Thiel College recognizes Sharpsville teacher as a top science education professional

GREENVILLE, Pa.-- Jeffry Sposito, who teaches psychology and U.S. government at Sharpsville Area High School, has received recognition for his outstanding dedication to mentoring and educating students. He was honored at the third annual Thiel College Mentor of the Year Awards.

• See more photos from the event.

Sposito was nominated for the 2024 Patrick Hecking, Ph.D. High School Science Educator of the Year Award by Thiel sophomore English major Muncie Canon ’26 and first-year student and criminal justice major Autumn Blair ’27. Sposito, Canon and Blair are pictured above.

“Mr. Sposito truly cares about his students and teaches in a way that is fun and exciting and makes his lessons memorable,” Canon said. “Also, students appreciate that he takes time out of his personal life to support students at school activities and sporting events.

“He made a difference in my life because he made learning Psychology fun,” Blair said. “He is the reason I want to minor in psychology in college. His teaching method helped me learn in his class and has stayed with me here at Thiel.”

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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