Talarico Named Alpha Sigma Nu Teacher of the Year

            Vanessa Silla-Zaleski Talarico, Ed.D., associate professor of education at The University of Scranton, has been named the 2011-12 Alpha Sigma Nu Teacher of the Year. The award, formally known as the Gannon Award, in honor of Fr. Edward Gannon, S.J., is the oldest teaching award at the University. Established in 1969 by the University’s chapter of Alpha Sigma Nu, the national honor society for students in Jesuit colleges and universities, the award recognizes outstanding teaching among faculty. Student members of Alpha Sigma Nu select the professor to be honored.

           
            Student officers of the honor society presented Dr. Talarico with the award at the society’s induction ceremony, attended by more than 250 faculty, staff, parents and inductees recently on campus.

            The citation read at the ceremony included comments submitted with ballots, such as “Dr. Talarico cares for each student [and is] committed to excellence.” Another wrote that “she is so willing to go above and beyond for any student.” Several students noted that she has served as a chaperone on international service trips, illustrating her commitment to students’ development outside as well as inside the classroom.

            A native and resident of Pittston, Dr. Talarico joined the faculty of The University of Scranton in 2005. She earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University and a doctorate in education from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. She is a board-certified behavior analyst and also holds certifications as an elementary school counselor and in special education.

            She is author of many articles published in academic journals, including Leadership and Organizational Management Journal, and has presented at professional meetings, such as the International Conference on Education, Economy and Society in Paris.

            The Scranton chapter of Alpha Sigma Nu was founded in 1943 and is the oldest honor society at The University of Scranton. Juniors and seniors who have distinguished themselves in scholarship, loyalty and service are eligible for membership.