Thiel College recognizes Derry High School teacher as a top education professional

GREENVILLE, Pa.-- Debra Bushey, who teaches business at Derry Area High School, has received recognition for her outstanding dedication to mentoring and educating students. She was honored at the third annual Thiel College Mentor of the Year Awards.

Bushey (above left with Assistant Director of Admission, Graduate Counselor Morgan (Steiner) Bodnar ’16 MBA’21) was nominated for the 2024 The High School Educator of the Year Award by Thiel first-year student and business administration major Cydney Wierzbowski ’27.

• See more photos from the event.

“Through my involvement in student government, I got to know Debra Bushey, not only as great teacher, but for being an amazing person,” Wierzbowski said. “She was always there for students, and she leaves an impact wherever she goes, no matter how big or small. Mrs. Bushey is the type of person I hope to become.”

The event recognizes extraordinary professional and civic contributions, celebrating the deep connections they foster within the community. Overall, six educators and six professionals from the arts; business; media, science, technology, engineering, math; education; and were recognized this year.

“Many of us fondly recall a teacher who influenced our college choice or career path,” said Thiel College President Susan Traverso, Ph.D. “The Mentor Awards is an opportunity to recognize those mentors and role models who profoundly motivated a Thiel student.”

2024 Mentor of the Year Professional honorees:

• James Pedas Communication Professional: Lindsey Watson, News Anchor, WKBN
• Simon Chiu Science Professional: Mark Marmo ’93, CEO, Deep Well Services
• Leah Dever Women in STEM Professional: Susan Calderbank, D.M.D., Director of Patient Care, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine School of Dentistry
• Gary Witosky Business Professional: Dotun Akinwale Jr. ’13, Assistant General Manager, Charlotte Hornets
• Thiel College Education Professional: Corey Russell ’07, Principal, Euclid High School
• Thiel College Leadership in the Arts: Dr. Louis Zona H’18, Executive Director, Butler Institute of American Art

In addition to these professionals, six educators were recognized as Mentors of the Year in various categories, demonstrating Thiel College's commitment to fostering mentorship and excellence in education.

2024 Education Mentors of the Year:

• Sarah Taylor-Rogers Women in STEM: Miranda Callihan, Karns City High School
• Patrick Hecking Science Educator: Jeffry Sposito, Sharpsville High School
• Sandy Parker Business Educator: Scott Weaver, Reynolds High School
• Jim Cunningham ’77 Media Mentor: Matthew Gehly, Greenville High School
• Thiel College Education Professional: Debra Bushey, Derry Area High School
• Thiel College Performing Arts Mentor: James Dutko, Jamestown High School

Related Link

• Thiel College Academic Programs

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