Cabrini University named Associate Professor of Education Colleen Lelli, EdD (’95), the recipient of its 2020 Lindback Distinguished Teaching Award, the highest individual teaching honor awarded by the University. Granted by the Lindback Foundation since 1961, the award is currently offered to excellent educators at 52 institutions in the Greater Delaware Valley.
Throughout her 25-year career, Lelli has been an influential instructor to students of all ages and learning styles. She serves as Cabrini’s PreK–4 w/Special Education Program Coordinator and Director of the University’s Barbara and John Jordan Center for Children of Trauma and Domestic Violence Education. Lelli has conducted extensive research on women and children who have experienced trauma and has presented her work illuminating the hardships they face to local, national, and international audiences.
“As a teacher-educator, Dr. Lelli has modeled engaged learning in her classrooms at Cabrini over the past 18 years,” said Beverly R. Bryde, EdD, Dean of Cabrini’s School of Education. “Colleen’s joy of teaching captivates and cultivates her students. Cabrini’s pre-service teachers often comment on the valuable lessons learned from Dr. Lelli. With her years of service and commitment to teaching, Colleen has exemplified the marks of distinguished teaching as a recipient of this Lindback Award.”
In June, Lelli will also be honored by YWCA Tri-County Area during its 25th Annual Tribute to Exceptional Women luncheon. The honor recognizes influential women in the Montgomery County area who have made a positive local impact on young women. Under Lelli’s leadership, Cabrini’s Jordan Center has reached an estimated 15,000 individuals since its founding in 2017, through a range of professional development opportunities, trainings, and conference presentations. In addition to her roles at Cabrini, Lelli also serves on the boards of Delaware County Women Against Rape and Laurel House, a domestic violence agency aiding individuals and families in Montgomery County.