While a wintry mix of precipitation was falling on roadways, two individuals traveled halfway across the state to present the Timothy M. Allwein Advocacy Award to Parkland School Board member Roberta Marcus.

Dr. Marcela Diaz Myers, first vice president of the Pa. School Boards Association, and Larry Feinberg, Penns Grant Region 15 director, commended Marcus for her leadership on behalf of public education.

Established in 2011 in honor of the late Tim Allwein, PSBA's former assistant executive director, the award is presented annually to an individual or entire school board to recognize outstanding legislative advocacy efforts for public schools.

Myers expressed admiration for Marcus' accomplishments.

"Roberta Marcus has made a tremendous impact on school boards in Pennsylvania," Myers said. "She is one of the most incredible people I have ever met. PSBA is extremely proud of you.

"Public education is under attack. Thank you for everything you do for public education."

Feinberg emphasized public education is about raising the next generation of American citizens.

He reported Marcus traveled from one end of the state to another for five years in her work with PSBA.

"Through her advocacy work-standing up for public education-she just has a way of inspiring you," Feinberg said.

Parkland board member Bob Bold said he has known Marcus in two centuries, the 20th and 21st. He worked with her on many endeavors on behalf of public education.

"I've joined her when she's visited legislators," Bold said. "Many know nothing about public education. She does this without getting nasty. She has the knack of speaking to them calmly."

Board member Mark Hanichak offered his comments.

"Roberta has an amazing record of accomplishment," he said.

Board member Rob Cohen also praised Marcus.

"You raised the bar for all of us," Cohen said.

Criteria considered for the advocacy award committee in selecting recipients included impact on legislation or legislators, mobilizing grassroots advocacy and raising public awareness.

Marcus was recognized for her prolific knowledge of key legislative issues at local, state and federal levels and her ability to articulate them to stakeholders of diverse backgrounds.

District Superintendent Richard Sniscak praised Marcus for not only being an advocate for public education in general, but also for Parkland School District wherever she goes.

Marcus offered comments on the award.

"Tim Allwein was my mentor and friend," she said. "He was incredibly passionate for public education.

"I am honored and humbled. I would not have been able to do so much for public education without the people in this room.

"We are highly functional and highly respectful. I do not do this alone."