Ken Stamatis wa1ks to class after chapel. Stamatis, a reading specialist who many students respected, was a friendly face on campus. Photo by Daniel Dubois. During Homecoming weekend, Ken Stamatis relaxes with friends in the Heritage lobby. like many teachers, Stamatis was involved in the weekend's activities. Photo by Daniel Dubois. Nearly everyone has had a teacher who has greatly influenced their life in some way, and Ken Stamatis, assistant professor of education, has been that teacher to many students. "Mr. Stamatis inspires me to help children read more," senior Melissa Williamson said. "He's enthusiastic and has the children's interest at heart." Starnatis, a reading specialist who is currently working on his doctorate in education, graduated from Harding in 1980 with a psychology degree and went back to receive his masters in education in 1988. Before coming to teach at Harding in 1998, Stamatis taught several middle school reading classes and received various honors for his teaching efforts. Perhaps the most honorable award was given in 1996 - the Milken Family Foundation National Educator of the Year award. Most students agree that Stamatis is an encouraging and dedicated teacher. Senior Fawnda Elliott said, "His classes make me want to instill in children that same love and joy of reading books that I had when I was younger." Although Stamatis has been at Harding for only a short time, the example he has led has not gone unnoticed. "Mr. Stamatis is an all-around great person, teacher and Christian leader," Elliott said. "I respect what he does, what he aspires to do and what he tries to do for his students." Vf 7:\f-----D-e=di-ca~tion
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