Alice F. Suroski

TO: University of Northern Iowa Faculty and Staff FROM: Gordon J. Rhum, Acting Dean DATE: 16 April 1981 Dr. Alice F. Suroski, Associate Professor of Education in the Department of Special Education, passed away on Tuesday, 14 April 1981, at her home in Cedar Falls. She and her husband, Anthony, resided at 1024 West Eighteenth Street. Three brothers survive. Her son, Carl, preceded her in death in 1971. Dr. Suroski was born 19 February 1922, at Malcolm, Nebraska. The bachelor's degree was earned at Nebraska Wesleyan University. Advanced degrees, M. A. E. and Ed. D., were obtained at the University of Nebraska. In 1969 Dr. Suroski joined the faculty of the University of Northern Iowa. Prior professional experience constituted a strong background for instructional and advisory responsibilities which she carried here. Teaching in rural schools of Nebraska and Alaska covered a period of eleven years. She taught in second grade, third grade, and special education for seventeen years in Alaska and Oregon. During the years of residency for doctoral study at the University of Nebraska, Dr. Suroski served as an instructor in educational psychology. The UNI Special Education Curriculum Materials Center was developed by Dr. Suroski to serve special education students and special educators in the field. She placed great emphasis on practical teacher-made materials for units taught in the classroom and made available a library of ideas and examples. Dr. Suroski was active nationally, statewide, and locally in various organizations. She served on the Curriculum Committee of the College of Education, was a member of the Council for Exceptional Children, developed in 1975 a Scale of Assessment for Trainable Adults, and was involved in efforts for the mainstreaming of handicapped pupils. She contributed articles to various professional journals. She was also very active in community affairs and service projects and in the Trinity United Methodist Church, Cedar Falls. Dr. Suroski was known for her enthusiastic, energetic devotion to students and the field of special education. She was sought as an instructor and advisor, and was respected for her caring attitude. The memorial service will be held on Friday, 17 April 1981, at 3:00 p.m. in Lincoln, Nebraska. Roper and Sons Mortuary is in charge of arrangements. A scholarship is being established in Dr. Suroski's name. Individuals may contact the UNI Foundation, 137A Latham Hall, University of Northern Iowa, Cedar Falls, Iowa 50614. Memorials may be made payable to the UNI Foundation in the name of Alice F. Suroski.