Parkville Woman Named Educator Of The Year

A Parkville woman is the first-ever recipient of the Public Relations Society of America Maryland branch's educator of the year award.

The group named Karen Smedley, who teaches communications at Loyola University Maryland, as their 2012 educator of the year.

"Karen is not only deserving of this award, she personifies everything it’s meant to honor," Elliot King, the Loyola University chair of communication, said in a statement. "I’m thrilled that she has been recognized for her many exceptional contributions to her students, the department, and the diverse, rigorous curriculum that is the keystone of Loyola’s mission as a Jesuit institution."

According to a press release from the university, Smedley joined the staff at Loyola back in 2008. Previously, the statement says, she worked in leadership roles at the Community College of Baltimore County, University of Baltimore, and Baltimore City Community College in addition to serving on the board of Turn Around Inc., a local non-profit organization.

Smedley will receive her award at the society's Best in Maryland award ceremony tonight.

Do you know someone who should be featured on Patch because of a professional, scholastic or other achievement? If so, be sure to contact editor Nick Gestido: nick.gestido@patch.com.