2001 The College of New Jersey Outstanding Educator Award

* Valedictorian 1989 High Point Regional High School
* BA Mathematics 1993 Douglass College of Rutgers University
* MS Mathematics 1998 Montclair State University

* Mathematics Teacher - Morris Knolls High School 1993-present

* Classes taught: Calculus, Geometry A, HSPA 9/10, Algebra 1, Algebra 2, Math 2, Algebra 1M
* Extracurricular activities: Advisor to the Math Club and Math Team
Assistant Junior Class Advisor

"I was so truly honored to receive this award during the first year that I was eligible to be nominated. The nomination came from both a colleague and a student in my very first Calculus class and I was so pleased to be recognized from two arenas of the school population. I grew up in a household where teaching was a way of life. I learned the dedication, time, and creativity involved in being a good teacher from the many members of my family who work in education. My philosophy of teaching has been based on attitude and action and is ever evolving and changing. A positive attitude is the single most important characteristic required to be an effective teacher. I try to always look for the best in each student and every situation. I want my classroom to have a fun, comfortable atmosphere where everyone is contributing their best effort socially and academically. By looking for new and "zany" ways to present material, I hope my energy and enthusiasm for math is contagious. The process of learning how to learn is a lifelong skill my students will need and I hope I help them on their journey. I want my students to leave my classroom with a better understanding and appreciation for mathematics and themselves as people and learners. If I am successful in that task then that is really all the praise and recognition I need."