George K. McGuire Award Winners

Beverly Gulley, Ph.D., Dean of the School of Education of Saint Xavier University, is proud to announce the winners of the 2007 George K. McGuire Awards. David Hollander has been awarded the George K. McGuire Award. Alyson L. Kelley has been awarded the McGuire undergraduate Student Award.

Dr. George McGuire was known as a caring and humane person, a thoughtful speaker, a focused listener, and a generous teacher.  Each year, the School of Education celebrates the contributions of the late Professor McGuire by recognizing an alumnus for distinguished service to Saint Xavier University and the field of education. In addition, a $100 gift certificate to the SXU Bookstore is presented to an undergraduate student who exemplifies the qualities of Dr. McGuire.

This year, the School of Education recognizes David Hollander with the George K. McGuire Award. Nominated by Dr. Eileen Quinn Knight, Mr. Hollander earned a MA in Education in 1989. He has taught at Kennedy Junior High School in Lisle, IL, since 1991. Mr. and Mrs. Hollander and their two children live in Naperville, IL.

In describing his teaching, Mr. Hollander said:

"I know kids are required to attend school...[but] their attention can’t be demanded in the same way. You have to make them want to be a part of the classroom, want to be there to learn. So I try to engage them physically and mentally through debate and discussion."

His outstanding achievements as a teacher were recognized by the Golden Apple Foundation when he was named a Golden Apple Award winner in 2005.

Mr. Hollander’s enthusiasm for service is reflected in his work as a coach, Cubmaster, and active volunteer in church, civic, and community activities. His participation in local theatre productions enriches his teaching as he brings elements of drama and role-playing into the study of historical events.

Mr. Holland’s career in education is a reflection of the goals of the Conceptual Framework: preparing scholars, lifelong learners, leaders and reflective professionals who are dedicated to the pursuit of excellence. He is an enthusiastic spokesperson for the Saint Xavier University School of Education program, noting:

"At Saint Xavier they ask hard questions about what you intend to do in the classroom, because they want you to be the best teacher you can be. At Saint Xavier, they don’t have a cookie-cutter method for how to be a teacher."

As the McGuire Award winner, Mr. Hollander will be honored as a Distinguished Alumnus at the 2007 Homecoming Ceremonies at Saint Xavier University. Respected by his colleagues, revered by his students, David Hollander joins an august group of men and women who reflect the qualities of a beloved teacher, scholar, and gentleman - Dr. George McGuire.

Allyson Kelley is an undergraduate student in the elementary education program. Nominated for the McGuire Student Award by Dr. Holly Mackley, with the nomination supported by Dr. Maureen Spelman, Ms. Kelley is a conscientious student who asks thoughtful questions; considers the instructional needs of all of the students with whom she worked in her field experience; and demonstrated leadership by developing a power point presentation on group interactive models of teaching for her classmates. Her recommendations stated that Ms. Kelley reflects dedication to teaching and learning by designing lessons that are aligned to state standards while also being creative and motivating.

Allyson Kelly demonstrates the qualities that are celebrated in honoring an undergraduate student who will continue the legacy of Dr. McGuire.

Members of the Student Affairs Committee thank all who submitted nominations. Those nominated will remain in consideration for future awards.