Myrliss Hershey

is honored with a Medium Paver from The Professional Advocates of Gifted Education.

A tiny atom embodies immeasurable power and energy. Myrliss Hershey epitomizes that atom in human form. Enthusiasm, animation, and exuberance with an intellectual overtone are examples of her positive influence upon generations of students and educators. She has the ability to create a classroom environment where each individual feels accepted at his or her own comfort zone. When Myrliss teaches, no one finds excuses to leave early.

Those of us in PAGE I (Professional Advocates for Gifted Education) were among the "pioneer" teachers of gifted education in Kansas. The concept was new. There was no set curriculum. Many educators, both teachers and administrators, believed gifted education was just another frill. If ignored, it would go away.

As a result of Dr. Myrliss Hershey's leadership and role modeling, we were able to internalize the concept of differentiated education which often resulted in successful teaching techniques needed for a unique teaching situation. Dr. Hershey realizes that learning occurs in an atmosphere of trust and acceptance. She establishes that atmosphere wherever she teaches, be it in a classroom, an individual conference, an international convention, or an informal luncheon.

Myrliss A. Hershey graduated Tabor College with a B.A. in Elementary and Music Education in 1951. She received an M.S. with emphasis in gifted education from Emporia State University in 1965. In 1976, Kansas State University conferred a doctorate in education upon Myrliss. Her teaching career encompasses a wide spectrum, from elementary classroom instructor through elementary counselor to Associate Professor of Gifted Education at Wichita State University. She is a prolific writer, having published numerous articles in various journals of education. She has authored several books. Myrliss continues to be in demand to conduct seminars and in-service training. She is sought after to present workshops at conferences.

Through the presentation of this stone, we have endeavored to honor our dear friend and mentor. Her influence will be felt for many years to come as teachers who learned from her teach the next generation, who in turn will teach the next generation.

Our closing thought paints a one word picture of a truly great educator. She often has signed correspondence to us in this manner: optimistically, Myrliss.

June 23, 1999