Faculty members in biology and business administration were the recipients of the "Excellence in Teaching" awards presented by Pennsylvania College of Technology at commencement ceremonies held Saturday, May 19, at the Community Arts Center.
The 2001 awards went to Ann Marie Furdock of South Williamsport, an associate professor of biology, and Dr. Irwin H. Siegel, also of South Williamsport, an assistant professor of business administration.
The awards are presented each May to full-time faculty members who have been nominated by students and colleagues for the excellence of their instructional performance.
"Teaching is the heart of Penn College," said Penn College President Dr. Davie Jane Gilmour. "We place very high values on teaching and the learning process. In recognizing teaching excellence, we demonstrate the best of the best at Penn College. In recognizing the excellence that takes place in our classrooms and laboratories, we celebrate the mission of the College."
Furdock, who received her award at the morning commencement ceremony, has taught at Penn College since 1983. She was promoted to assistant professor in 1988 and to associate professor in 1992. Furdock earned her bachelor's and master's degrees from the University of Scranton. She has teaching experience at the secondary level and has served as head of her current department.
Some comments from the nomination documentation for Furdock include:
- "She relates well to the diverse learning styles of each student by employing visual, auditory and kinesthetic means of teaching."
- "Her most meaningful attribute is that she really cares about her students. She willingly gives of herself to see that students succeed in their college careers and in life in general."
- And, from a colleague: "Students get to see her in her role as a department head, and many of these students get to experience her compassion and her encouragement."
Siegel, who was presented with his award at the afternoon commencement ceremony, began work at Penn College in 1998 as an assistant professor. He earned a bachelor's degree from Lebanon Valley College, a law degree from Dickinson School of Law, a master's of law degree from Widener University School of Law and a doctorate in education from The Pennsylvania State University. In addition, he has extensive experience in general law practice and in the financial world.
Some excerpts from Siegel's nomination documentation include:
- "Expresses concepts and thoughts very efficiently and with much enthusiasm."
- "Emphasizes 'life application' learning and evaluates comprehension, rather than rote memorization."
- "Excellent rapport with students and colleagues. Kind and friendly, happy and respectful of others."
- And, from a colleague: "He is the consummate professional. He strives to improve his daily performance in front of the classroom, holds more office hours than needed, is available virtually 'round-the-clock, offers assistance to new faculty members and is an excellent adviser to students."
Since 1982, 59 Distinguished Teaching Awards have been presented at Penn College, and 42 of those honorees continue to teach at the institution.