FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Maryland Distance Learning Association and MarylandOnline Announces Dr. Dionne Thorne as the 2026 Barbara Zirkin Award Recipient
Bel Air, MD – April 20, 2026 – The Maryland Distance Learning Association (MDLA) and MarylandOnline (MOL) is pleased to announce Dr. Dionne Thorne of Morgan State University as the recipient of the prestigious 2026 Barbara Zirkin Award. This annual award recognizes higher education professionals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, dedicated service, and unwavering commitment to both MDLA and MOL.
The Barbara Zirkin Award honors the memory of Dr. Barbara G. Zirkin, a distinguished academic and a strong advocate for education in Maryland. Dr. Zirkin, who passed away in 2019 at the age of 75, was a respected figure in the academic community. Her life was marked by a deep commitment to learning and the advancement of educational opportunities for all. This award serves as a tribute to her impactful contributions and legacy.
Dr. Dionne Thorne has provided exceptional service to both MDLA and MOL, leveraging over 15 years of instructional design expertise to consistently advance the goals of each organization. Her steadfast leadership and meaningful contributions to program development have been instrumental in fostering high standards, quality assurance, and ongoing growth within Maryland’s digital learning environments.
The Barbara Zirkin Award was formally presented to Dr. Dionne Thorne at the 2026 MDLA Spring Conference in Hanover, Maryland on April 17, 2026.
MDLA and MOL congratulate Dr. Dionne Thorne on this well-deserved recognition and thank her for her ongoing commitment to excellence in higher education and his support of both organizations.
About the Maryland Distance Learning Association (MDLA):
The Maryland Distance Learning Association (marylanddla.org) is a professional organization dedicated to promoting quality distance learning practices and fostering collaboration among educators, institutions, and organizations involved in online and blended learning in Maryland.
About MarylandOnline (MOL):
MarylandOnline (MOL) is a future-focused consortium of Maryland higher education institutions that serve its members through expertise, networking, and advocacy, drawing on the strengths of its member institutions to advance excellence in online education and fuel student success.
About Barbara Zirkin:
Dr. Barbara G. Zirkin was a respected academic who dedicated her life to education. Her commitment to learning and her service to the community left a lasting impact. The Barbara Zirkin Award was established to honor her memory and recognize individuals who embody her spirit of leadership, service, and dedication to higher education in Maryland.
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