Dr. Knapp announced his resignation from his position as Professor of Special Education this May to pursue a professional opportunity at Wesley College, Dover, Delaware.  

Dr. Knapp came to Nyack in 2002  as the Program Director for the Inclusive Education Master's degree program. His leadership abilities, and dedication to the MSE program will be missed. Dr. Knapp had a love for education and his students, and this was apparent inside and outside of the classroom!  
 
As the Lord leads  Dr. Knapp to another chapter in his journey, we want to thank him for his labor at Nyack College. May the Lord bless Dr. Knapp abundantly!
 
"We continually remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ."
1 Thessalonians 1:3
 

We are so proud of Amanda Hankin’s tremendous accomplishment. As we delight in and celebrate Amanda, we reflect on her time in the School of Education.

Amanda was a dedicated, motivated, and responsible teacher candidate.  Not only did she maintain an ‘A’ average throughout her time at Nyack College, but her coursework, planning and preparation for lessons and units, and field experience performance, were exceptional – often used as exemplars in courses for incoming teacher candidates. During her supervised classroom experiences, Amanda maintained a quiet but strong presence in the classroom; was comfortable and effective with lovingly guiding and directing children; and was able to create developmentally appropriate, highly responsive learning environments. Clearly she has an innate love for children and children love to be around her.   

Amanda served as the early childhood education lab manager for three years. She was a tremendous support to faculty and students. Amanda also played a vital role in developing and launching the Early Childhood Educator’s Club – the Nyack College School of Education’s first professional club. She had the privilege of serving as the club’s first co-president.  In both capacities, Amanda took initiative and carried out all of her responsibilities with excellence, integrity and enthusiasm.

Amanda is a genuinely caring person with a calm, sweet spirit.  One of Amanda’s many impressive qualities is how teachable she is. She was always eager to learn, did not hesitate to seek counsel and advice, and was just as willing and able to give of herself to meet the needs of others.  During her time at Nyack she demonstrated not only a commitment to education and to furthering her own knowledge base and professional development, but the ability to influence and impact those around her in positive and lasting ways.

Amanda’s deep faith in God and desire to serve Him is reflected in her quiet strength, humility, passion for teaching and in all she does. We have been blessed to have walked with Amanda on this teacher-preparation path, and anticipate a rich, promising and exciting journey ahead for her.