Western New Mexico University will induct three career educators into the School of Education Hall of Fame during the 2017 spring commencement ceremony activities.
With nearly a century of combined educator experience in southwest New Mexico, Peggy Sue Larisch, Roberto A. Martinez, and Richard H. Moore will be recognized for their distinguished contributions to the classroom as alumni from WNMU.
Peggy Sue Larisch earned two degrees from WNMU in 1983 and 1985. She is being recognized for 29 years of service as a computer science and math teacher at Silver High School and WNMU. Larisch implemented her passion for life-long learning by taking her students on annual trips to the Los Alamos National Laboratory Super Computing Challenge.
Larisch was a sponsor for several classes, and supported many student activities including bake sales, car washes, and dances. She was a sponsor for cheerleading and the dance team.
Roberto A. Martinez retired after more than 35 years as a teacher of social studies, Spanish, and English as a Second Language for Snell Middle School in the Cobre School District. Martinez is acknowledged as a successful coach for track, volleyball, and basketball teams. He also served as a mentor outside the classroom for programs including Hands Across the Border, the Spanish Spelling Bee, and history and geography fairs.
Martinez is recognized for his compassion as a thoughtful mentor for teacher candidates. He earned degrees from WNMU in 1979 and 1984.
Richard H. Moore is being inducted into the hall of fame for his 33-year career as a high school teacher of social studies, science, sociology, and physical education in the Reserve, Quemado, and Lordsburg, New Mexico communities.
Moore is described as an influential leader for students in rural communities where he was a well-regarded teacher and athletic coach. He has been described as an encyclopedia of information for generations of students. Moore earned a bachelor degree from WNMU in 1965.
Inductees will be honored at an invitation-only ceremony on Friday, May 12 on the university campus.