Thomas Watrobka, Ed.D.

Assistant Professor of Education
College of Education

Office Location: Institute For Collaboration, Room 312
Telephone: 630-844-4641
Email Address: twatrobk@aurora.edu

After graduating from Western Illinois University, I began my teaching career as a high school and junior high school heath education teacher. I received my master's degree in health education with a school administration endorsement from the University of Illinois, Champaign which led to my becoming a school principal. After serving two years in central Illinois in a combined junior high/elementary position, I moved to the Geneva school system where I happily remained for 24 years. During my tenure, I was principal of three elementary schools, two of which I helped with the planning, construction, opening and assimilation into the community. I began teaching in the College of Education at Aurora University as an adjunct, then pro rata, eventually leading to my accepting the position of Assistant Professor of Educational Leadership. Highlights include being married to my wonderful wife for 37 years, raising three tremendous children and welcoming my granddaughter Lily to the family. A second granddaughter is expected in October.

Areas of Specialization
Educational Leadership

Courses Taught
Introduction to the Practicum
School Administration
Contemporary Issues in Education
Curriculum and Evaluation
Practicum in Educational Leadership

Highlights of Publications, Honors and Professional Contributions
Kane County Administrator of the Year, 2005
24 years as elementary principal with Geneva CUSD 304
Active involvement in the planning, construction and opening of two new schools

Highlights of Campus Involvement
Rising through the ranks of adjunct, pro rata, and eventually assistant professor

Other Interests
Family, married for 37 years, 3 children, 1 granddaughter, second granddaughter in October
Sports enthusiast, scuba diving, bicycling, kayaking, hiking, fly fishing
Home responsibilities