Lycoming County legislator Rep. Brett O. Feese was presented with the College Service Award today at Pennsylvania College of Technology's commencement ceremonies at the Community Arts Center in Williamsport on Saturday.
The College Service Award, a prestigious honor presented in recognition of meritorious service to Penn College, has been awarded only 13 times since its inception in 1982.
Feese, R-Plunketts Creek Township, is majority whip of the House Republican Caucus and has served on the Penn College Board of Directors since 2000, having been appointed by the late House Speaker Matthew J. Ryan.
Penn College President Dr. Davie Jane Gilmour said she is grateful for Feese's unwavering support and tireless efforts to ensure that the College's unique role in higher education and workforce development in Pennsylvania is noted at the Capitol.
"Rep. Feese is committed to advancing the College's mission and continuing its educational excellence," Dr. Gilmour said. "He has been a staunch advocate for Penn College and its students, and the recognition we have received in Harrisburg and throughout the Commonwealth as a result of his work is of immeasurable value to this institution. We are pleased to be able to honor his commitment and exemplary service to the College in this fashion."
Feese has been instrumental in obtaining funding support for the College, including a new $13 million library that is expected to be completed by 2005.
In addition to the $7 million in state funds that will help pay for the library (to be known as the Roger and Peggy Madigan Learning Resources Center, in honor of the state senator and his late wife), Feese has also helped to secure $2 million over the past two years for instructional equipment for Penn College's academic programs.
Feese is in his fifth term as representative for the 84th District. He was elected majority whip in April, the third-ranking leadership post in the state House. He plays a key role in guiding the legislative agenda, building consensus on issues and ensuring members are present for votes. He has also served as caucus chairman. Previously, he served as chairman of the House Ethics Committee and chairman of the Judiciary Committee's Subcommittee on Trusts and Estates.
Prior to being elected to the House in1994, Feese served as Lycoming County district attorney from 1984-91. He has been a partner in the law firm of McNerney, Page, Vanderlin & Hall since 1982, and his association with that firm dates back to 1980.
Feese is a member of the Lycoming County Law Association, the Pennsylvania Bar Association, the Pennsylvania District Attorneys Association and the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys. He also is a member of the Lycoming County Arson Award Organization and the Driving Under the Influence Advisory Council.
A 1972 graduate of Montoursville High School, Feese earned a bachelor?s degree in political science from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and a law degree from Dickinson School of Law.
His community and civic affiliations include the Eureka Lodge 335, F&AM; Williamsport Consistory A.A.S.R.; the Williamsport/Lycoming Chamber of Commerce, the Jersey Shore Chamber of Commerce, the Montoursville Chamber of Commerce and the Southern Lycoming Chamber of Commerce.
Feese and his wife, Gwen, have two daughters, Jessica and Lauren.