Alumni Profile - Joseph Oaster '89
The 2012 Wong Moss Outstanding Alumni Award will be presented to Joseph Oaster ’89 on Friday, September 28, as part of the college’s 45th Anniversary event. The Wong Moss Award was created to not only recognize professional and educational achievements, but also to recognize alumni who work hard to improve their community and who are committed to education.
As a Senior Education Analyst for the University of Pennsylvania Health System, Oaster is responsible for training medical staff on how to better serve their patients on a daily basis. Prior to this role, he served as a 911 emergency dispatcher which has helped in his teachings as an adjunct instructor for Harcum College. He is committed to his family, his work and his community, which is why the Alumni Association is proud to honor him with this award.
What year did you graduate from Delaware County Community College and with what degree?
"I graduated in 1989 with an associate degree in Liberal Arts."
Did you pursue further academic goals?
"I transferred to West Chester University and graduated in May 1992 with a bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education. I received honors as a Cum Laude Graduate and was named to the Deans’ List. I continued at West Chester, working towards a master’s degree in elementary education in 1996 all while working two jobs."
Where are you now? What are you doing
"I am employed at theUniversity of Pennsylvania Health System (Penn Medicine) as a Senior Education Analyst. It is my role to help design curriculum for and then to train hospital staff to help them perform their duties on a daily basis. I am also an adjunct instructor for Harcum College in the School of General Studies concentrating on sociology and social problems."
What is next for you professionally?
"I am currently working on my doctorate while volunteering with various church groups in expanding adult literacy programs in Philadelphia. The name of the program is “Read Strong” and is dedicated to one of my former students, James Strong, who did more to influence me for my work in adult education than any student to date. Unfortunately, James passed away earlier this year, and it my hope that this program will continue to help those like James who want to try to improve their lives."
What advice do you have for your fellow alumni or current students from the College?
"I have too many to share, so I will pick my top three that I use on a daily basis in the hopes that they will help someone reading this. The first is to find and develop your learning style to empower your personal learning. Secondly, make sure to study all aspects of your areas of interest, including opposing point of views, to get a better understanding of what you are learning. Finally, and this is the most important one, pursue what you are passionate about. Your job, in some part, is who you are, and your passion should drive your efforts on a daily basis."
If you are interested in attending the 45th Anniversary event or would like to nominate someone for the 2013 Wong Moss Outstanding Alumni Award, please contact the Alumni Office for more information.
