Liz Fauber
Liz Fauber, a senior in the elementary education program through the University of Wyoming/Casper College (UW/CC) Center, recently was presented with the Sue Jorgensen Excellent Student in Education award.
The 15th recipient of the honor, Fauber obtained scholarship funding from John Jorgensen, husband of the late educator whom the award memorializes. The funds were matched by the Board of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES).
Fauber earned her associate's degree in education in 1997. After graduation, life took her in a different direction, and she worked for five years as a manager at Sam's Club before moving to Texas. While there, Fauber worked with an autistic child for two years, rekindling her desire to teach. So when she moved back to Wyoming, with a family to care for and a commute from Midwest, she enrolled as a nontraditional student in the elementary education program through the UW/CC Center.
Fauber is completing her residency in teaching at Sagewood Elementary School, where she instructs a fifth grade classroom under mentor teacher Shawn Galles.
"Teaching is so enjoyable," said Fauber. "Being up in front of the kids and watching them learn, and seeing their excitement when they understand, it's a good feeling."
Galles commented, "I have found Liz to be a very dedicated teacher.
Her enthusiasm and compassion helped drive my students to be more successful in the classroom. My students loved her positive presence and looked forward to her lessons."
Jorgensen created the award in 1996, honoring UW/CC Center education students who earn a minimum 3.5 grade point average, exhibit professional disposition toward mentors and peers, contribute to the education field through leadership and community service, and display a positive attitude to promote excitement and curiosity about learning.
Fauber was nominated and unanimously selected by the UW/CC Center's education faculty and staff.
The distinction is one of the center's highest honors bestowed upon prospective teachers. It was established by Jorgensen to pay tribute to the memory of his wife and the first coordinator of the teacher education program through the UW/CC Center, Sue Jorgensen.
"Sue was a tremendous advocate for students who wanted to get an education," recalled Jorgensen at the recent award ceremony. "She turned out good teachers here in Casper, who are now helping other students to become good teachers."
Brent Pickett, associate dean and director of the UW/CC Center, acknowledged the special role that Sue played in education and leadership. He also spoke of the role of others in furthering educational opportunities in the Casper area.
"We deeply appreciate John and his support to UW/CC Center students in education, as well as BOCES, who has helped to support our elementary education program in the past, and who is now assisting both our technical education and secondary science education, biology programs," Pickett said.
Fauber in May will graduate from the UW/CC Center with a bachelor's degree, and hopes to teach in the Natrona County School District.
