Paul THOMS

I had the good fortune to work with Paul in the Exceptional Education Department at Buff State back in the 1980's, when both he and I were involved with the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC). Paul worked with prospective teachers and I worked with those already in the teaching profession. I found Paul congenial and enjoyed working with him. He was industrious and well-liked by students. I know he was an asset to Buff State and to the Exceptional Education Department. I am sorry to...

I didn't really know Paul, but at some point early in my teaching career at Buffalo State I attended a talk by him about teaching effectiveness. At one point he made an offhand comment: "Any public speaker needs to know where his audience is coming from." I realized I was clueless and ultimately his comment caused me to radically change my teaching style from formal lecture to a more hands-on approach. My teaching evaluations went from mediocre to very positive and in 1990 I was honored to...

My condolences to Paul´s family. He was my professor and friend at Buff State and we shared many adventures! He was a huge inspiration to me as I taught special ed over the years. Over recent months I attempted to email him to share my gratefulness. May he rest in peace as he brought so much goodness into the world.