Mrs. Dear graduated in 1982 with an associate degree in Data Processing Technology. In 1986 she went on to earn a bachelor of science degree in Occupational Vocational Teacher Education/Data Processing from Delaware State University. In 1996, she earned a master of education in School Leadership and Instruction from Wilmington College. Currently, Mrs. Dear is the database manager technician with the Department of Education in Dover. Since 1991, Mrs. Dear has been an adjunct instructor at the Terry Campus in the Computer Information Systems Department. In addition, she was one of the original designers and an instructor of Educational Technology Certificate courses for Delaware Tech.
Mrs. Dear has been an active participant on numerous educational committees and boards throughout the state. During her career, Mrs. Dear has received the Kent County Vocational- Technical School District Teacher of the Year Award, the Delaware Office Education Association Advisor of the Year Award, and the American Vocational Association Leadership Award. She is a professional member of the International Society for Technology in Education and a former Delaware Vocational Association officer. Mrs. Dear has participated in community activities as a member of Beta Sigma Phi Sorority, Brownie Troop Leader, Assistant Girl Scout Leader, and Sunday School teacher.
Mrs. Dear stated that one of the most enjoyable parts of her career was teaching the students at Kent North Vo-Tech. Her students still keep in touch. During this period of time, Mrs. Dear participated in the development of the Tech Prep Program in Delaware. She resides in Dover with her husband, Ron. They have one daughter, Leslie.
Mrs. Sammander graduated in 1985 with an associate degree in Computer Engineering Technology. In addition, she holds a Bachelor of Applied Science Degree in Mathematics, which she received in 1976 from the University of Kabul in Afghanistan. Currently, Mrs. Sammander is the Caucus Technical Advisor and Liaison to the Controller General Office and Office of Information Services. Since 1988, she has been an adjunct instructor at the Terry Campus in the Mathematics Department.
After having been granted asylum in 1981, Mrs. Sammander and her family settled in the United States. Because of the language barrier and the lack of education in this country, she was not successful in obtaining employment. It was then she decided to attend the Terry Campus to further her education. Mrs. Sammander stated in her letter, "The Terry Campus equipped me with the educational foundation and building blocks that could be added onto later." Mrs. Sammander has "always encouraged friends and family to choose the Terry Campus for their college education." As a matter of fact, her son, Arash, is a graduate, and his wife, Shumeissa, is currently a student. Mrs. Sammander has become involved in local politics, serving as the Republican Chairperson for the 28th district. She "values the freedom to become involved in activities such as this." Mrs. Sammander also assists Afghan immigrants in the community by locating jobs, homes, and helping them "maintain a sense of community in their new lives."
As the Speaker of the House, Terry R. Spence, wrote in his recommendation letter, " Ayesha has proven the American Dream is alive and well, and her dedication and determination is an inspiration to others." Mrs. Sammander resides in Smyrna with her husband, Osman; son, Arash; daughter-in-law, Shumeissa; and daughter, Leila.
Mr. Surguy graduated in 1992 with an associate degree in Civil Engineering Technology. For 20 years, he was a surveyor with the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control. Mr. Surguy also taught surveying classes at the Terry Campus of Delaware Tech.
While a student at the Terry Campus, Mr. Surguy was very active in Phi Theta Kappa honor society, participating in numerous fundraising and service projects. He also was inducted into Tau Epsilon Phi, the International Engineering Honor Fraternity. Shortly before graduation from the Terry Campus, he attained professional registration as a land surveyor in 1991. He credited his coursework at Delaware Tech with helping him pass the exam. Mr. Surguy was Kent County director and vice president of the Delaware Association of Surveyors. In honor of his contributions to the profession and dedication to continuing education, The Delaware Association of Surveyors unanimously voted to rename their Delaware Tech scholarship "The Charles M. Surguy Scholarship."
Mr. Surguy was a constant advocate of the advantages provided by the Terry Campus, always encouraging his students, spending extra time with them, and making himself available for tutoring. As a direct result of his efforts, there are several successful surveyors in the state. He wouldn't let them quit! He gave freely of his time and knowledge, expecting nothing in return." His wife of 30 years, Rebecca; a son, Edward; and a daughter, Kathleen, survive Mr. Surguy.