Wartburg College will recognize two outstanding high school teachers at its Commencement Sunday, May 25.
Joe Link, who teaches language arts, speech and theater arts-related courses at Jefferson High School in Cedar Rapids, and Tanya Lemburg, a life sciences teacher at Williamsburg High School, will be honored during ceremonies beginning at 1:30 p.m. in the Hoover Fieldhouse & Track in the Wartburg-Waverly Sports & Wellness Center.
Members of Wartburg’s Class of 2014 nominated high school teachers who significantly influenced their education. The teachers will receive $500 each, and a $500 scholarship will be available for a rising senior from the recipient’s high school who attends Wartburg.
Justin Cervantes, a communication studies (theater) major from Cedar Rapids, said Link brings out the “full potential” in students.
“Knowing him as a theater teacher during high school and beyond has influenced my outlook on the art of theater,” Cervantes wrote, adding, “He encouraged us to research the background of the plays and to think about how each character would connect with the audience. He emphasized the necessity to approach each production in a mature fashion that professionals would admire.”
Chantel Knepper, a biology major from Williamsburg, called Lemburg “inspiring” with “a green thumb for raising young scientists.”
“Her ability to make students excited to learn through integrative classroom activities as well as her continuous support for her students played a vital part in my education and will continue to inspire countless students in the future,” Knepper wrote.
Link, also the director of theater for the Brucemore Outdoor Children’s Theatre, received his Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Northern Iowa and his state teacher endorsement from Mount Mercy College. He volunteers with Theatre Cedar Rapids, Cedar Rapids Public Library and Cedar Rapids Meals on Wheels.
Lemburg, who was recognized as a New Science Teacher Fellow in 2007 and 2008 by the National Science Teachers Association, received Bachelor of Science degrees from Mount Mercy College and the University of Iowa, where she also earned her master’s degree. She is on the Williamsburg Board of Adjustment and has coached club volleyball.