From Distinguished Faculty to Student Awards, Semester Ends Celebrating Leadership Achievements

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 21, 2010

MEDIA CONTACT
Jo Kadlecek
Office of College Communications
978.867.4752
[email protected]

Wenham, MA—Under a breezy blue sky, Gordon’s 118th commencement on Saturday, May 18, honored the academic efforts and professional development of 343 graduates. Specific seniors had earlier been recognized during Gordon’s honors convocation for their leadership achievements. Both events were the culmination of four years of learning from professors recognized throughout the country for their particular expertise.

In keeping with Gordon tradition, two faculty members also received honors for their service, voted on by their colleagues and acknowledged during the graduation ceremony by Provost Mark Sargent. This year’s senior distinguished faculty award was presented to Professor Irv Levy of Hamilton, MA, professor of chemistry and computer science and chair of the chemistry department, who has served students and colleagues in the two departments since 1985. As part of his innovative leadership with green chemistry, Levy recently was elected as national chair of the program committee for the American Chemical Society’s Chemical Education Division.

“Irv’s endeavors have made Gordon a leader in green chemistry education, which has now won wide admiration and respect within both the academy and industry,” Sargent said. “He enthusiastically engages students in professional societies, and is known for making complex materials accessible, relevant and invigorating. I’ve always admired him for his commitment to leave the world God gave us a cleaner and healthier place for the next generation.”

This year’s junior distinguished faculty award was presented to Steve Alter of Ipswich, MA, associate professor of history who has taught at Gordon since 2000. Alter’s work includes contributions ranging from biblical historicity and biological sciences to linguistics and jazz. Most recently, he received a prestigious research grant from the American Philosophical Society.

“In addition to his intellectual curiosity, Steve is greatly appreciated around campus for his conscientious teaching, his thoughtful mentoring of young scholars and his unpretentious collegiality,” said Sargent. “He is always willing to step into the leadership role that is needed, whether that means serving as moderator of the social science division, as the chair of the history department, or as the creator of new courses for education majors.”

During the 2009–2010 Spring Honors Convocation, many student leaders were also recognized for their achievements, including the following seniors:

Collegian of the Year: Gabriel S. DiMauro of Haverhill, MA, Pike Scholar—History/ French;
President James Forrester Award: Sarah G. Berube of Hudson, MA, Math/Secondary Education;
President’s Award: Jordan Montgomery of Newport, OR, Physics, Math/Biblical Studies;
Presidential Servant Leader Award: Kate Kirby of Orono, ME, Spanish;    
Presidential Servant Leader Award: Aaron Trigg of Overland Park, KS, Business Administration.

For a complete listing of student awards and honors, please contact the Gordon College Registrar’s office, 978.867.4351.

<< BACK