×

Emeritus status to two retired faculty

Two recently retired faculty members at Pennsylvania College of Technology have been granted “faculty emeritus” status by the institution.

The emeritus recommendations for Sandra Lakey, associate professor of speech communication-composition, and Thomas Mulfinger, associate professor of building construction technology, both were approved by the Penn College Board of Directors.

Part of the college community

Lakey retired in August following 37 years of service to the college, having started her employment in 1982 at Penn College’s immediate predecessor institution, Williamsport Area Community College.

Throughout her entire career, Lakey was an integral member of the college community. She was active as a committee chair in the internal governance system, a leader in developing the First Year Experience course and a champion of writing across the curriculum. Additionally, she served as chair of the college’s Promotion and Sabbatical Review Committee and chair of the Department of Communications and Literature.

Lakey has given numerous presentations and workshops throughout her career including, “The David London My Last Words” presentation at the college, which is based on the premise: “If given one last chance to speak to students, what would you say?” Lakey dedicated her presentation to London, a Penn College colleague and friend who died earlier that year.

Also, she was lead presenter for one of the Daniel J. Doyle Technology and Society Colloquia Series programs at the college, discussing technology and interpersonal relationships.

Lakey holds a bachelor’s degree and a master’s of education in English from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, as well as a doctorate in speech communication from The Pennsylvania State University.

Excellence in Teaching

Mulfinger was employed at the college from 1986 until his retirement in August. He was honored with an Excellence in Teaching Award in 2018 and an Excellence in Academic Advising Award in 2014. He served as a department head from 2005-08.

He also taught a First Year Experience course at the college, and he participated in teaching a class for the Boy Scouts’ Merit Badge Program.

Mulfinger holds an associates degree in carpentry and building construction from Williamsport Area Community College, as well as bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Penn State in vocational industrial education and vocational industrial education (training and development emphasis), respectively.

“Dr. Lakey and Mr. Mulfinger have made extraordinary contributions to our institution, and I am pleased that their efforts are being recognized through the faculty emeritus designation,” said Michael Reed, vice president for academic affairs and provost. “Their selfless commitment to our students and college has generated long-term opportunities that will benefit many for years to come.”

NEWSLETTER

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *
   

Starting at $4.62/week.

Subscribe Today