Launching a Legacy

Published 03.07.2022

Spring 2022, Volume 31, Number 1
Magazine

When Davie Jane Gilmour announced her June 2022 retirement, she launched the public phase of the Legacy Campaign for Penn College, intending to set the stage for future leaders, students, alumni and employers.

Campaign supporters are helping to create opportunities for deserving students in three impactful areas: equipment & facilities that enhance cutting-edge instruction, scholarships that increase access to innovative education, and academics & affinity programming that inspires students to explore their passions.

Equipment & Facilities

Building the framework for success.

Laserline Inc. has extended its entrustment of a laser power source to Pennsylvania College of Technology’s welding and metal fabrication program.

The 2-kilowatt laser power source, entrusted to the college by Laserline Inc., enables an operational laser cell used for upper-level courses in the college’s 55,000-square-foot welding lab. Photo courtesy of Laserline

The 2-kilowatt laser power source, entrusted to the college by Laserline Inc., enables an operational laser cell used for upper-level courses in the college’s 55,000-square-foot welding lab. Photo courtesy of Laserline

“Laserline is proud to partner with Penn College through this extended entrustment. The company believes in supporting education and helping to develop the next generation of laser welding experts, and the hands-on nature of Penn College’s curriculum is an ideal fit.”

Wolfgang Todt
vice president of operations for Laserline

 

“We are one of a few institutions that couples laser welding technology with 6-axis robots. This provides flexibility that can’t be replicated on traditional laser cutting beds. Laserline’s technology helps take the curriculum experience to the next level.”

Ryan P. Good ’01
assistant professor of welding

Forty students in the college’s heavy construction equipment technology: operator emphasis major are gaining valuable hands-on experience at the college’s 125-acre heavy equipment operations site, using excavators loaned by industry partners.

Among those learning hands-on with an EC220 E excavator on loan from Volvo Construction Equipment and Highway Equipment & Supply Co. are students (from left) Christian J. English; Jared T. Corson (in cab); and John F. Montague (who is also pursuing a bachelor’s degree in applied management).

Among those learning hands-on with an EC220 E excavator on loan from Volvo Construction Equipment and Highway Equipment & Supply Co. are students (from left) Christian J. English; Jared T. Corson (in cab); and John F. Montague (who is also pursuing a bachelor’s degree in applied management).

“Giving students the experience of Volvo technology will serve not only Highway Equipment and Volvo, but all of our customers who rely on Penn College students and graduates to bring a wide foundation of skill to their employer. We greatly appreciate the talent and quality graduates recruited from the college to support Highway Equipment & Supply’s technical needs and our customers’ technical needs.”

Ryan Flood
vice president for Highway Equipment and Penn College Program Advisory Committee member

 

“We are grateful for the continued support of Highway Equipment & Supply and Volvo Construction Equipment. Our students remain excited to have different industry leaders as part of the curriculum and to learn the different facets of technology by Volvo.”

Ryan W. Peck ’00
instructor of diesel equipment technology

Sholarships

Creating the launchpad for opportunity

The 13th Foundation Dinner & Auction at Pennsylvania College of Technology generated commitments totaling $600,700 for student scholarships. 

  • 49 items auctioned, including items made or donated by students, alumni, and current or retired faculty
  • Cunningham Family announces significant pledge to the Legacy Campaign in honor of Gilmour
  • $200,000+ pledged to the Don E. Waltman Memorial Scholarship by dozens of community members and businesses
Student college relations assistants Rudy C. Shadle, construction management; Lauryn A. Stauffer, automation engineering technology: robotics & automation; Sydney M. Telesky, human services and restorative justice; and Ally N. Moore, graphic design, assisted guests at the Penn College Foundation Dinner & Auction. Photo courtesy of Becky J. Shaner

Student college relations assistants Rudy C. Shadle, construction management; Lauryn A. Stauffer, automation engineering technology: robotics & automation; Sydney M. Telesky, human services and restorative justice; and Ally N. Moore, graphic design, assisted guests at the Penn College Foundation Dinner & Auction. Photo courtesy of Becky J. Shaner

“The strength of community and the value of an applied technology education was clearly affirmed through the generosity of our loyal advocates. Scholarship funding creates access and transforms lives. Hundreds of students will benefit from the generosity that was demonstrated at the Dinner & Auction. It was overwhelming and inspiring, a night that I will never forget and always cherish. On behalf of our hardworking, innovative students, I share my heartfelt thanks to all who contributed to this meaningful event.”

Davie Jane Gilmour
Penn College president

Academics & Affinity

Expanding minds and horizons.

A gift from Dan and Monica Klingerman funded the renovation of the Wildcat Athletics offices, now known as The Klingerman Family Athletics Suite. The overhaul offers a welcoming and spirited experience for prospective student-athletes and their families. The gift also established the Klingerman Family Wrestling Fund.

In 2020-21:

  • 88 athletes on the dean’s list
  • 3.31 overall student-athlete GPA
  • 2 teams competed in NCAA Division III Championships

“Investing in education is the gateway to the future. Strong academics, paired with a quality student-athlete experience, helps build a foundation for a rewarding career and a successful life. The first visit to campus is impactful. Student-athletes envision their futures, and we want to help them see clearly what life as a Wildcat will offer them.”

Dan and Monica Klingerman
The Liberty Group

Facilities within the Klingerman Family Athletics Suite now carry a bold look and upgraded functionality, while offering a cutting-edge atmosphere to better serve current and future Wildcats.

Facilities within the Klingerman Family Athletics Suite now carry a bold look and upgraded functionality, while offering a cutting-edge atmosphere to better serve current and future Wildcats.

Ways to Give

Interested in supporting the Legacy Campaign? 

Contact the Office of College Relations at 570-320-8020 or collegerelations@pct.edu

Learn more