HIGHLAND HILLS ––– Three Cuyahoga Community College professors have been honored for achievements in teaching by Ohio Magazine and will be acknowledged in the publication’s December 2008 issue. This special recognition is a part of Ohio Magazine’s 2008 Excellence in Education program. The professors are from each campus of Tri-C and are joining the ranks of 150 top Ohio college and university professors who have been identified as leaders in their profession this year.
William Whetsel, Assistant Professor Visual Communication and Design at Tri-C East
"Receiving this recognition has been quite an honor," states Mr. Whetsel, a Mentor resident. "To be considered one of the outstanding educators in the State of Ohio validates my effort as an educator to make Visual Communication and Design a meaningful experience for my students.”
Before his career as a Tri-C professor, Mr. Whetsel first discovered his passion for teaching while working as a creative communication consultant where he helped companies and non-profit organizations utilize computer technology to become more competitive in their respective industries. Because he enjoyed the teaching aspect of what he was doing so much, he decided to take his career to the next level. Five years ago his career path took him to Tri-C where he has helped develop program curricula and is teaching all aspects of Tri-C’s Visual Communication and Design program.
Dr. John Thomas, Assistant Professor Veterinary Technology at Tri-C West
Dr. Thomas has been very instrumental in the success of the Veterinary Technology Program at Tri-C. Through his leadership, knowledge and input as a faculty member, the College’s Vet Tech program has grown tremendously since its inception. An innovator, he has developed video study guides, established the Animal Care Project for students, as well as authored a chapter in a Veterinary Technician textbook. His students have often commented on the excellence that Dr. Thomas brings to the classroom; they feel he is an outstanding instructor and a superb motivator.
“To be identified as one of the state’s top educators is a privilege,” states Dr. Thomas, a Westlake resident. “This distinction couldn’t have been achieved without the students – they really make teaching easy. Their enthusiasm for learning has fed my passion for education.”
Dr. Roberta Hendrick, Associate Professor English at Tri-C Metro
Dr. Hendrick began her teaching career with Tri-C on part-time basis in 1997. In 2002, she became full-time faculty at the college where among her teaching duties she was also the faculty coordinator for ESL (English as a Second Language). In this position, Dr. Hendrick has been a resource and advocate for students to persist and continue learning, even after they have completed taking ESL courses. She approaches her work with vigor and enthusiasm and it shows in her relationships with students and colleagues.
“I am thrilled to be associated with my colleagues in this distinction,” said Dr. Hendrick, a Lakewood resident. “The recognition we each received reflects what a wonderful place Tri-C is to work. We do what we do because of the students.”
Dr. Hendrick earned the Ohio Magazine recognition as a top scholar for the caring, competence, and dedication she shows in her work with students and colleagues and has earned the respect of her peers by being actively involved in her profession and in the community.
The December issue of Ohio Magazine with each Tri-C professor profile, as well as a feature story on higher education will hit the newsstands the week of November 17. For more information about Tri-C’s programs, visit www.tri-c.edu.