CCBC Faculty Member Selected as Microsoft Innovative Educator Expert

Monaca, PA – Recognized as a global leader in using technology to transform education, Mary Jo Slater, Professor of Office Technology at Community College of Beaver County,  joined more than 5,600 educators worldwide as part of the Microsoft Innovative Educator (MIE) Expert program. Each year, Microsoft selects innovative educator experts to share ideas, try new approaches, and learn from each other through a global community dedicated to improving student outcomes through technology.

“I am excited to have this opportunity to collaborate with and learn from educators all across the globe as well as bring CCBC the designation of leader in increasing student success through technology,” Slater said. “I am already learning from others and sharing with educators across the world how I successfully use Microsoft in my own classes.”

Slater is already seeing her students’ success translate from the classroom into their work environments.

“After learning how to use Microsoft’s OneDrive to collaborate in real-time with anyone across the country and even world, one of my students showed her employer how to use the software and they are now using it to save time and money,” Slater said. “On top of that, the student also received a raise. She was so thankful for what she had learned at CCBC.”

As an MIE Expert, educators build their capacity for using technology in both the classroom and curriculum to improve student learning, advise Microsoft and educational institutions on how to integrate technology in pedagogically sound ways, and be an advocate at conferences, events and trainings for how Microsoft technology can improve learning.

“Microsoft Innovative Educator Experts are inspiring examples of educators applying new ways of teaching and learning in their classrooms that motivate students and empower them to achieve more,” Anthony Salcito, vice president, Worldwide Education, Microsoft, said. “We celebrate and support the work they do every day.”

Many students enrolled in Slater’s Office Technology programs are either updating their skills or have been laid off and need to learn new skills. Through her participation in the MIE Expert Program, Slater is not only learning from and collaborating with educators across the world but also helping students succeed during their time at CCBC and beyond.

Educators interested in the MIE Expert program can find out more here. Interested individuals can also join the Microsoft Educator Community for professional development opportunities and to make connections globally.

To learn more about CCBC’s Office Technology programs, visit ccbc.edu/business.

About CCBC

Founded in 1966 and preparing to celebrate its 50th anniversary, CCBC’s annual enrollment exceeds 3,600 credit students and an additional 3,200 non-credit students. CCBC is an Achieving the Dream Leader College and is embarking on a vision to grow its offerings and community engagement through partnerships and new program development.  CCBC offers 71 degree, certificate and diploma programs and hundreds of Continuing Education and Workforce Development programs as well as seamless transfer to a growing number of baccalaureate and graduate institutions. The Aspen Institute recently named CCBC one of America’s 150 Best Community Colleges.