Atlanta, GA - Bob Tomlinson, a teacher at Poynette High School (WI) has been named a 2002 Coca-Cola Educator of Distinction by the Coca Cola scholars Foundation. 
The Wisconsin educator is currently Northern Vice President of the International Softball Congress and Area Commissioner for the state of Wisconsin

Tomlinson is one of 252 educators across the country chosen to receive the honor of "Educator of Distinction" -- an award that recognizes outstanding teachers dedicated to providing education with an enhanced purpose. 

"The Coca-Cola Educator of Distinction Award represents the selfless, hardworking and sincere dedication of the educators who win it. These teachers are committed to shaping the future of America by encouraging its future leaders," said J. Mark Davis president of the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation. "Coca-Cola is committed to education, and we are proud to support the Educators of Distinction program. It is our way of saying thank you and congratulations to these teachers." 

Tomlinson receives a commemorative crystal Coca-Cola bottle and a plaque inscribed with a personal dedication written by Kay Saager, a 2002 Coca-Cola Scholar and senior from Poynette High School, who nominated Tomlinson. 

The plaque's inscription reads: "As a child I watched and admired you on the softball field. Now I have the privilege to have you coach and watch me. From the basketball court to the softball diamond, in the classroom, to your backyard; you have provided me with your unending expertise, dedication, support, and encouragement. You are my teacher, advisor, mentor, inspiration and my Educator of Distinction." 

Each year the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation chooses 252 outstanding high school seniors to receive college scholarships. Once named a Scholar, the students then nominate the teacher that inspired and encouraged them most as their Educator of Distinction. 

The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation is a joint effort of Coca-Cola Bottlers across the United States and the Coca-Cola Company. 

It is one of the largest corporate-sponsored, merit based scholarship programs of its kind in the country and is supported locally by the financial commitment of local Coca-Cola Bottlers including the Atlanta Coca-Cola Bottling Company. 

This year marks the third year the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation has presented the Educator of Distinction Award to outstanding educators. The Award is made possible from a grant provided by the Joseph B. Whitehead Foundation. 
The International Softball Congress joins the Coca-Cola Co. in honoring and congratulating one of it own, Bob Tomlinson. 

September 17, 2002 

Gordon Wise - - ISC Information Officer 
mailto:sgwise@woh.rr.com 
http://www.iscfastpitch.com