William "Joe" Kortz (1958-2010)

Dr. William “Joe” Kortz (1958 – 2010) was assistant professor of bilingual education and educational technology in the Department of Urban Education at the University of Houston-Downtown. He earned his doctorate degree in bilingual education from the Sam Houston State University and served as a public school bilingual teacher for grades 3 through 5, and as an ESL teacher and coordinator for grades K through12 before coming to UHD. Dr. Kortz was the author of 13 books and numerous other publications, a consultant for Kits Instructional Technology, and the recipient of the Manchester Who's Who of Professionals and Business Executives in 2005. Most recently he was recognized by the American Biographical Institute as Man of The Year in Education for his outstanding contributions to education in 2009. Dr. Kortz served previously as a technology director for a distance learning initiative, and designed online programs for masters level courses in educational leadership and ESL certification.