Two New York educators — both NYSUT members — will be inducted into the National Teachers Hall of Fame as part of the class of 2015.
Richard T. Ognibene, a chemistry and physics teacher at Fairport High School near Rochester, and Patricia Jordan, who taught high school math for 29 years on Long Island and in New York City, will be inducted on June 12 in Emporia, Kan.
"New York state has long been recognized for its excellent public school teaching force and Richard Ognibene and Patricia Jordan represent the gold standard of our profession," said NYSUT President Karen E. Magee.
Both Jordan and Ognibene are former New York State Teachers of the Year, honored in 1993 and 2008, respectively.
Ognibene was also the recipient of the 2002 American Chemical Society Teacher of the Year Award and the 2006 Fairport High School Crystal Apple Award for excellence in teaching. He has served as an adviser to his district's Gay Straight Alliance and is an active member of the Fairport Educators Association.
A retired member of the Roslyn Teachers Association, Jordan's classroom experience includes teaching computer science and special education. Following her retirement, she became a practicing clinical psychologist. She co-founded and administers the Juanita James Memorial Scholarship Foundation, established in memory of her mother. The organization provides financial assistance and mentoring to college students from housing projects in the Bronx, of which Jordan is a native.
"Richard Ognibene and Patricia Jordan exemplify the professionalism of our union and the dedication and commitment our members have for their students, profession and the future of public education," said Magee. "NYSUT could not be more proud."