Ed Glantz, senior lecturer in the College of Information Sciences and Technology (IST), was recently named the recipient of IST’s 2015-16 McMurtry Award. As part of his recognition, Glantz will present the annual McMurtry Award Lecture, "Together We Are Smarter,” at noon Thursday, Oct. 27, in room 208 in the IST Building on Penn State’s University Park campus.
Established in 2002, the McMurtry Award is given annually to an IST faculty member who teaches at least one undergraduate course at the University Park campus. Funded by George McMurtry, one of the founders of IST and former associate dean of the College of Engineering, the award celebrates faculty who demonstrate innovative teaching methods, a commitment to student learning, and creative interaction with students.
“It is wonderful to be recognized, but also quite humbling,” said Glantz. “I am grateful to colleagues from whom I have borrowed creativity, as well as my students who elevate classroom peer learning.”
Glantz received the award in part for his uncommon versatility in the classroom, teaching courses in both the Information Sciences and Technology and Security and Risk Analysis majors. He has educated over 11,000 students, from introductory to graduate courses, both residential and online. One particular reward he enjoys from having connections with so many students is "visiting with former students on [their] recruiting trips to University Park.”
Prior to his career in higher education, he earned 20 years of global business and engineering experience managing technology, research, and marketing in the manufacturing and telecommunications sectors. After spending the previous 10 years as a faculty member in Penn State’s Smeal College of Business, Glantz joined IST in 2009. His far-reaching background allows him to prepare students for their careers by bringing the real world to the classroom.
“Penn State has some of the best students in the world, and IST is fortunate to attract its fair share,” Glantz said. “I enjoy helping students transition from high school and realize their potential to succeed here, as well as in their careers.”
The IST Awards Committee selected Glantz for the award based on his use of innovative teaching techniques, from developing new courses to crafting exercises that promote learning and approach pedagogy in a new light. Glantz was commended for his personal commitment to evolving his teaching skills, ability to adapt course content and delivery, and talent in connecting with students.
“Dr. Glantz structures his classes for students to succeed and gain practical experience that is directly applicable to the career world,” said Sage Ingram, a senior majoring in IST and security and risk analysis who had several classes with Glantz and served as his learning assistant for five semesters. “He teaches students key security and risk management topics with relevant real world examples from the ever-changing technology world.”
Glantz will use his lecture to discuss how to build community in the classroom through the implementation of game mechanics to make classrooms smaller and more personal. As part of his award, Glantz received a cash sum to use toward learning-enhancement initiatives, and will have his name affixed to a permanent award plaque displayed in the IST Building.
While he is still deciding how he’ll use the award funds, one thing remains clear to Glantz: “Teaching and learning is a community effort.”