Euolgy Peggy F.J. Bradford, J.D. Ed.D

December 8, 2006

Dr. Mario Reda
819 Monroe
River Forest, IL 60305

Dear Mario:

This letter is written to extend my appreciation for the thirty-seven years of service you have provided to the College of DuPage. Dr. Reda you have contributed to the college community as a faculty member in various and creative ways. Also as I read your file, your journey began at the College of DuPage in 1969 as a full time faculty member. During your tenure with COD you undertook numerous projects such as the New York Times project whereby students were encouraged to read the newspaper daily, taught large lecture classes, and researched the use of Pod Casting in the classroom. Your love for your students, thirst for knowledge, and penchant for pushing the envelope to engage in meaningful dialogue are your trademarks.

Mario in your textbook, you noted that “Teaching is central to public sociology: students are our first public for they carry sociology into all walks of life. Academic sociology also needs the world … To recognize, learn from, and engage with public sociologies in different countries we should build bridges that span the world – level bridges with two-way traffic.” It is this type of thinking and teaching that made you stand apart from the faculty.

In the curriculum arena, you developed a course called Social Communication engaging many professional students and taking the time to interview each student to ensure the optimal group dynamics were present. Students have commented on your unique ability to share your lectures through “story telling”.

Your dedication and service goes beyond the classroom to include a commitment to serving COD through active participation on a number of committees including: the computer committee, marketing committee, divisional curriculum committee and athletics. In addition, I read you chartered the American Federation of Teachers chapter and chaired the Sociology department at COD.

Mario, I know you have frequently advised students outside the classroom to ensure they receive accurate and timely information. Your concerns are student-centered. In the past you have referred students to the writing and reading center, counseling center for personal issues and student activities. These acts are greatly appreciated by the college community.
Dr. Mario Reda
December 8, 2006
Page 2



As a person who has given service to others for four decades, inspired others to debate the issues of the day, and to embrace technology in the learning process the Social Science division takes this opportunity to recognize your dedication, creativity, and commitment to education and the students of District 509. Even though, we have only worked together for a year and a half, I know your absence from the college is felt by your students and colleagues.

As one Saluki to another, please accept this letter as a symbol of my appreciation to you. I look forward to your recovery and return to COD. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this holiday season.

Sincerely,




Peggy F.J. Bradford, J.D. Ed.D
Associate Dean, Social Sciences