'Pathfinder' Award Honors Diesel Equipment Technology Instructor

The lead faculty member in Pennsylvania College of Technology's diesel equipment technology department has been honored by the college and Caterpillar Inc. with the annual "Pathfinder to Excellence" award.

William P. Kilcoyne Jr., an instructor in the School of Natural Resources Management, received the award earlier this month during a meeting of Caterpillar officials and dealers at the college's Schneebeli Earth Science Center near Allenwood.

Presented since 2003, the award recognizes a faculty member who "develops effective teaching techniques, enhances learning materials, demonstrates a keen sensitivity to student needs and maintains high academic standards."

Kilcoyne received a commemorative plaque and a cash award, made possible by matching contributions from the Caterpillar Foundation and regional dealerships. Students were among his nominators; their comments about the honoree include:

• "When he gives a lecture he always has visual reference material."
• "Mr. Kilcoyne has a very open approach to student learning. He is always there for his students and is willing to help in any way he can. He doesn't assume that everyone knows what they are doing he explains the materials so well that someone that didn't know about diesels could learn and understand."
• "Eager to help students find employment or introduce them to people they need to know."
• "Mr. Kilcoyne loves his job, and it reflects in his teaching methods. I wish I had a teacher like Mr. Kilcoyne for every class I have. He is the type of teacher I would model myself after if I was going to be a teacher. I am very happy I could learn from an outstanding individual like Mr. Kilcoyne."

For more about the School of Natural Resources Management at Penn College, call (570) 320-8038, send e-mail or visit online .