Dr. Barb Hansen honored for international work in invitational learning; Education Department receives grant for
research study

Dr. Barb Hansen, Dave Longaberger Professor of Teaching and Learning and Distinguished Professor of Education at Muskingum University, was recently recognized for her leadership in the International Alliance for Invitational Education (IAIE) , receiving the William Stafford Leadership Award. It is the highest award presented by the organization. Established in 2003 to recognize exceptional leadership within the Alliance, the William Stafford Leadership Award is named for the late Dr. William Stafford, former Professor of Counselor Education at Lehigh University. Significant contribution to the development of invitation theory and practice, and outstanding performance in key leadership roles and responsibilities are among the criteria. She received the award at the 2012 IAIE World Conference in Hong Kong. IAIE is an international group committed to helping educators develop and promote the understanding that every person adds to, or subtracts from, the process of being a beneficial presence in the lives of students.

"I credit this award to the Muskingum Education Department’s commitment to invitational learning,” said Dr. Hansen about the award. “Muskingum’s work in invitational learning is known across Ohio and the nation,” she added. That commitment was recognized in 2008 when the Muskingum University Education Department earned the International Inviting School Award and was the only higher education institution to receive an award that year. Since that time, Muskingum has worked with various school districts and projects in invitational education, including the creation of the Ohio Chapter for Invitational Education, which hosted the International 2010 Conference in Columbus where participants from seven nations attended.

Additionally, Muskingum’s work with invitational education was recognized at IAIE’s 2012 conference in Hong Kong, China, when the Education Department was named the recipient of a competitive research study award. This study will be conducted with Park Street Intermediate School in the South Western School District in Columbus, Ohio.Education Department faculty leading the study include Dr. Rae White, Director of the Educator Preparation Program and Professor of Education, Dr. Linda Rogness, Professor of Education, and Dr. Hansen. The study will analyze the growth of invitational education in the Park Street Intermediate School.

Since that time, Muskingum has worked with various schools and projects in invitational education, including the creation of the Ohio Chapter for Invitational Education, which hosted the International 2010 Conference in Columbus. Participants from seven nations attended.