UB Doctoral Student Wins Leadership Award

BUFFALO, N.Y. -- Tunde Szecsi of Cheektowaga, a doctoral candidate in early childhood education in the University at Buffalo Graduate School of Education, has been named recipient of an Elizabeth Breathwaite Student Leadership Award from the Association for Childhood Education International (ACEI).

Szecsi will receive the award at ACEI's annual international conference held recently in Phoenix.

The Breadthwaite award is presented to students who have shown evidence of leadership and participation in professional, social and civic activities; interest in teaching or child-related occupations, and participation in ACEI activities.

Szecsi, who came to the United States from Hungary to pursue her doctorate, joined ACEI two years ago and has shared her knowledge via the organization's publications and conference presentations. She hopes to teach at a college or university in the United States after graduation this May.

"Tunde is a diligent and thoughtful doctoral student, a committed and caring teacher of both preschool children and pre-service teachers, a curious and insightful researcher, and consummate professional," said Michele Sirkin, president of New York State ACEI. "Tunde has earned my admiration and my highest recommendation for this award."

Founded in 1892, the Association for Childhood Education International's primary purpose is to promote the inherent rights, education and well-being of children in homes, schools and communities. ACEI publishes Childhood Education and the Journal of Research in Childhood Education, and is a United Nations non-governmental organization (NGO) that advocates for the Convention on the Rights of the Child.

ACEI administers the program review process for institutions seeking national accreditation in elementary education.