In 44 years of teaching at the University of Miami School of Education and Human Development, Eveleen Lorton has shaped thousands of lives. Her students have become accomplished teachers and school leaders in classrooms throughout the United States and the Caribbean, instilling a love of learning and a recognition of the power of the written word.
Now, the recent inductee to the UM Heritage Society is continuing to help future educators through a planned giving gift in memory of her parents, Rev. John and Leona Lorton, that will support scholarships in the school's Department of Teaching and Learning. "I have loved the university for all these years, and have always tried to do my best," she says. "Now I can continue make a difference in the lives of our students."
As a girl growing up in Tampa, Lorton knew she wanted to be a teacher. She earned a bachelor's degree at Mount Union College, a master's at Ball State, and a doctorate in counseling at Louisiana State University, later completing post-doctoral work at New York University. She came to the University of Miami in 1966, and began her teaching career.
Back in the 1970s, Lorton was one of the first educators to videotape student teachers in action so that they could get immediate feedback. She also gave 5-minute "microteaching" assignments to focus on particular areas of teaching, and provided continual opportunities for improving specific skills.
In 1984, Lorton teamed with English teacher and Language Arts Supervisor Zelda Glazer to launch the university's first summer Writing Institute for 25 teachers at Miami-Dade County Public Schools. As director of the summer institute, Lorton has brought in national consultants and found educational and corporate sponsors. Today, teachers throughout the region look forward to attending the attending the two-week summer sessions and the recently renamed Zelda Glazer and Eveleen Lorton Writing Institute.
Lorton herself is an author whose publications include the book, "Human Development Through the Life Span," and numerous professional articles. A Danforth Associate and member of the university's Iron Arrow Society, Lorton has served as chair of the Florida Council of Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACS-COC).
Now in retirement, Lorton says one of her favorite aphorisms is "life is a smile." Thanks to her generosity and caring spirit, there will be plenty of smiles on the faces of future UM students.
