My Life, My Teaching: It starts with education at Illinois State

Alumni: Althea Alexander Cross

Graduation Year:

'47

Occupation:

Retired

Major/Minor:

B.S. in Elementary

It Starts With Education

Althea Alexander Cross received her B.S.E. at ISNU in 1947. She taught social science and English in the Venice Community Unit District #3 for 37 of her 39 years as an educator. She was director of Title VII Project MICRO (Mathematics, Interpersonal relations, Communication, and Reading Opportunities) from 1974-1981. For 38 years she was a an active member of Charitable Women's Club, an organization that provides scholarships to high school graduates.

She earned an M.S.E. from the University of Illinois in 1954 and has continued her education, taking related coursework at universities in the St. Louis area. State and regional awards: she was named one of the Master Teachers in the State of Illinois, Those Who Excel, Excellence in Teaching Social Studies, Phi Delta Service Key, and one of the Pioneer Kappan Women Chapter Contributors. Venice High School seniors invited her to be the commencement speaker in 1988 (year of retirement), 1990, and 1993. She has been an inspirational speaker at many school events. In 2000 Venice High School presented her with the Volunteer Award for her continued commitment and dedication to the school. Althea and husband George Cross, who also graduated from Illinois State University, have been married 59 years. They have one son, one grandson, one great-grandson.