U nderstanding Charlotte “Charlie” Wallinga’s impact on her students is as easy as looking at the Outstanding Teacher plaques that hang in Dawson Hall. In 1983, 1988, 1996, 2000 and 2004, Wallinga was named Outstanding Teacher of the Year for both the Department of Human Development and Family Science and the College of Family and Consumer Sciences.
Wallinga directs undergraduate and graduate programs in the Child Life Emphasis, a program that prepares students to become certified child life educators in hospitals, helping to alleviate the stress of hospitalization for children and their families. During her tenure, she also has served as the CFD undergraduate coordinator and director for the Head Start Program housed in the Child Development Lab of the McPhaul Center.
But to understand Wallinga’s impact, it’s best to read the comments from the many students who have taken her courses or worked with her as an advisor.
Amy Hough-Simmon (PhD ’04, Human Development and Family Science) says, “Dr. Wallinga is dedicated to knowing her students extensively so that she may encourage them when they are unsure, push them when they are stagnant, and celebrate them as they evolve.”
“Dr. Wallinga is my most memorable professor,” according to Elise McKnight (BSFCS ’05, Human Development and Family Science), a child life specialist in the pediatric and neonatal intensive care unit of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. “She always had a great story, a funny joke, and always made the time to listen to you and help you. She truly inspired me and led me to a career that I love.”
Make your nominations for the |
 |