Riverside campus honors longtime employee and holds tea for teachers

The Riverside campus honored Angela Nelson-Swearingen (left) for her 20 years of service to Brandman University. The same day, the campus held its inaugural Teacher Appreciation Tea featuring Dr. Judy White (right), superintendent of Moreno Valley School DIstrict.

Recently, the Riverside campus had the opportunity to honor two incredible women. The first was Angela Nelson-Swearingen, who was celebrating her 20-year work anniversary with the institution. A celebratory luncheon was held in her honor, which showcased the many roles she has served for Brandman. The staff and faculty at the Riverside campus showed their appreciation for her dedicated service, and Saskia Knight, executive vice chancellor of Enrollment and Student Affairs, presented Nelson-Swearingen with a certificate.

“Angela is the consummate professional, and a true model for all employees at Brandman. Her knowledge, expertise, professionalism, and compassion make us all want to aspire to better things,” said Associate Dean Lynn Larsen.

Later in the day, the campus hosted its first Teacher Appreciation Tea. Credential and doctoral candidates, district employees, adjunct faculty, clinical supervisors, faculty, friends, and staff attended this event, held to celebrate the important work of those in education. Dr. Judy White, superintendent for the Moreno Valley Unified School District, gave an inspirational talk, fielded questions and provided each attendee with a book of encouraging quotes and messages. Each participant also left with a gift-wrapped Brandman mug with tea, biscotti, and other goodies.White honored the occasion further by writing an original poem:

Will someone call your name one day
To say you made the difference in every way
Will someone say that without you
They do not know what they would do?

Would someone say it was how you inspired
That made them in education want to be hired
Will someone say they learned to give
Because the gift you gave helped them to live?

So we celebrate you and we thank you from the heart
For each one of you clearly is doing their part
I hope you receive this appreciation from me
At the Teacher Tea at Brandman University.