Theresa Pierce
Program Graduate; NC American History Teacher of the Year (2009)

"The state department of public instruction was very impressed with the quality of the writing that I submitted for the North Carolina State History Teacher of the Year award. I credit the quality of the classes I have taken at Catawba College for raising the bar for my writing. The professors at Catawba have taught me how to express myself in a professional manner. Three years ago, I was very timid about even using a computer. The master's program has taught me more than I ever imagined. It has been the most rewarding professional experience of my career.” 

• Pierce Named 2009 NC American History Teacher of the Year
• Catawba Alumna and Teacher of Year Bonds with Students

Lydia Mack
Teaches in Davidson County (Title I Lead Teacher at Fair Grove Elementary)

"I feel that the education I received during my time at Catawba was more than just theory. It was knowledge that I could apply in my everyday life as an educator. Since graduating from Catawba, I moved from being a kindergarten teacher to a reading specialist for first through fifth graders. Earning an add-on licensure in reading made this move possible. My experience at Catawba prepared me with the knowledge and confidence to work with a variety of students, parents, co-workers, and community members in a leadership position."

Kimlen Dennis, Kimberly Efird and Ann Miller
Friends and Coworkers from Stanley County; National Board Certified and Working on Earning Master of Education

"I started the grad program at Catawba in the summer of 2009," Dennis, an AIG teacher remembered. "Ann [Miller] was thinking about going to UNCC, but she talked to me about Catawba and I shared what a good program it is. She started Catawba in the fall of 2009 and Kimberly Efird joined us in the summer of 2010."

Miller, a kindergarten teacher, explained her reasons for enrolling like this:  "It wasn't until one of the ladies here at the school began the program at Catawba that I took interest. I had thought about a master's, but didn't know if I could handle all of the classes. I wanted to learn about the new ideas in education and enhance some of the ideas I've learned in workshops all of these years. I had begun master's classes before graduating as an undergraduate and had often thought of finishing."

Miller noted that the program structure and affordability sold her on pursuing her degree. "I liked the way the program was structured. I only had to focus on one class and be away from home one night a week. That worked into my schedule perfectly. Sure, it may take a little longer than other programs, but I could easily complete this program and still do what I needed to for my family. The cost is the other factor. I searched other programs and I couldn't afford to pay for them without taking out college loans."

AIG teacher Kimlen Dennis also researched other programs before selecting Catawba's. "After researching several graduate programs, I felt Catawba's grad program best met my needs. The program is ongoing and teachers, who are accepted, can join at anytime. In some colleges, you have to wait until they begin the next program or cycle."