Sheila M. Fitzgerald, professor emerita with the Department of Teacher Education, died February 22, 2024. Fitzgerald was with the college from 1972 until 1997.
In 1972, Fitzgerald began with the College of Education, teaching English language arts at the undergraduate, graduate and doctoral levels. In 1983, Fitzgerald became a full professor.
Throughout her career, Fitzgerald published 50 articles and numerous book chapters and was involved with several national and state committees in the field of education. She served as president of both the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) and the Michigan Council of Teachers of English (MCTE).
Fitzgerald was well-traveled, having visited over 20 different countries during her time at MSU and in retirement. On assignment with the College of Education, Fitzgerald taught courses abroad in Australia, England, Guatemala, Hong Kong, Ireland, Japan, the Philippines, Singapore and South Korea.
Prior to her work with the college, Fitzgerald was an elementary school teacher at the Minneapolis Public Schools in Minnesota. She was also an instructor at a demonstration school, a television teacher, an in-service teacher for language arts and math and a resource for probationary teachers. Shortly after, Fitzgerald received two master’s degrees and her doctoral degree from the University of Minnesota. She completed her doctoral thesis in 1972.
Fitzgerald dedicated her career to shaping future teachers. She was a strong advocate for language arts education and educational reform, which was evident through her leadership with the MCTE, NCTE and other educational organizations.