Jessica Sepke, director of technology at in Raleigh, is the winner of the international “ThinkTank Award” from PC manufacturer
Nominees from more than 500 institutions spread across 23 countries were considered for the award, which is presented in recognition of innovative uses for technology.
Sepke has overseen implementation of a technology program incorporating table PCs at Saint Mary’s. The program, which began in 2005, is called ATLAS (Applying Tablets to Learning and Academic Success). Saint Mary’s utilizes Lenovo X41 portable table computers, which are provided to each faculty member and student.
“Ms. Sepke’s leadership in integrating technology into Saint Mary’s curriculum and students’ daily lives, while maintaining the great traditions of the school, have been an internationally recognized success,” said Michael Schmedlen, Lenovo’s education industry executive. “Her absolute commitment to the global community of independent education made her an easy choice for the award committee. Sepke’s ability to share best practices learned at Saint Mary’s and her ability to articulate strategies for success have helped dozens of other schools be successful.”
The tables operate as PCs. Their screens also can be used for writing, supporting use of electronic pens.
“Faculty are using the tablets in creative ways,” said Sepke in a statement. “They have students do individual and small group research online in class to explore topics of discussion. They have students create traditional presentations and also do more involved projects in which students use their technical skills and creativity to help them learn more about the subject.”
Saint Mary’s, which was founded in 1842, is one of the largest girls boarding and day schools in the U.S.
Sepke, a graduate of the North Carolina School of Science and Math, attended Wake Forest University and received a degree in biology.
