Southeastern Department of Teaching and Learning announces Resident Student Teacher of the Year Award
Monday, November 16, 2020 
by: Tonya Lowentritt
HAMMOND – Southeastern Louisiana University’s Department of Teaching and Learning
has named Taylor Dunigan as the recipient of the 2020 Resident Student Teacher of
the Year Award. An early childhood education graduate and a resident of St. Amant,
Dunigan received the award based on her GPA, performance assessments, disposition
and overall student relationships.
Coordinator of the Teacher Development Center at Southeastern Melanie Forstall
Lemoine said students who are nominated for the award must provide additional information
to the faculty. Nominees create an introduction video, submit their resume, and complete
several reflective writing prompts. The portfolios are evaluated by the faculty, and
this year five students were nominated.
“Throughout Taylor’s time at Southeastern, she has been named to the President’s
List multiple times. Her grades and recognition are a direct reflection of her hard
work and dedication to the education program,” Lemoine said. “Taylor was a stand-out
candidate for this award in part because of her daily commitment to becoming the best
teacher she can be. She is highly reflective.”
Dunigan attributes the education program to helping her become a more reflective
practitioner. Something she says has had a positive impact on both her professional
and personal life.
“Being a reflective practitioner has benefited my students,” she said. “They
are able to continuously receive more enhanced lessons each day.”
Lemoine said Dunigan completed her yearlong residency in Ascension Parish and
hopes to have a long and prosperous career there.
