Dr. Joseph Nadeau congratulates Heidi Berkey

Heidi Berkey '05, a senior elementary education/American studies major, was recognized last month as one of 16 New Jersey Commissioner's Distinguished Teacher Candidates.

Starting college in 1973 with a minor in education, Berkey intended to pursue her lifelong dream of becoming a teacher. Her plans changed when she left to marry and have children.

Upon reentering the workforce, Berkey launched a successful career in retail management yet four years ago she began to reevaluate her life and decided to pursue her dream, enrolling at Rider. Last month, Berkey, who is now a grandmother, was recognized as one of 16 New Jersey Commissioner's Distinguished Teacher Candidates.

She received such distinction May 6 at the State Department of Education. Rider's department of teacher education nominated her.

"Heidi is passionate about learning," said Dr. Suzanne Gespass, associate professor of teacher education. "She is able to make connections between what she has learned and how this knowledge and the tools of studying literature, history, sociology and psychology can make her a better teacher. Her intellectual curiosity, work ethic and leadership abilities will serve her well in the classroom. She embodies the characteristics of an exemplary teacher."

Berkey received a bachelor's degree in elementary education/American Studies from Rider on May 13. She maintained a 4.0 grade point average, was named to the dean's and national dean's lists and an Andrew J. Rider Scholar. Her field experience has included student teaching at Van Zant Elementary School in Marlton, Dutch Neck and Village School Elementary schools in Princeton Junction; Stony Brook Elementary in Hopewell and Wilson Elementary School in Hamilton.

“It was truly an honor to be nominated but to be one of the recipients is truly spectacular and extremely rewarding,” said Berkey. Attending the ceremony with the other very deserving recipients was inspirational. The energy in the room was tremendous.

“My Rider University experience has helped me to understand the importance of being a reflective learner and teacher. It was especially wonderful to share the experience with my parents, Dr. Carol Brown, Dr. Jean Warner and Dr. Suzanne Gespass, whom I consider my mentor and friend. From my American Studies classes, I developed a true understanding of the American cultural experience and from my education classes, I learned how to apply my knowledge to the classroom using research-based teaching strategies. As a proud Rider graduate, I am well prepared to begin my journey as a teacher. My goal is to make the world a better place, one child at a time.”

Return to top