With the new academic year beginning, outstanding faculty and staff from last year were recognized on Aug. 21 as part of All Campus Day.
Awards were presented by Tina Q. Richardson, chancellor of Penn State Lehigh Valley, and Mark Gruskin, associate director, academic affairs, Penn State Lehigh Valley.
Faculty honored for academic excellence, notable service, innovative teaching and exceptional research included:
-- Leigh Cundari, who received the 2020 Teaching Excellence Award for full-time faculty.
Cundari, assistant teaching professor, rehabilitation and human services, was flattered by her nomination but chose to not submit materials for review by the award selection committee due to her retirement after the spring 2020 semester. This did not stop her colleagues from submitting the material in her behalf, as they felt it was crucial to have her recognized. She was nominated due to her strong connections with her student base throughout her professional career. One student is noted in saying “I always leave her class feeling like I have a purpose in life.” Her impact is said to be felt even through her retirement, and for many years to come. A colleague who nominated her wrote, “Dr. Cundari’s work is far reaching and lasting. The triple effect of Leigh Cundari’s influence is important, powerful and immeasurable.”