The Vermont Association of Educational Office Professionals (VAEOP) has announced that Rich Tulikangas, Executive Director of Linking Learning to Life, Inc. is 2011 Administrator of the Year. The award was presented to him at the VAEOP 73rd Annual Fall Conference by VAEOP President, Glory Martin on Saturday, October 29th at the Stoweflake Resort & Conference Center in Stowe, VT.
Nominated by Teresa Poquette, Office Manager at Linking Learning to Life, here is what she stated: “It is truly an honor to nominate Rich Tulikangas, Executive Director of Linking Learning to Life, Inc. for the 2011 Administrator of the Year Award.
Rich is truly a leader in education and employment, always striving to serve the students of Vermont. He works tirelessly and effortlessly in creating programs for the needs of the youth of today to succeed in tomorrow’s world. Rich provides students the chance to continue beyond high school into the workforce. He is a firm advocate for all our youth.
Rich has served as Executive Director of Linking Learning to Life (LLL) since it’s inception in 1997 through Burlington School District, the University of Vermont, and the Lake Champlain Regional Chamber of Commerce. LLL is a school-to-career organization that became a formal non-profit in 2002.
Rich has served the youth of the State of Vermont for over 30 years. He began his career as program coordinator and leader recruiting, hiring and supervising youth including those at risk. He developed curriculum and tools needed for these youth to be successful. At the Vermont Department of Education, he was instrumental in developing statewide programs to meet both the educational and employment needs of Vermont youth for school to work organizations and partners.
Rich is well known in the educational community. He serves on numerous boards and leadership groups throughout Vermont continuing to serve youth. He is always looking for program opportunities from expanding our present programs to the implementation of new ones.
Rich contributes his wealth of expertise and knowledge to others across Vermont in leading the way for individuals to achieve their educational goals and opportunities for employment. This award is a tribute to his contribution to the Vermont youth and staff.”
Linking Learning to Life that develops and manages a wide range of programs and services that help K-12 age youth prepare for life after high school, especially related to careers and continuing education. The organization plays a critical role in connecting schools with businesses, colleges, and other community organizations to create exciting student learning opportunities. These opportunities include community service, leadership development, career exploration, internships, paid employment and college access.
The Vermont Association of Educational Office Professionals founded in 1938, is the only professional association for educational office personnel in Vermont. Educational office professionals are an important link in the total educational program of each student and we are proud to be members of the educational team. The purpose of VAEOP to encourage educational office professionals to attain high standards of performance through professional growth and to advance recognition of the vital role they play as members of the educational team.
