The program was held in conjunction with American Education Week.

The three local teachers were recognized for their work with Misericordia student teachers on assignment in the classroom. The nominations were made by Misericordia students. In addition, Joseph Rogan, Ed.D., professor of education at Misericordia University, was nominated by his peers for an award recognizing his outstanding work throughout his 30 years as a member of the faculty.

The classroom teachers honored were Colleen Edsell Williams, a 1993 graduate of Misericordia and a second grade teacher at Wycallis Elementary School in the Dallas Area School District; Barbara Zaborney, a sixth and seventh grade special education/learning support teacher from the Greater Nanticoke Area Education Center; and Daniel DelFine, a secondary social studies teacher from the Northwest Area School District.

“It is important to remember that our students need strong role models to help them hone their teaching skills,” said Sister Patricia McCann, RSM, Ed.D., associate professor of education and event co-chair. “Those we honored are among the best. They were nominated by the Misericordia students who work with them in the classroom on a daily basis.’’

Dr. Rogan of Eynon, Pa., holds his bachelor’s degree from Kutztown University, his master’s degree from Marywood University and his doctorate in education from Lehigh University. He completed post-doctoral work at Kansas State University. Dr. Rogan joined the faculty at Misericordia in 1979.

Dr. Rogan was recognized as being the founder of the Alternative Learners Project at Misericordia in 1979 to service the academic needs of students with learning disabilities. “Throughout his career, Dr. Rogan has served as an innovative educator and outstanding mentor to Misericordia students,” said Sister Pat. “In addition, outside the classroom he has headed up Misericordia’s Middle States accreditation team, and is involved with Pax Christi USA, a national Christian peace movement.’’

One of Misericordia’s most tenured majors, teacher education continues to reflect the values of the founding Sisters of Mercy: mercy, service, justice, and hospitality. The program seeks to develop teachers who are masters of the content they teach and provide instruction in ways that inspire students to learn.

The Division of Behavioral Science, Education, and Business at Misericordia University and its Teacher Education Department (TED) sponsor undergraduate majors in elementary education, special education, and in five areas of secondary education — biology, chemistry, citizenship (formerly social studies), English and mathematics. In combination with its elementary education major, TED also sponsors a certification program in early childhood education.

The faculty has developed an integrated program that combines elementary and special education. At the graduate level, TED has programs in elementary education, educational technology specialist and supervisor of curriculum and instruction. All of the university’s teacher education programs have been reviewed and approved by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and the Pennsylvania Department of Education.

Caption:

The Misericordia University Teacher Education Department honored three local educators and a member of the Misericordia faculty for excellence in education during a recent program that was held to celebrate American Education Week. Honoring the recipients, from left, are Jessica Cashner of Shickshinny, Pa., a teacher education student; Barbara Zaborney, Greater Nanticoke Area Education Center; Kristen Fry of Muncy, Pa., a teacher education student; Colleen Williams, Wycallis Elementary School; Daniel DelFine, Northwest Area School District; and Dr. Joseph Rogan, Misericordia University.