May 16, 2006

Ron Layne, developmental math instructor, has been chosen as A-B Tech’s Faculty Member of the Year, while Ron Ferrigno, biology instructor, has been selected as Adjunct Faculty Member of the Year. A-B Tech President K. Ray Bailey recognized them both during spring commencement May 12.

Layne has taught at A-B Tech for eight years, four as a full-time instructor. He earned his GED through A-B Tech and went on to complete an associate in science degree. He transferred to UNC-Asheville, where he discovered a love of math. Although he was offered a lucrative career in the field after graduation, he decided to return to A-B Tech. He later earned a master’s in liberal arts from UNC-Asheville and is working on an applied math degree from Western Carolina University.

“I believe diversity is important in our classrooms and should be celebrated,” he said. “I believe in an unconditional classroom where students can lead the crazy busy lives they have and still learn.”