CED Celebrates dr. john penick's service as department head
9.5.2008
The College of Education celebrated Dr. John Penick for his 10 years of dedicated service as Department Head of Math, Science and Technology Education (MSTE). Dr. Penick began service as head of MSTE in January 1998.
His career began as a teaching assistant at Florida State University. Following that he held positions at Loyola University and the University of Iowa, before assuming his role here at NC State.
Penick’s work has spanned nearly 40 years and his list of accomplishments is long and distinguished. He has served as president of both the National Science Teachers Association and the Association for the Education of Teachers in Science; was awarded the Gustav Ohaus Award (NSTA), twice; and honored with a Senior Fulbright Fellowship to Portugal. Penick has been recognized many times for his contributions to the field of science education—including his more than 250 publications.
The dedication of Dr. Penick to this College goes beyond his role as department head. He and his wife Nell established the John and Nell Penick Fellowship in Science Education in 2006 and their gift to the Friday Institute created the commons areas on the second floor. Their great generosity underscores a deep commitment to students and to the College.
“John’s contributions in the College and the Department are well and truly established. Under his stewardship, the department has flourished, enjoying success in its teaching, research and outreach missions. His leadership and vision are a living legacy. Thank you, John, for all that you have done and continue to do for this department, for the College, and for NC State!” commented Dean Kathryn Moore at the reception held in Penick’s honor on September 4.
Dr. Penick is stepping down and will continue on at the College of Education as a researcher and professor. As of September, Dr. Patricia Simmons is the new MSTE Department Head.
