CONTACT: Lisa Lacher, 515-271-3119, lisa.lacher@drake.edu
The Drake University Annual School of Education’s Alumni Awards and Senior Recognition Dinner pays tribute to three dedicated educators who reach beyond the classroom to benefit the community.
This year’s outstanding educators will be honored Thursday, March 8, along with the School of Education’s undergraduate class of 2007. The reception will begin at 6 p.m. followed by dinner and a program at 6:30 p.m. in Parents Hall, Olmsted Center, 29th Street and University Avenue.
Awards will be presented to:
• Tom Andersen, of Des Moines, who earned master’s degrees from Drake in 1973 and 1988 and works for the Iowa Department of Education as a consultant for Equity in School Improvement.
• Judge Constance Cohen, of Clive, who earned her bachelor’s degree from Drake in 1972, her master’s degree from Drake in 1977 and her juris doctorate degree from Drake Law School in 1986. She serves on the Iowa Juvenile Court bench and previously taught elementary school and was an administrator.
• Jim Heslop, of Banning, Calif., who received his bachelor’s degree from Drake in 1954 and retired as assistant superintendent of the Banning School District in 1989 and serves as a consultant to the district.
“All three awardees are life-long educators who have taken their passion for education beyond the classroom to have an impact on the community around them,” said School of Education Dean Janet McMahill.
In addition to the awards presentation, the dinner will feature a keynote address by Steve Larson, senior technical learning consultant for Pioneer Hi-Bred International Inc. In his 13 years at Pioneer, Larson has held positions in the human resources and information management divisions in various management, consulting and learning/development roles. He is currently responsible for technical development and skill enhancement for employees in the company’s research division.
The evening is made possible by a generous gift from Helen Schott, a 1942 Drake graduate, and her late sister Marie Hasch, a 1946 Drake graduate.
The cost is $25 per person. Reservations may be made by contacting Tracy Bainter at 515-271-2183 or tracy.bainter@drake.edu.