The Department is pleased to announce that three MA students have been awarded Robert T. Henderson Scholarships for their work in the field of TESOL.
Born in Colombia, Mariana Aristizabal has a BA in Foreign Language Teaching and is completing her MA in Applied Linguistics and TESOL at Pitt. Her Henderson scholarship which will allow her to continue working towards providing better Language Education in Amazon region of Colombia. The former Fulbright scholar has dedicated her time at Pitt to research on English Teaching and Learning as a tool to empower the Indigenous identity and promote the revitalization of Indigenous languages. The funds provided will be destined to send didactic materials and relevant literature to the Amazon. Also, to connect the awardee and her students with important international organizations such as the TESOL international association and the Living Tongues Association.
Dylan Ashton is currently working towards his MA in Applied Linguistics with a focus in TESOL, in addition to pursuing an ESL Program Specialist Endorsement. Before coming to the University of Pittsburgh, Dylan taught French in Pennsylvania Public schools and English as a Second Language through the Fulbright program in France. While at the University of Pittsburgh, Dylan has worked with the English Language Institute where he has led language courses for both matriculated students of the university and students in the Intensive English Program. Upon graduating, he hopes to continue a long and fruitful career in TESOL while advocating for English Learners in Pennsylvania Public Schools.
Janet Asbury decided to pursue her master’s degree for the opportunity to have another career after retirement. She worked in the University of Pittsburgh’s Office of Admissions and Financial Aid for 18 years and completed her undergraduate degree while working there. Janet’s interest in TESOL began with a general interest in adult literacy, and after her third part-time semester in graduate school, I started volunteering as an ESL tutor for Literacy Pittsburgh. She feel strongly about improving literacy and support for immigrants and refugees. Janet has lived in the Carrick neighborhood of Pittsburgh for over 20 years and currently shares her house with one of her adult daughters and a grandson.
Congratulations, Janet, Dylan and Mariana!