Central Washington University Says Goodbye to Longtime Professor

ELLENSBURG, Wash. - Longtime Central Washington University professor of Education Dr. Don Black passed away Saturday, April 22, in Ellensburg. Dr. Black began his career at Central nearly 35 years ago. He retired in spring of 1998 and returned in fall of 2004 at the request of the College of Education and Professional Studies at CWU. Join us for a memorial honoring Dr. Black in the old SUB Ballroom Saturday, April 29, from 2-4 p.m.

At the time of his death, Dr. Black was finishing out his assignment with Central as the teacher education field experience and alternative certification coordinator in the College of Education and Professional Studies. An administrative exempt position, his new role was similar to what he had performed at Central for 13 years as a faculty member. "Don came back at our request to help us recreate something that hadn't existed for a number of years and to bring cohesion to our field supervision activities," explains David Shorr, Chair, Education. "He was planning on staying on through the summer to help train the new director of field experience."

Dr. Black was instrumental in growing future educators and building a close working relationship with schools. He always had the best interests of the students at heart and was passionate about immersing them into real-life teaching experiences. For many years, Dr. Black served as liaison between Central and school districts where CWU students were placed. "He delighted in going out and meeting K-12 principals and district offices," explains Shorr. ."One of Don's great accomplishments was creating student teaching opportunities overseas."

A professor at CWU for 27 years, Dr. Black retired in 1998 to pursue other interests and revel in freedom from the daily routine. That same year in recognition of his commitment to the university, he was awarded the title of Emeritus Professor of Curriculum & Supervision by the board of trustees. He was well known for his community involvement and participation in various faculty committees.

"Don was a very friendly man. He laughed a lot, was very student oriented and easy to work with," shares Shorr. "He was always concerned about the welfare of the department and the well being of faculty and students." Our hearts are with Don's family. He is survived by his wife Ann, five children and 11 grandchildren. He will be missed.

Contact: Teri Olin, CWU (509) 963-2127/fax: 509-963-2301/e-mail: olint@cwu.edu)

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