Memoriam  All Memoriams

Dr. Thomas Sferes (ME '91) passed away on May 1, 2015 at the age of 72. Thomas, an educator for 46 years, was revered for his innovative education techniques and devotion to his students.

Thomas was a middle and high school foreign language teacher when he received the prestigious Milken Educator Award in 1991. After formally retiring in 2003, he taught at the University of New England in the undergraduate and graduate certification programs. During his time at the university, Thomas also taught Spanish part-time at Biddeford Middle School in Maine. 

He retired from the University of New England in 2011, but continued on at Biddeford until his death.

In addition to the Milken Educator Award, he, along with his colleague Diana Mullins, received the 2009 Exemplary Practice Award from the Maine Association of Middle Level Educators (MAMLE) for their year- long "Kindness Crew Initiative" at Biddeford Middle School.

According to his obituary, Thomas was known “as a compassionate, innovative and inspiring teacher who made a difference in his student’s lives.” His love for travel and architecture took him to several Spanish-speaking countries, New York City and Washington D.C.

For more on Thomas’ life and career, please see his obituary listing.