Some 100 teacher candidates–many first-generation college graduates–who have completed the FPU credential program were by honored by family, faculty and friends at the event, which began at 7:30 p.m. May 11, 2010, in the Special Events Center. Mentors Awards went to retiring faculty Vicky Bigler, Visalia Center teacher education program director; Karen Neufeld, liberal studies director; and Michael McMahon, foundations instructor. Larry Martens, a member of the Board of Trustees, gave the keynote address. Other participants include President D. Merrill Ewert; Gary Gramenz, dean of the School of Education; and Linda Hoff, director of the teacher education program.