Students who walked the halls of Suter Science Center in the 1970s, ‘80s or ‘90s well know the remarkable influence of these extraordinary educators and mentors. Recognize and honor their legacy of teaching, mentorship and scholarship with a gift towards the name of the new Advanced Chemistry Lab in the renovated Suter Science Center – an important learning space for upper-level students and the faculty who mentor them in labs and research related to analytical chemistry, environmental chemistry, biochemistry and molecular biology.
“Throughout the Suter Science Capital Campaign, our alumni frequently praised the faculty who taught and mentored them as students. These three professors had a profound impact upon the students preparing for medical or other science careers,” said Kirk Shisler, vice president for advancement. “As we conclude our final phase of fundraising to renovate Suter West, this is a wonderful opportunity to recognize influential mentors and teachers.”
DR. GLENN M. KAUFFMAN In addition to chairing the chemistry department for many years, Glenn M. Kauffman is a Renaissance man who is skilled and conversant in a broad range of areas, including philosophy, theology, music, gardening and sports. His academic contributions extended beyond his specialty of organic chemistry to the pre-professional health sciences and the sciences in general. In retirement, Dr. Kauffman continues his many extracurricular activities, including gardening. He is active in the American Rhododendron Society.
DR. GARY L. STUCKY (1941-2005) Gary L. Stucky came to EMU to teach chemistry after several years with a private lab, including one year in tropical disease research with Mennonite Central Committee in Africa. He taught at EMU from 1972 to 1993, and also at Bethel College, University of Rochester (New York) and James Madison University. An enthusiastic teacher, he was also remembered for his care for others. He completed pastoral studies training at Eastern Mennonite Seminary and was commissioned as a chaplain by the Western District Conference of Mennonite Church USA in 2003.
MR. ROBERT D. YODER (1929-2005) Robert D. Yoder taught human biology, microbiology and immunology courses at EMU from 1963 to 1995 and was the advisor to EMU’s medical technology students. A 1957 graduate, he earned a master’s degree from James Madison University and then served as a lab assistant to Dr. Daniel B. Suter in 1962. After completing the medical technology program at Rockingham Memorial Hospital during a 1977 sabbatical, Mr. Yoder worked in the laboratory there part time during the week and full time during summers doing blood chemistry analysis until his retirement. He also volunteered many hours at the Harrisonburg Free Clinic and as a laboratory technician in the Suter Science Center. An avid angler, birdwatcher and environmentalist, he was a former president of the Massanutten chapter of Trout Unlimited.
