Robert Fenster, a Social Studies teacher at Hillsborough High School, was chosen to attend the 26th annual Lincoln Forum in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, as a teacher scholarship recipient.
One of three teachers selected from across the nation by a committee of the organization, Fenster was awarded a full scholarship to attend the three-day event.
The symposium featured major historians, writers and lecturers, along with panel discussions, book signings, discussion groups, and other activities Nov. 16-18, according to information provided by Fenster.
The scholarship included registration, lodging at the Wyndham Gateway Conference Center, all meals, and transportation.
The Lincoln Forum is an assembly of enthusiasts who share a deep interest in the life and times of President Abraham Lincoln and the Civil War era. Through a roster of activities and projects including symposia, tours, student essay competitions, teacher scholarships, a newsletter, and annual awards to recognize special contributions to the field of Lincoln studies, the forum endeavors to enhance the understanding and preserve the memory of Lincoln, he said.
Following the annual forum, attendees were encouraged to attend the Annual Dedication Day at the Soldier’s National Cemetery, this year marking the 158th anniversary of The Gettysburg Address.
“The Lincoln Forum Teacher Scholarship recognizes excellence in history education and makes it possible for educators to learn more so they can teach more,” Frank J. Williams, Chairman Emeritus of the forum, said in the statement. “We reward recipients with the opportunity to interface with preeminent Civil War authorities, and in turn give lecturers the chance to educate teachers. At its core, the preservation of American history in general, and Lincoln’s in particular, is a paramount object in The Lincoln Forum mission. We consider it a privilege to support the growth and development of our teacher base, who in turn will be better prepared to inspire the next generation of students with Lincoln’s story.”
The Lincoln Forum Teacher Scholarship applications are reviewed by a committee selected by the Board of Advisors. This year’s committee members included Ken Childs, a South Carolina-based educational attorney; Clark Zimmerman, a Social Studies educator at Hamburg Area High School and veteran of the U.S. Air Force; and Ruth Squillace, coordinator of The Lincoln Forum Teacher Scholarship Initiative and high school Social Studies teacher from Long Island, New York.
Lincoln Forum Teacher Scholarships are funded through The Lincoln Forum Scholarship Fund.
For more information about the Lincoln Forum Teacher Scholarship Initiative, contact Squillace at ruthsquillace@gmail.com.
