Ohio Middle School Association Names UA Professor as 'Educator of the Year'

Akron, Ohio, May 13, 2003 The Ohio Middle School Association (OMSA) selected Dr. Janet Litzel, clinical instructor and co-director of extended educational experiences at The University of Akron, as its Educator of the Year.

Litzel accepted the award at the organization's annual state conference held at the John S. Knight Center in Akron. The award is presented to an exemplary OMSA teacher, administrator or parent who promotes the middle school concept.

Dr. Elizabeth Stroble, dean of UA's College of Education, says this award mirrors Litzel's many achievements.

Just as Dr. Litzel has made noteworthy contributions as a middle school educator, she provides significant leadership in teacher education and professional development in partnerships between the College of Education and area schools, Stroble says. We are proud of her accomplishments.

Litzel received a master of science degree in elementary administration and a doctoral degree in educational administration from The University of Akron, which recently honored her with a College of Education Distinguished Alumni Award. She has had an outstanding and respected career as a public school teacher and administrator in the Copley-Fairlawn City Schools from 1970 to 1994, followed by two years as middle school principal for Chagrin Falls Exempted Village Schools.

Her career at The University of Akron began in 1991 as a part-time instructor in graduate education. In addition to serving as co-director of the College of Education's Office of Extended Educational Experiences, she is a liaison and professional development coordinator for Coventry Local Schools. She is faculty advisor to the campus student organization Akron Council of Education Students and received the excellence award from Omicron Delta Kappa for outstanding service to University of Akron students.

Litzel is education director for the Akron Aeros Baseball Association, and a former member of the Educational Advisory Board of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. She is an OhioReads volunteer tutor for Akron Public Schools and serves on the advisory board of the Ohio Middle School Association, which has twice honored her as an Outstanding Middle Level Educator. She has been a consultant for staff development for numerous school districts including Akron City, Cuyahoga Falls, Tallmadge, Field and Streetsboro.

Litzel resides in Akron with her husband, Jack, who is superintendent of the Cuyahoga Falls City School District. They have five daughters and two grandchildren.