Type Of Business:
Educational Institution
Expertise:
Ms. Tolson's expertise is in assistance, support and instruction of professional staff, children and youth.
Major Product/SVS:
Diagnostic and Instructional Support Services
Hobbies/Sports:
Sailboating
Education Degrees:
Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, Kent State University (1971)
Affiliations Awards:
Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development; National Staff Development Council; Brevard County Chapter, Together in Partnership; Healthy Start Coalition Board
Industry:
Instructional Support Services
Date of Distinction:
1/20/2009
Work History:
Teacher, Speech Pathologist and Audiologist, School Systems; Language Coordinator and Diagnostics, Goodwill Rehabilitation Center; Educational Specialist, Akron Child Guidance Center; Trainer for Various Programs
What do you feel separates you from the rest of the professionals in your industry?:
I believe that the network of people I work with in the state of Florida have given me more support than anything else. I never feel separate, but part of a larger team that values achievements. I am the 'elder' director in our network, so I have had many experiences, so I guess persistence and longevity in my career has shaped my choices.
What has been the most outstanding thing you have done thus far in your career?:
Thus far so many wonderful things have happened in my career, but my greatest moments have been when my center has been given awards as a well functioning team. No one really does anything alone and I have had many wonderful team members throughout my entire career.
Expanded Biography:
I have been eternally fortunate to have worked in many different agencies with a span of problems that has shaped my career. I have been fascinated with how human beings develop and learn. I am continually amazed at the capacity people have to change and learn from experiences. I believe that every person is unique and every brain an original. I have a passion for reading and attending multiple trainings to increase my knowledge base. Learning has been life long for me. I have had many inspiring educators work with me over the years who have given me encouragement. My best advice to anyone is to continue to be amazed and passionate for your work. I also credit most things to my parents who were the best role models. 'Man's mind, once stretched by a new idea, never regains its original dimensions,' Oliver Wendell Holmes.
Throughout the duration of your career, what was the one highlight that stood out the most?:
The most gratifying aspect of her career is teaching students.
Number Of Years In Profession:
41
Number Of Years In Current Position:
24
What Does He/She Attribute Success To:
She attributes her success to her hard work and self-motivation.
Why did you become involved in your profession or industry?:
She became involved in her profession because of her educational background in speech pathology.
Position Responsibilities and Duties:
Overseeing Four Divisions including Human Resource Development, Instructional Technology, Parent Services and Child Find Projects
Education Certifications:
Certificate, Training in Choice and Reality Therapy, 4MAT; Certificate, Understanding Poverty, The William Glasser Institute; Certificate of Clinical Competence, American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
Awards/Honors:
Children's Hope Award