Academic
LOCAL TEACHER ATTENDS FELLOWSHIP: In July, the Bill of Rights Institute partnered with the Foundation for Economic Education to host the Founders Fellowship: Civil Liberty, Commerce, and the Constitution. Robyn Verbois from Christian Life Academy in Baton Rouge was among the social studies teachers selected to participate in this professional development program aimed at deepening their understanding and appreciation of the American Founding.
Verbois joined 25 other teachers July 16-20 in Washington, D.C. The program included lectures with constitutional scholars, discussions with fellow teachers and scholar-led visits to historic sites including Mount Vernon, the National Archives and a monument tour.
To prepare for the program, participants completed readings exploring the question “How did the Founders define liberty?” Verbois received a certificate for 25 contact hours of professional development.
Verbois was selected based upon her leadership displayed in the classroom and dedication to educating her students about the connections between politics and economics in America.
The Founders Fellowship Program is made possible through partnership with the Foundation for Economic Education.
EMORY UNIVERSITY DOCTORATE: Katie M. Vance, daughter of Estrid and Geary Vance, of Baton Rouge, was awarded a PhD in molecular systems pharmacology by the Graduate Division of Biological and Biomedical Sciences of Emory University in Atlanta.
Military
DONALDSON COMPLETES BASIC: Navy Seaman Jaz J. Donaldson, son of Brigette W. Donaldson, of Gonzales, and Joseph A. Donaldson, of New Orleans, was recently promoted to his current rank upon graduation from recruit training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Ill. He is a 2004 graduate of Sarah T. Reed High School of New Orleans.
DUPONT COMPLETES BASIC: Navy Seaman Recruit Michael P. Dupont, a 2007 graduate of Dutchtown High School in Geismar, recently completed U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Ill.
LITTLE COMPLETES BASIC: Navy Seaman Apprentice Justin D. Little, a 2007 graduate of St. Amant High School in Gonzales, was recently promoted to his current rank upon graduation from recruit training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Ill.
“Neighbors Notes” is published every Tuesday in the People section. Send items — including military graduations, reunions and promotions; university and college academic achievements; and neighborhood association events — to “Neighbors Notes,” The Advocate, P.O. Box 588, Baton Rouge, LA 70821, or fax information to (225) 388-0351 or email to people@theadvocate.com. Deadline is Tuesday at noon of each week for the following Tuesday.