In loving memory

Professor of education dies

Dr. Connie Lewis McDonald professor of education at Liberty University, died Thursday, Oct. 22 in her home in Lynchburg at the age of 59.

McDonald was born March 18, 1956 in New Orleans, Louisiana to the late Hubert and Rosalie Lewis.

When she accepted a job at Liberty, she fulfilled her dream of becoming a professor. According to her colleagues in the school of education, McDonald worked in various disciplines within the field of education. She had experience working with students from kindergarten through the university level. Her Ph.D. was in secondary education with an emphasis in teaching English language learners (ELLs). She had a specialist degree and a Masters in Education with concentrations in elementary education and educational administration. She worked as a teacher in the U.S. and Japan. She most recently taught graduate and undergraduate courses in the school of education. Throughout her career, McDonald was a licensed reading specialist, ELL specialist, elementary teacher, school superintendent, principal and supervisor.

She is survived by her husband of 33 years, Steve and her daughter, Maria. The funeral was held at 6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 26 at Whitten Timberlake Chapel in Lynchburg. In lieu of flowers, the family asked for contributions to be sent to the Liberty Godparent Home.

Haywood is the editor-in-chief.