profession.”
To nominate an Inspirational Educator, visit go.uncg.edu/inspirationaleducators or call Kim Kaufmann, alumni relations and events coordinator, at 336-334-4668 for more information. Nominations for the next dedication ceremony close on Dec. 31, 2019.
By Christine Garton