Elmira College

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Alumni Spotlight: Frances Beach Truex '60

Elmira, NY (07/31/2019) — Frances Truex always knew she wanted to be an elementary school teacher. Her inspiration came from her desire to learn and help others. Even as a child, Frances spent her time teaching the neighborhood children while playing school. She chose to attend Elmira College because it was close to home and had the reputation of being a good school for those going into the education field.

While at EC, Frances spent most of her time in the classroom. She picked up a second major, sociology, even though, at the time, she would not receive any credits from the classes due to the program structure. Frances also was a part of the College's touring choir, which performed at other colleges and high schools, and she was in the Christian Organization.

Frances graduated from EC on June 5, 1960, and was married on June 25 that same year. She left college with two job offers close to home and has always played a part in the classroom. She was exceptional at teaching phonics and shared her love of reading with many first grade classrooms. Since retiring, Frances has kept busy as president of the Mobile Meals in Myrtle Beach, volunteering as a reading buddy to elementary school students, singing in the church choir, and traveling with mission trips.

Throughout her career, and retirement, Frances has received many awards and recognitions, such as Who's Who in American Education from National Reference Institute 1989-1990, Teacher of the Year 1992, Who's Who in American Education 1987-1988, International Directory of Leadership, and a Marquis Who's Who Lifetime Achievement Award 2018.

Frances's advice to prospective students is, "Be social, but study hard."

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