Annual teacher workshop touches on the “heart” and “soul” of teaching

by Wayne Pelzel, director

Office of Schools

New Ulm, MN - Tom Thibodeau, an assistant professor of religious studies at Viterbo University in LaCrosse, Wisconsin, addressed an audience of 300 diocesan educators at the annual New Ulm Diocesan Teacher Workshop.

The workshop was held on Monday, October 25, in the St. Anthony Building of New Ulm Area Catholic Schools. Bishop John C. Nienstedt celebrated Mass with the group in the late morning in the Cathedral. Wayne Pelzel, Director of Schools, also addressed the teachers regarding the future of Catholic education.

Thibodeau’s moving presentation, “Reclaiming the Heart and Soul of Teaching” provoked insight and inspiration to the Catholic school teachers and administrators as well as Directors of Religious Education who attended the meeting. His motivational talk served to remind teachers of the wonderful opportunities they have to impact the students they teach. His use of anecdotes and personal experiences elicited humorous as well as emotional responses from the audience.

A graduate of St. John’s University in Collegeville, Thibodeau also holds a master’s degree from St. Mary’s University in Winona.