Blinn College professor recognized for excellence in developmental education

Essie Childers honored with Carol Dochen Professor of the Year in Developmental Education Award

November 9, 2017

Blinn College Humanities Professor Essie Childers recently was honored with the Carol Dochen Professor of the Year in Developmental Education Award at the 2017 College Academic Support Programs (CASP) Conference.

“I am always humbled to receive an award from my colleagues who are also teaching developmental education students,” Childers said. “I have the opportunity to work with a lot of first year students, and to help guide and shape their learning, so it is exciting to watch them grow on their academic journey."

 The professional development award is named for Dr. Carol Dochen, a key founder of CASP. CASP is comprised of Texas higher education professionals in the fields of learning support, developmental education, student services, and first-year experiences. It is sponsored by the Texas Association for Developmental Education (TADE) and the Texas chapter of the College Reading and Learning Association (TxCRLA).

“She works tirelessly to support student success and uses a variety of innovative strategies to engage students,” said Dr. Pat Westergaard, Dean of Humanities. “Her experience in teaching Blinn College’s success course gives her insight into the needs of underprepared students, and is a role that comes naturally to her.”

In addition to the award, Childers received a $500 scholarship to be used for professional development within one year.

Now in her 11th year at Blinn, and 31st year teaching, Childers is a graduate of the University of Texas at Tyler and Abilene Christian University, and recently completed a graduate certificate of adult learning with Walden University. She is a former board member of CASP, past president of The Texas Community College Teachers Association, graduate of the first Blinn College FutureWorks Academy, and serves on the Quality Enhancement Plan Committee at Blinn College.