The non-profit’s visionary founder Dr. Blanche Podhajski retires after a pioneering 50-year career in the field of education and 38 years at the helm of the Stern Center for Language and Learning. Over 200 people celebrated her extraordinary accomplishments virtually, on February 14, Valentine’s Day, one of her favorite days of the year.
Blanche came to Vermont after college to attend graduate school at UVM. The next year she accepted her first job at the Center for Disorders of Communication (CDC) at the Medical Center Hospital of Vermont. Within three years, Blanche was named Director of the CDC and a faculty member in the Department of Neurology at UVM’s College of Medicine. She then completed her doctoral work at Northwestern University and returned to Vermont in 1981.
Blanche was given the opportunity to apply to the Bernice and Milton Stern Foundation to establish a center where students, their families, and teachers could benefit from scientifically proven best practices in addressing learning differences for future success. With a $50,000 grant, the Center for Language and Cerebral Function was born in 1983.
The Center blossomed under Blanche’s leadership, fulfilling its threefold mission: direct services through evaluations and instruction; professional learning; and research. It continued to expand its programs and expertise over the years, evolving into the Stern Center for Language and Learning, a premier educational resource for Vermont and beyond. Dr. Podhajski’s work with an accomplished and dedicated staff has transformed the literacy landscape—in Vermont and outside the state.
“I am still not back to earth after my extraordinary retirement tribute. Thank you all so much to all who spoke so eloquently reminiscing about the past 38 years. You truly are the most extraordinary group of people. I shall cherish your friendship always as I follow your fabulous future,” Blanche exclaimed.
Governor Phil Scott highlighted her accomplishments, writing, “Under your leadership the Stem Center has thrived into a nationally recognized leader in literacy and learning. You have made a tremendous impact in the lives of many students and educators. I appreciate the impact your work has had, especially here in Vermont. You have made the Stem Center a great asset to our state.”
Last year in anticipation of Blanche’s announced retirement, the Beacon for Learning Campaign was launched to ensure a bright future for the Stern Center. This fund honors Blanche’s legacy and the organization’s dedication to helping learners reach their academic, social, and professional goals. To learn more about the Beacon Campaign, visit our website at sterncenter.org.
Dr. Laurie Quinn has been chosen as incoming President to succeed President Emerita Podhajski in leading the Stern Center. Dr. Quinn, a proven champion of learning for all, will carry forward in the spirit of Blanche’s strong legacy.
We wish Blanche a well-deserved retirement and look forward to a successful future for the Stern Center for Language and Learning – continuing the dedication to its vital mission.