New Jersey high school teachers Desmond Dunkley, Karen DiLollo, and Robert Smock were named Monmouth University-William B. Roberts Charitable Foundation Outstanding Teachers in recognition of their teaching achievements at an award dinner on May 14.
The award was instituted in 2006 by Life Trustee William B. Roberts to recognize outstanding secondary school teachers who have made an important contribution to the education of current Monmouth University students. Each teacher was nominated by a Monmouth University senior student for his/her remarkable teaching proficiencies and dedication to education.
Dunkley, a mathematics teacher at Long Branch High School was nominated by his former student Eileen Connair ’15, who earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration in May. According to Connair, “Mr. Dunkley is the kind of teacher that helps to change students’ lives for the better because he is enthusiastic about math, teaching and helping his students receive the type of education that they can use to their advantage in the future.” Connair described Dunkley as a true role model who “challenged us to try harder, to be better, and to expect more of ourselves.” Dunley received his bachelor’s degree in mathematics and computer science from the University of the West Indies, master’s degree in educational leadership and supervision from Georgian Court University, and MBA from Fairleigh Dickinson University.
DiLollo, a science teacher at Clinton Public School, was nominated by her former student Kristin Fiumara ’15, who received a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and anthropology in May. “Mrs. DiLollo was an outstanding teacher because she was passionate about chemistry and the success of each student,” said Fiumara. “Every student took something away from her class. This ‘something’ wasn’t just chemistry content, but she re-flamed the spark of motivation to succeed and learn.” DiLollo earned her bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Cabrini College and master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from the University of Scranton.
Smock, a physics instructor and science department consulting teacher at Morris Hills High School in Rockaway, N.J., was nominated by his former student Jacquelyn Mosca ’15, who received a bachelor’s degree in business administration in May. According to Mosca, Smock “went above and beyond for his students and used an out-of-the-box style approach to his teachings. He kept us motivated and thinking of other possible solutions or further obstacles in every experiment.” Smock received his bachelor’s degree in science education and physics from the Florida Institute of Technology and both his master’s and Doctor of Letters degrees from Drew University.
The selection committee included the Interim Dean of the School of Education Mary Brennan and Monmouth University professors and students. The teachers each received an award of $1,500.
For more information, contact Monmouth University’s School of Education at 732-571-7518.