The Professional

We are wise to look back before moving forward. In my second year as the dean of the College of Education and Human Services, I have learned of the historical significance of our programs. However, our ability to update academic offerings and adapt to changing times will help us maintain our leadership position within higher education. Central Michigan University has a rich teaching history. I cannot count how many people have told me they attended the old CMU lab school as children. We're fortunate to get a firsthand perspective from Virginia Hensley, '45, an alumna who shares vivid memories of her early school days there. As a career teacher herself, those days must have been inspiring. If our Finch Fieldhouse walls could talk, you'd get a host of stories about the sports, concerts and happenings that helped shape our school's history. Finch recently received a facelift, keeping its character intact while making it a bit more welcoming for everyone using the facilities. You should read more about it in these pages and drop by for a visit. Within EHS we are constantly celebrating tradition while building upon it. "Threads, Best of the Best" from October 2013 is another shining example. This first-ever fall fashion show brought back alumni designers to showcase their threads in our EHS Building. The sold-out, student- run event also coupled two wonderful The Professional is published by Central Michigan University's College of Education and Human Services. Editorial Board Dale-Elizabeth Pehrsson Professor and Dean Produced by University Communications and College of Education and Human Services Dan Digmann Editor Melissa Beauchamp, '13 Morgan MacDermaid William Meiners Darryll Stinson, '13 Contributing writers Trevor Grabill, '10 Designer Robert Barclay Peggy Brisbane Danielle Duval Steve Jessmore, '81 Photographers The Professional is printed at CMU Printing Services. This is printed using vegetable inks on NewPage Gusto Satin paper. NewPage Corporation's commitment to responsible forestry and environmental practices is verified by the numerous certifications carried by the company. Address questions and suggestions to: Office of the Dean EHS Building 426 Central Michigan University Mount Pleasant, MI 48859 CMU, an AA/EO institution, strongly and actively strives to increase diversity within its community (see cmich.edu keyword: AAEO). UComm 8912-53,000 (2/14) D e a n 's L e t t e r programs – our new Recreation and Event Management program and our hallmark Apparel Merchandising and Design program. With the help of some extremely dedicated faculty advisors, the show was a huge hit. And perhaps the best news: the event raised just a hair shy of $19,000 for student scholarships. It's amazing what dedication, creativity and interdisciplinary efforts can inspire. I see more and more of this throughout our college. And it's certain to be the wave of our future. That future includes a Learning Commons in the EHS Building that will enhance our role as technology leaders. Expanding programs in Teacher Education and Professional Development, along with a new Ph.D. in educational leadership, will continue to distinguish us as the teachers of teachers – this many years after our 1892 founding. This issue of The Professional offers a few stories on where we've been and where we're going. I hope you find it a pleasing read and join us on the ride. Living, Learning, Leading Go paperless Let us know if you'd prefer to receive future issues of The Professional newsletter electronically. Simply send your current email to jorda1rr@cmich.edu, and check your inbox each fall for exciting news about your college programs! Ta k i n g p ro u d t ra d i ti o ns f o r wa rd 2 February 2014 • the professional Dale-Elizabeth Pehrsson, Professor and Dean College of Education and Human Ser vices Congratulating education graduates at December commencement

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