Experiencing More Than A School of Education

Aquinas College School of Education hosted the Tennessee Association of Independent Liberal Arts Colleges of Teacher Education (TAILACTE) fall business meeting and dinner at St. Cecilia Motherhouse on September 12, 2022. TAILACTE is a non-profit organization dedicated to the work of educator preparation programs in private liberal arts institutions within the state of Tennessee. An affiliate of the Tennessee Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (TACTE), TAILACTE supports, recognizes, and advocates for private higher education institutions that offer a liberal arts education. Eleven different colleges and universities throughout Tennessee were represented at the September event.

During the business meeting, Tandy Taylor, Director, Undergraduate Teacher Education at Trevecca Nazarene University and past president of TAILACTE presented Sister Matthew Marie, O.P. with a plaque recognizing Sister for her “Distinguished Service and Dedication to TAILACTE”.

Sister Mary Rachel, O.P. former Dean of the School of Education at Aquinas, and Prioress at the St. Cecilia Motherhouse, explained the history of St. Cecilia Congregation and Aquinas College. This was followed by questions and answers. Many of the guests joined the Sisters for Compline, night prayers, following the talk. One of those who participated commented, “In addition to the wonderful history and warm hospitality, the passion you evidenced for your calling is inspirational.”

The School of Education at Aquinas College has been a member of TAILACTE since 1994. This is the first time that the organization has convened at the Motherhouse. A member of TAILACTE since 1998, Sister Matthew Marie will be leaving Tennessee for a position at Providence College in Rhode Island early next year.