Eleven students and a recent alumna comprise the 2022 class of inductees to Pennsylvania College of Technology's chapter of SALUTE, a national veterans honor society.Formed in 2009 at Colorado State University, SALUTE is the first national academic honor society established for student veterans – and active military – at two- and four-year institutions of higher education. There are more than 400 chapters across the United States, comprising over 20,000 students.
"To be recognized for your commitment to Service, Academics, Leadership, Unity, Tribute and Excellence equally is a testament to your overall fortitude," said guest speaker Carolyn R. Strickland, vice president for enrollment management/associate provost. "Undeniably, each of you has a personal story filled with examples of situations and experiences that tested your strength."
Welcomed at a Dec. 1 ceremony, held in the presentation room and lobby of the Davie Jane Gilmour Center, were:Air Force
Jade A. Cordrey, of Muncy, nursing
Aldwin Gacote, of Williamsport, health science
Phillipe L. Tondreau, of Williamsport, residential construction technology & management
Army
Joshua S. Burke, of Williamsport, network administration & engineering technology
Stephen A. Frederick, of Williamsport, forest technology
Aleah K. Gemberling, of Middleburg, pre-nursing
Marines
Nathan L. Caputo, of Williamsport, residential construction technology & management
Cody R. Englehart, of Williamsport, human services & restorative justice
Alex N. Hernandez, of Pittsburgh, construction management
Navy
Hayden A. Brooks, of Montoursville, welding & fabrication engineering technology
Jerry R. Kepich, of Chesapeake Beach, Md., automotive technology management
Daun Williamson, of Linden, a May 2022 graduate in building construction technology
During her remarks, Strickland conveyed the institution's pride in the inductees' achievements and contributions to the campus culture.
"Our faculty consistently report higher levels of focus and meaningful engagement with our veteran students," said Strickland, who is the administrative liaison to the college's Army ROTC unit and to the Veteran & Military Services Office. "GPAs and graduation rates among our student veteran population are strong and often are reported higher than the non-veteran population."
In addition, she noted, veterans contribute diversity to campus discussions, provide mentoring and exhibit leadership that sets a very high bar for their fellow students.
"Earning a college degree is not easy," Strickland said. "But these high-performing practices that have earned your entrée into SALUTE will lead you to that goal if you stay focused and motivated. You will excel in your careers with these same behaviors; they are the values and skills that employers seek in our graduates."
Including this year's inductees, the Penn College chapter has 29 members.