technology for General Electric — Hitachi Nuclear, Loewen is also a member of the President’s Blue Ribbon Commission on Nuclear Energy. Dr. Loewen’s remarks were titled, “The Role of Professional Societies in Your Career.” He noted, “The difference between a job and a career is getting involved.” He suggested that students become responsible leaders, observing that to do so, “you need to be concerned about people, you need to be concerned about the institution you work for, and plan on how you’ll continue to grow, which becomes your driving goal.”

The induction ceremony was highlighted by the presentation of the first Dr. Robert L. Long Award for Academic Excellence in Nuclear Engineering Technology. A longtime member of the College’s faculty, the late Dr. Long was known and respected across the world as an authority on the safe and peaceful use of nuclear energy. The Long Award is presented annually to an Excelsior BS in Nuclear Engineering Technology graduate who best exemplifies the criteria of aca- demic excellence, as evidenced by membership in the Alpha Nu Sigma Nuclear Honor Society and academic record, including performance in the capstone course, NUC 495.

The recipient was Teegan B. Wheaton, a 2010 graduate of the BS in Nuclear Engineering Technology program, who achieved a 4.0 grade point average. Currently on active duty in the U.S. Navy, Wheaton completed the Navy Nuclear Power School program, supplementing his learning with courses from several universities and colleges, including Excelsior. Wheaton, although unable to attend the event in person, sent a letter, read by Dean LeClair, in which he wrote, “What an honor to receive this award … I am completely humbled by its presentation.”

President Ebersole Receives Secretary of the Army Award

Medal recognizes exceptional public service to the U.S. Army

President John F. Ebersole received the Secretary of the Army Public Service Award during Commencement in recognition of exceptional public service that makes a substantial contribution to the accomplishment of the Army’s mission.

Granted to private citizens, it is the second highest award the Secretary can bestow. A medal and citation were presented to Ebersole on behalf of the Secretary of the Army by Lt. Gen. Arthur J. Gregg (USA Ret.), Lt. Gen. Joseph S. Laposata (USA Ret.), both Excelsior trustees, and Maj. Gen. Joseph J. Taluto (USA Ret.), former adjutant general of New York State and an Excelsior College alum (BSL ’86).

In the citation accompanying the medal, Secretary of the Army John McHugh noted Ebersole’s progressive and innovative leadership of pro- grams that benefit Army personnel. During Ebersole’s tenure, the College has become an onsite course provider at the U.S. Army Sergeants Major Academy, introduced a Military Spouse Scholarship program, established Excelsior’s Center for Professional Development, and created and staffed a veterans’ services and outreach program. The citation reads,

“As a result of these and other efforts, soldiers are attaining their educational goals to better serve our nation while in uniform and to improve their options upon entering civilian employment.”