As a lecturer in the Global Gateway Program, a pathway program for international students entering the University of Vermont, Thomas Dunn has distinguished himself as a compassionate and inclusive instructor for all of our international students. His patient, caring approach is perfectly suited for teaching a population of students who may be feeling anxiety or discomfort about living in a new country and encountering new experiences in their second language.

In addition to his regular course load, Thomas has been instrumental in the creation and continuation of the Workplace English program, an English language program for UVM's diverse custodial staff. Since taking over delivery of ESOL instruction nearly three years ago, Thomas and his colleagues in the Global Gateway program have increased Workplace English attendance rates and nearly doubled the total number of staff who voluntarily enroll in these classes.

These frontline staff have formed a sort of beginning English speakers cohort that now spans several years, continents, literacy levels, age groups, ethnicities, religions, and educational backgrounds. The list of diversity of background and ability within Thomas's Workplace English classroom cannot be overstated. His success in motivating and teaching this diverse group of students has earned him special titles that harken from their mother tongues and cultures. Thomas is their teacher, a mentor, a lifelong friend. He is family.

Thomas does not view his job as something he clocks in and out of each day. Instead, he allows himself to be available to his students at all times. It is not unusual to see former students drop by office for advice, help dealing with a complex problem using English, or simply to chat. He is a constant presence at events for international students, and he is active in the community as a source of support for all international students.