School of Professional Studies announces student and faculty awards

School of Professional Studies students and faculty were honored for their accomplishments at a May 20 awards ceremony that was held at the AC Hotel in Worcester as part of Clark University’s Commencement Weekend.

“It is fitting that the School of Professional Studies recognizes and celebrates faculty and students together since the school is distinguished by deep and ongoing collaborations between teachers and learners,” said John G. Labrie, dean of the SPS and associate provost for professional education.

Zoe Chakoian ’21, MSC ’22, was recognized with the Fern Johnson Award, which is given annually to an Accelerated Degree Program student who has excelled in academics, and who has also positively influenced their community. As an SPS peer adviser, she mentored other graduate students and helped them with important academic and professional tasks such as course registration and résumé review.

Vaishali Menon received the Laura Myers Community Service Award, given to a graduate student who has made significant contributions to the local community through their time, actions, talents, and dedication. She was honored for her contributions to Clark Women in Business and the American Red Cross, as well as for her passion and advocacy for diversity and human rights issues.

LaBrie also congratulated three faculty members who received awards based on votes by their students.

Dean Cascione, M.S. ’17, earned the Jonas Gilman Clark Award, which is awarded to a seasoned faculty member for effectiveness and creativity in teaching. Cascione joined the faculty after earning his graduate degree at Clark and is a previous recipient of the SPS Fiat Lux Award and the Semita Vitae (Path of Life) Award.

Edlira Stefani earned this year’s Fiat Lux Award, which honors an up-and-coming faculty member who is open to new ideas and approaches to teaching.

Marc Thuot received the Semita Vitae (Path of Life) Award, which recognizes an instructor who has demonstrated extraordinary conscientiousness and who inspires his students.