Last Updated on May 27, 2021 by Cass County Community Foundation
Pictured above left to right: Michele Starkey, Logansport Superintendent, Melanie lang, Franklin Assistant Principal, Michael Miller, Franklin Principal, Jennifer Rosenberger, Billman Award recipient; Deanna Crispen, CCCF president & CEO; Lisa Swaim, CCCF Board Chairman.
The Cass County Community Foundation today announced Jennifer Rosenberger as the recipient of the first “Elizabeth A. Billman Excellence in Teaching Award” during the end of school year awards at Franklin Elementary School.
Deanna Crispen, CCCF President & CEO and Lisa Swaim, Board Chairman made the announcement and commended Rosenberger for her devotion to her students, colleagues, professional development, and community. Crispen said, “Elizabeth Billman was an educator, administrator, mentor and role model for young women and teachers. When we thought about ways to honor her legacy, this award, to encourage teachers early in their careers, was the result and we know Liz would be proud we are continuing her legacy through the award.”
Rosenberger who teaches second grade at Franklin was nominated by her principal, Mr. Michael Miller who said of her, “one of her strongest attributes is her devotion to her students.” His nomination shared that Jennifer has students with incredibly diverse needs, yet she does not allow the bar to be lowered for her second graders, instead challenging the students to rise and they leave her classroom in May devoted to her. He said, “one fourth grader inquired if she could visit Ms. Rosenberger in the morning, “because nobody loves me like she did”-expressing that Jennifer was the first teacher who made her believe in herself.”
The award was established earlier this year to honor Billman. Elizabeth had served faithfully on the Board of Directors of the Cass County Community Foundation for a period of 16 years, serving two terms as Chairman of the Board of Directors and was on the Board of Directors at the time of her passing.
Mrs. Billman retired as principal at Thompson Elementary School. She also taught in the Southeastern School Corporation, beginning her teaching career at Washington Township School. She was a member of the Lewis Cass Alumni Association where she received the Distinguished Service Award. Liz served in the Southeastern School Corporation for 38 years.
Rosenberger was selected for the award from a pool of nominees submitted by elementary building principals of grades K-6 from all county schools, who most exemplify Elizabeth’s commitment to the students under her care, as well as embodies her thirst for knowledge, learning, and commitment to community service.
The award consists of a $500 stipend for the teacher and a commemorative plaque. A permanent plaque has been designed will be located at the CCCF Office to honor each year’s recipient.
For more information or if you have questions, please contact Deanna Crispen, President & CEO, Cass County Community Foundation Inc. 574-722-2200.
SOURCE: News release from Cass County Community Foundation