May 3, 2010

DWU graduates 195; Rocky VonEye awarded Clarke Award

Dr. Rocky VonEye accepts the Clarke Award for Teaching Excellence Saturday from DWU Provost Amy Novak and local businessman John Clarke.

MITCHELL — As friends and family gathered to recognize Dakota Wesleyan students’ achievements Saturday during commencement, a small crowd sat off to the side in recognition of a faculty member.

Near the end of the proceedings, local businessman John Clarke stood to bestow the annual Clarke Award for Teaching Excellence upon a surprised, teary-eyed Rochelle “Rocky” VonEye. Through a choked sob, she almost laughed while accepting the award, noting her family sitting off to the side and telling the audience she didn’t think they knew anyone graduating this year.

VonEye, professor of mathematics, is also the college dean for the College of Healthcare, Fitness and Sciences. She earned her Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees from South Dakota State University in mathematics and computer science and her doctorate is from the University of South Dakota. She has been teaching at DWU since 1985 and has also been assistant academic dean and acting vice president for academic affairs.

Previous awards she has received include the Presidential Award for Excellence, and a Kellogg National Leadership Fellowship.

DWU graduated 195 students Saturday at the Corn Palace, as well as honoring 1971 alumnus David Jackson with an Honorary Doctor of Arts degree. Jackson has helped numerous people in their pursuits of education and upon acceptance of his award he encouraged others to give back to their communities and help others.

Senior class president Thomas Madut also recognized the campus community and those who have helped him succeed personally, pointing out specifically how grateful all should be for the opportunity of an education.