I am sorry to inform you of the recent death of Joseph Balaban, of Waynesburg, a Vocational-Technical Education major in the College of Education and Educational Technology.

Joseph was a teacher at Western Area Career and Technology Center in Canonsburg. He was named Pennsylvania Vocational Teacher of the Year in 2010.

A memorial service for Joseph was held in January.

Sad news like this can evoke strong feelings. The best way to cope is to talk to your closest friends, family members, or trusted teachers. There are people among us who have experienced the same or similar events, and they are often more than willing to help others going through difficult circumstances. Students who would like to speak with a counselor should call 724-357-2621 or visit the Counseling Center in the Center for Health and Well-Being, Suites on Maple East.

Michael A. Driscoll
President, IUP