John Dewey High School Teacher Chung Chan of Brooklyn to Receive Clarkson University Award

POTSDAM, NY (04/30/2014)(readMedia)-- Chung Chan of Brooklyn, N.Y., motivates his students to achieve great success. Chan is one of four recipients of this year's Clarkson University Inspirational High School Educator Award.

The history and economics teacher at John Dewey High School in Brooklyn, N.Y., was nominated by former student Wuli Liu of Brooklyn, N.Y., a senior electrical engineering honors program major at Clarkson. The award will be presented on May 9 during Clarkson's commencement weekend activities.

Each year, Clarkson asks its seniors to nominate the secondary school educators who have significantly affected their lives and helped guide their higher education and career decisions. The award recognizes these educators for their lasting impact on their students and in their fields of education.

Early in the spring term, graduating seniors submit their reasons for choosing their nominees, how they influenced them and actual situations in which they showed themselves to be outstanding educators.

Liu said that it was an honor to nominate Chan for his hard work and sacrifice and that he changed her life. Without him, she says that she doesn't think she would have come to Clarkson.

"I came to the U.S. when I was 15 and went to school in Brooklyn," said Liu. "I knew only that English had 26 letters and that my new environment was scary. In Mr. Chan's classes, I learned American and world history -- and how to adapt to a very different culture.

"He stressed the importance of attending college and recommended schools outside New York City as, 'the best way to know more about America.' And then, he helped me prepare.

"He gave me free SAT tutoring, he checked my essays written for other classes and for college applications. He was my consultant and counselor. And he was always there for me and other students, too. I don't think he ever went on vacation. Instead, he devoted his time to help students have a better life.

"Now, because of Mr. Chan, I'm a graduating senior who's been offered a full-time job in engineering.

"The best educator cares about his students' futures, he inspires them and helps them reach their full potential. Mr. Chan, you helped me understand the American dream. You set the foundation to achieve my dreams. My accomplishments honor you. Thank you for being an inspirational educator and an example -- and a friend, too."

Clarkson University launches leaders into the global economy. One in five alumni already leads as a CEO, VP or equivalent senior executive of a company. Located just outside the Adirondack Park in Potsdam, N.Y., Clarkson is a nationally recognized research university for undergraduates with select graduate programs in signature areas of academic excellence directed toward the world's pressing issues. Through 50 rigorous programs of study in engineering, business, arts, sciences and health sciences, the entire learning-living community spans boundaries across disciplines, nations and cultures to build powers of observation, challenge the status quo, and connect discovery and engineering innovation with enterprise.