Elaine Gallagher was a proud graduate of the class of 1951. For forty years, Ms. Gallagher taught in the Chicago Public Schools with a commitment and zeal that were wonderful testimony to the education she received at Saint Xavier University. She modeled the University core values of service and learning for life.
As a seventh and eighth grade science teacher, Ms. Gallagher believed that science was an interesting and exciting subject, and she shared her enthusiasm for the world of nature with her students. After earning her master’s degree in Education, Ms. Gallagher continued to take courses in science as a learner for life and a teacher who always sought creative ways to enrich her students’ education. Courses at Brookfield Zoo and other science centers provided new areas for exploration with her students.
Ms. Gallagher was an energetic and enthusiastic person. She loved to read and to travel and she used those passions to expand her horizons and those of her students. An active member of the SXU Alumnae Association, she enjoyed attending concerts, plays, and lectures at Saint Xavier University. She remained connected with the School of Education, keeping in touch with the latest developments in the field. She gave generously of her time to her school, volunteering on committees and mentoring new teachers.
She gave generously of her time to her community, volunteering as a minister of care in her parish. Ms. Gallagher continued to fulfill her responsibilities until a week before her death. Asked why she continued as her energy was sapped by her struggle with cancer, she replied, "They count on me."
Ms. Gallagher was a woman who made a mark on the world. Her good deeds were done quietly and without fanfare, yet she used her gifts and talents to make a difference in the lives of thousands of students, hundreds of colleagues, and a host of friends. She lived out the mission of Saint Xavier University that calls upon her graduates to "enhance lifelong learning, foster personal growth, and develop leadership qualities."
Ms. Gallagher believed that her education at Saint Xavier University was instrumental in her success as a teacher and provided scholarship funds so that others could follow in her path. It is a path that follows the mission of the University and the School of Education, the heritage of the founding Sisters of Mercy, and the example of thousands of proud graduates of the School of Education. It is a path that has service and love of learning at its core and the gratitude of those who follow at its end.
The Committee of the Elaine Gallagher Science Education Scholarship seeks to honor Ms. Gallagher by assisting an admitted School of Education (except MATL) student who possesses the service and learning for life qualities of Elaine Gallagher. The scholarship is a tuition grant of approximately $1,600 available to students who are science majors in secondary education or students in early childhood or elementary education or graduate programs who may teach science at any level.
The 2009 tuition grant of approximately $1,900* has been awarded to Ms. Denise Corral of Oak Forest, IL, a graduate student in the Elementary Education program. Ms. Corral's recommender described her as conscientious and thorough, "always keeping in mind the need to go above and beyond expectations."Her colleagues with whom she worked at the Lincoln Park Zoo praised her "conceptual abilities, work habits, ability to work independently...and genuine desire to learn about the world around her."They commended her dedication to providing an exceptional science experience for hundreds of students. The Scholarship Committee recognizes Ms. Corral's enthusiasm for teaching Science, love of learning, and demonstration of service -- qualities that Ms. Gallagher exemplified in her life.
*Exact amount of tuition grants depends on available funds from endowments and individual student’s account status.
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