For nearly two decades, Roxanne Sorrick, Ed.D., head of teacher education and professor of education, has dedicated her career to the Hiram College community as a master teacher, reflective practitioner, curricular leader, and more. Most recently, she was named to the Crain’s Cleveland Business list of Notable Women in Education.
Recipients of the award are dedicated to creating and expanding learning opportunities for Northeast Ohioans of all ages, at all levels and in a host of fields. Their leadership, devotion and example are helping to shape a better future for our region and its people. Sorrick was nominated by the College for not only her leadership and dedication, but also her consistently thorough work that sets the standards for those around her.
With her drive to support and mentor students into education careers of their choosing, Sorrick took a leadership role in developing the educational studies major and minor, which offers students the chance to take coursework in foundational areas of education, while also working with their advisors to design an individualized area of concentration, specifically set up to prepare them for a career in education that is aligned with their interests
As the College’s Director of Assessment, Sorrick designed a system of analysis for each program within the College to undergo both internal and external review on a regular basis. Evaluations like such allow for the College to maintain the highest of standards with commitment to the liberal arts, and concretely show the institution’s dedication to helping students develop the skill set and mindset that will help them build a professional career and find their personal calling.
While at Hiram, Sorrick also has received the Paul E. Martin Award three times for her outstanding contributions to the College’s academic programs by introducing diversity to educational life and in faculty teaching models.
During the 2014-2015 academic year, which is within Sorrick’s time as Head of Teacher Education, Hiram’s Teacher Licensure program received OBR Performance Funding, consisting of an award totaling $184,330. As a result, she worked with others in the Education Department to apply a portion of the funding to implement a 1:1 mobile technology program for education students that provided them with an iPad mini when entering the required methods course within the major. This early iPad program set the education model for Tech and Trek. When the program launched during the spring semester of 2017, she worked closely with her colleagues to lead sessions for faculty and staff around teaching and learning with technology.
by Jenelle Bayus
