EDUCATOR NAMED NEW REGENT

The Southeast Missouri chapter of the PHi Delta Kappa educators organization named Long, who has taught at every level from elementary to junior high, the region's educator of the year for the 1993-94 school year.

Gov. Mel Carnahan on Monday named Poplar Bluff educator Sarah Long, 42, as the newest member of the Southeast Missouri State University Board of Regents.

Long's appointment is contingent upon confirmation by the Missouri Senate. That confirmation typically is a formality.

Long will serve a six-year term, ending Jan. 1, 2001. She will replace Ann Dombrowski of Cape Girardeau, whose term expired Jan. 1.

The governor still hasn't appointed anyone to replace Cape Girardeau businessman Don Harrison, whose term also expired Jan. 1. Harrison is president of the board.

Board members routinely serve beyond the expiration of their terms as new appointments often aren't made until months later.

Carnahan said Long has an outstanding background in education. "She will bring a fresh perspective and years of experience to the Board of Regents," he said.

Southeast President Kala Stroup said Long is well qualified to serve as a regent.

Long is director of early childhood education in the Poplar Bluff school district and coordinates the district's remedial reading and math program.

Long has three education degrees from Southeast Missouri State University. She received her latest degree, specialist in education, last year.

"I was quite honored and surprised," Long said Monday.

She said the governor informed her of his decision in a telephone call Friday.

Long said the regents will be strengthened by having another member from the outlying region.

She praised the partnership between Southeast and Three Rivers Community College in Poplar Bluff.

Long has taught at every level, from elementary to junior high. "I certainly recognize good teaching," she said.

The Southeast Missouri chapter of the Phi Delta Kappa educators organization named her the region's educator of the year for the 1993-94 school year.

Long is married to a Poplar Bluff optometrist, Dr. Jerry Long. They have two daughters.