Environmental studies professor named '2007 Pennsylvania Professor of the Year'

Posted: Tue, 20 Nov 2007

GETTYSBURG, Pa. - Gettysburg College environmental studies and biology professor John Commito was named the 2007 Pennsylvania Professor of the Year by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching and the National Council for Advancement and Support of Education. He was recognized at a November awards dinner in Washington, D.C.

Former chair of the environmental studies department at the College, Commito's research on the ecology of the sea floor takes him to a number of study sites throughout the United States. His primary sites are in Maine, Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia, where he investigates predator-prey interactions, animal dispersal mechanisms, and mathematical models of population distribution patterns. Other interests include land-use issues and the impact of the automobile on American culture and environment.

"I am so proud that one of our faculty members at Gettysburg College has been recognized with this prestigious award," said Gettysburg College Provost Janet Riggs. "John's accomplishments are many, and this award recognizes the outstanding work he does with students on a daily basis."

Commito earned a bachelor's degree in biology at Cornell University and doctorate in marine science at Duke University. Prior to coming to Gettysburg College in 1993, he taught at Hood College and was named the Maryland Professor of the Year in 1991 by the same organization.

Gettysburg College is a highly selective four-year residential college of liberal arts and sciences with approximately 2,600 students. It is located on a 200-acre campus adjacent to Gettysburg National Military Park in Pennsylvania. The college was founded in 1832.

 

Issued: 11/20/07

By: Kendra Martin 

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