Everyone knew where to find Dr. Ange. The library has long been a hub for all the students to congregate at Campbell High School. Library Media Specialist Andrea Ange was always there with a quick smile and a kind word for students and faculty alike. Somehow she knew just what to say when someone was having a bad day or needed some encouragement.
A passionate educator who centered everything she did around the needs of her students, Dr. Ange died this weekend from brain cancer.
She was that rare teacher who challenged her pupils academically and yet bonded with them almost like a doting family member. For the last decade, Dr. Ange made her presence felt, often behind the scenes, in countless ways whether she was applying for grants for the district, directing library programming or simply lending her wisdom to senior projects.
Gnaegy encouraged her friend and colleague not to wait to complete her doctorate. That accomplishment came in 2016 when the library media specialist earned her PhD in education leadership from Southern New Hampshire University. Both teachers helped motivate one another. Ange had taken a more unconventional route to becoming an educator. In fact, it wasn’t until later in life that her passion for teaching and technology came into full bloom.
Her journey may have taken twists in turns, but she eventually acquired a staggering number of accolades, honors, and degrees. In 2012, she was chosen New Hampshire School Librarian of the Year. The year prior she was awarded Outstanding Library Specialist by the NH School Library Media Association. She served as president of the NE School Library Association from 2007 to 2013. She dedicated herself to improving as an educator every day. It was never about the accolades as Dr. Ange was simply looking for new ways to open more doors for her students.
That is exactly how senior Jason Hamblett viewed his mentor. He worked with Dr. Ange for four years as she was the adviser of the Campbell Key Club. “She had a passion for learning. She loved all of her students. She was a perfect example of ‘you can do anything.’” Dr. Ange and Jason started the ‘Chrome squad’ to help any teachers and students who were struggling with technology.
But Dr. Andrea Ange’s reach went well beyond her technology expertise. It was her kind soul that touched so many around her. “She believed in every single kid who walked through the door. She saw all the opportunities and potential within each and every one,” said Julie Green.
And so her legacy will live on at Campbell High School. Her students are already planning on ways to honor their cherished teacher. Although in the planning stages, the students wanted to convert the former computer lab into a Makerspace where the students and staff can gather to create, invent, and collaborate. The students have already ensured Julie Green that they will make it happen. They are determined to make Dr. Ange’s vision a reality.
“The students are taking their grief in a positive direction by affecting change,” Green said. Likewise, Gnaegy has already had students come forward asking what they can do. One junior girl has proposed revitalizing the library in her honor as part of her senior project. There is even talk of a memorial scholarship.