DR. GEORGIA NEWMAN
Portrait of a Volunteer

In this feature, Georgia Newman speaks of the value of her volunteer involvement with NCTE, much of it through TYCA, and how it has impacted her professional career.

Dr. Georgia A. Newman taught composition and literature for nearly thirty years at Polk Community College in Winter Haven, Florida, before taking a position at her alma mater, Georgia College & State University (GCSU). Currently, she is writing a book about the literary friendship of Flannery O'Connor (Newman's fellow GCSU alum) and avant-garde playwright Maryat Lee. Dr. Newman has been involved with many NCTE projects, particularly those pertaining to the College Section.

What motivated you to volunteer for NCTE service?

I joined NCTE when I took my very first teaching position as a high school teacher in 1967, and have continued my membership ever since. My role in the Two-Year College Association (TYCA), however, is what motivated my most active involvement with NCTE. When TYCA became a national association, I felt that it was very important for me to be involved at a national level, both with TYCA and NCTE.

What has kept you interested in volunteering your time over the years?

Because of the hard work of many volunteers, I have seen real and positive change in our profession. NCTE's commitment to two-year colleges and increased support for the work of College Section have kept me committed to NCTE as an organization that makes a difference.

What key roles have you played and what did you find most satisfying in carrying them out?

Chairing the national Two-Year College Association of NCTE in 2000-2001, helping lift the visibility of TYCA (including campaigning for its important vote on the Executive Committee), being instrumental in promoting TYCA's Outstanding Programs in English Awards, helping to draft standards for the academic preparation of two-year college faculty, and promoting liaison work between two- and four- year colleges, have all been deeply satisfying. I have also enjoyed working as a member of the College Section, the NCTE Executive Committee, College Forum, and nominating committee as well as working with many CCCC projects. The satisfactions I get from volunteering are many, but I especially appreciate the opportunity to network with educators at all levels—k-university—and the opportunity to be involved with individuals who are passionate about language instruction at all levels. Ultimately, the notion of being able to help make and to see real change being made is the most satisfying for me. 
 

Why would you recommend volunteering to another NCTE member?

I think that getting involved, above and beyond being a member, is vital to everyone's professional development.

How or has your affiliation with NCTE improved your professional development and career?

Professional affiliation has definitely contributed to my professional development. Colleagues at all different levels and all across the country continually stimulate me, keeping me in a "growing mode" in my own scholarship and classroom teaching. NCTE volunteer opportunities, conventions, resources, and support have all had a hand in my professional development.

Do you have a favorite NCTE publication?

Yes, you will not be surprised to hear me say Teaching English in the Two-Year College (TETYC).

What is the one book, article, or professional development experience you would recommend to other educators?

For two-year college teachers in particular, I recommend Two-Year College English: Essays for a New Century by Mark Reynolds and Border Talk: Writing and Knowing in the Two-Year College by Howard Tinberg.

How has being part of an educational community like NCTE improved your abilities as a teacher and as a leader?

Being part of NCTE has provided me with so many avenues for leadership roles. There have been a lot of opportunities and experiences that have come to me directly through my involvement with NCTE. In addition, I get to network in a large arena of professional educators and am exposed to new ideas all the time.

 
 For more information about volunteerism at NCTE, visit http://www.ncte.org/about/over/vol