A senate RESOLUTION

TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR Sharmen Ann McAlister Oswald for her dedicated service as a Gilbert Middle School librarian.

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina Senate are pleased to recognize Sharmen Ann McAlister Oswald for her passion for education and her dedication to helping students gain access to knowledge and information through the library; and

Whereas, Ms. Oswald is an alumna of the University of South Carolina where she received her Bachelor of Education in 1980, her Master of Librarianship in 1987, and her Master of Library and Information Science in 2001; and

Whereas, Ms. Oswald began her career in education teaching English with Saluda Middle School. The next year she moved to the Batesburg-Leesville School District to teach middle school English while attending school at night for her master's degree. Upon receiving her first master's degree in 1987, she moved into the librarian position at Utopia School and then at Batesburg-Leesville Middle School; and

Whereas, in 1993, Lexington District One built a new middle school in Gilbert. Desiring to build a new library from the ground up, Ms. Oswald moved there and began a career of constructing and organizing a brand-new library; and

Whereas, Ms. Oswald believes that all students are capable learners through the world of literature, which has driven her to maintain an updated and organized library. She has worked tirelessly over the years applying to grants and obtaining other funding in order to keep the library at Gilbert Middle School one of the best and most modern in the district; and

Whereas, over the years, Ms. Oswald has dedicated herself to furthering her studies in library science by participating in regular trainings and professional development opportunities. In 2003, she was among the first in Lexington One School District to receive the National Board for Professional Teaching Certificate, which she renewed in 2013 and again in 2023; and

Whereas, Ms. Oswald has opened the world of reading to thousands of young people and dedicated herself to the betterment of students and to the profession of teaching; and

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina Senate greatly appreciate the dedication and commitment that Ms. Oswald has shown in serving the people and the State of South Carolina.  Now, therefore,

Be it resolved by the Senate:

That the members of the South Carolina Senate, by this resolution, recognize and honor Sharmen Ann McAlister Oswald.

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to Sharmen Ann McAlister Oswald.

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