Two Receive Clarkson University Inspirational Educator Award
Two educators nominated by Clarkson University students were honored as the 2025 Clarkson University Inspirational Educators at the University’s Commencement Saturday.
The award recognizes these educators for their lasting impact on their students and in their fields of education.
Tara Arnold, an english language arts teacher at East Aurora High School in East Aurora, NY, was nominated by Julia Patterson, a senior from East Aurora, NY majoring in Engineering and Management
“What makes Mrs. Arnold so inspirational is her unwavering dedication to her students—both in and out of the classroom,” Patterson said in nominating Arnold. “She wasn’t just a great teacher because of the content she taught, but because of the life lessons she instilled in us along the way. She inspired confidence, resilience, and curiosity. Her energy and positivity were contagious, and she led by example in everything she did. Whether it was mentoring student clubs, cheering on athletes at games, or just being a trusted adult students could talk to, she constantly showed how much she cared.”
Gregory Funck, a secondary math teacher, Roxbury Central School in Roxbury, NY, was nominated by Brett Morrison, a senior from Roxbury, NY, majoring in Electrical Engineering.
“Mr. Funck's commitment to mathematics and imparting his knowledge onto me in capacities that exceed the normal high school curriculum set me onto a path of mathematical prowess that has proved to be of great worth to me as an Electrical Engineer,” Morrison said in nominating Funck. “He challenged me in unique ways to grow as a student despite my great aptitude in his teaching area, ensuring my ability to solve difficult problems later in my academic career. He stressed the importance of collaboration and respect among classmates and teammates, imparting lasting values such as discipline, patience, and accountability. These qualities have proven essential as an engineer, who has worked in groups profusely throughout his time at Clarkson and will continue throughout his career.”
