The job of a teachers requires more than simply communicating a lesson to a classroom of students. It requires teachers to personally and professionally develop in order to meet different types of students where they are. The tactics and teaching style that work for one student, may not work for another. Niagara University Future Teacher Association (NUFTA) is a club that allows future teachers to expand their horizons and become more well-rounded.
NUFTA brings together students from all four undergraduate years who are preparing to become educators. Norline Wild, Ph.D., serves as the faculty advisor, supporting an organization led by a student leadership team. This structure provides students with valuable opportunities to develop their leadership skills and help shape the association’s activities.
NUFTA treasurer, Emily Butski, said, “I chose to get involved in NUFTA my freshmen year because I was excited to learn more about the educational field and hear from professionals about methods and technology they have used throughout their careers.” She has chosen to pursue a Masters in School Counseling once finished with her Bachelors in Early Childhood and Childhood Education. She believes that the lessons from NUFTA will be equally helpful as she pursues the adjacent field of school counseling.
Through monthly meetings, members engage in service projects while enriching their personal and professional development. Meeting topics have included resume writing, preparing for student teaching, exploring their “why” for teaching, building positive classroom communities and strong relationships, Indigenous education, and food insecurity. University faculty and outside guests are often invited to share their expertise.
Secretary of NUFTA, Abby Ras, has received a lot of value from the guest speakers they have brought in. She said, “Hearing their different experiences and stories is always inspiring and reminds me why I chose to become a teacher in the first place. They remind me of the impact teachers can have on their students and make me even more excited for my future in education!”
Members also support schools and organizations throughout Niagara County through activities such as Trunk or Treat events, holiday dances, and book fairs. On campus, NUFTA has co-sponsored a food drive supporting FeedMore WNY.
Last year, the association began a wonderful collaboration with the Francis Center, hosting a Disney-themed evening of fun for after-school students. The Francis Center hosts an after school program for up to 30 students in kindergarten or first grade. NUFTA members designed and facilitated activities for the children, creating opportunities for connection, community engagement, and hands-on experience working with young learners.
Members also visited Gigi’s Playhouse in Kenmore to learn about the programs and support services available to individuals with Down syndrome and their families. The organization offers free educational and therapeutic services, as well as, career development programs. They are committed to partnering with individuals with Down syndrome, their families, and the community. GiGi’s Buffalo facility features a teaching kitchen, their “Get Fit Gym,” and tutoring labs.
Through these experiences, NUFTA provides students with opportunities to grow as future educators, develop leadership skills, connect with community organizations, and make a positive difference both within and beyond the university. “Joining NUFTA has helped me become more confident and excited about my future as a teacher. It has allowed me to connect with other future educators, share ideas, and learn about different experiences within the teaching profession. Being involved has also reminded me why I chose this career in the first place: to make a difference in children’s lives, advocate for my students, and create a classroom where every child feels supported and valued,” said Ras when summing up her experience being involved with the club.
NUFTA, established in 2004, is a club committed to pursuing these opportunities for future teachers. More information about the club can be found on their Instagram page. For more information about Niagara University’s College of Education, click here.
