Bowen named VFW Teacher of the Year

Susan Bowen had not planned on being an art teacher but after eight years with the Custer schools, she cannot imagine doing anything else. For her dedication and passion, Bowen was chosen for the VFW’s Teacher of the Year Award.

The VFW chose Bowen for the award based on her long-time teaching status and her Americanism in the classroom. Bowen won the award at the local post level, but her nomination will carry on to the national level. The three winners will be announced in the beginning of March.

 “I was a bit overwhelmed when I was told I won,” Bowen said. “I feel so privileged because I am able to teach amazing young people every day. To me, that is the real honor.”

After graduating high school, Bowen painted her first painting when a family friend invited her to join in. Bowen then studied interior design at the University of Texas at Arlington before moving to Chadron and majoring in art. After graduation, Bowen decided to go into teaching. Bowen has a comprehensive undergraduate degree in three-dimensional art with three masters degrees: one in art and two in counseling.

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