Herkimer College Torchbearers

Four retired Herkimer College faculty members were recognized for their commitment and accomplishments at Herkimer College at a ceremony held at the College on October 18, 2024.

For over 25 years, Herkimer College has presented the Torchbearer Award to honor those who have had a profound impact in the development and success of the College. Officer-in-Charge Nicholas Laino spoke to the history and foundational goal of the Torchbearer Award, stating; “…the first Torchbearer plaques were unveiled here on this wall. And since then, every five years, the Board of Trustees has selected an exceptional group for this esteemed and lasting recognition.”

Dr. Faye Eichholzer began her impact as an English instructor in 1978. She was promoted to professor in 1991, later serving as temporary assistant dean, interim dean, and chairperson of the Humanities/Social Science division. Beyond these achievements, Dr. Eichholzer developed the campus childcare center, the “Writing Across the Curriculum” program, and a support group, NETWORK, for returning adult students. Dr. Eichholzer’s impact on education is evident not only in her named achievements, but in the lives she impacted. Eichholzer’s dedication and life work earned her numerous accolades including SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching in 1985 and Teaching on the Net Award in 2001.

Dr. Anne Greco was honored posthumously. She joined the College as instructor of English in 1968 and was promoted to professor in 1984. Her accomplishments included development of the Humanities program, serving as advisor to the College newspaper and literary magazine, and development of the writing lab and Honor’s Program. In her time at the College, she served as chairperson for the Humanities Division and several other committees. Dr. Greco was an impactful creative writer and published author and was recognized for her achievements in education in 1978, receiving the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching.

Raymond Lenarcic was among the founding faculty starting his tenure in 1967 as a history teacher, later rising to professor in 1980. In his time, Lenarcic dedicated himself to advocacy and activism, with a focus on Vietnam Veterans and the Native American community. In his teaching, he focused on the imperative nature of keeping an open mind, participating in community service, and putting words into action. Lenarcic was essential in the establishment of the Herkimer County Veterans Memorial Park, and a driving force behind College participation in the Gram Lorraine Children’s Christmas Program, Students for a Better World, Herkimer County Hunger Coalition and more. Lenarcic received the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching in 1980.

William Pelz holds the title of longest-serving faculty, having begun teaching Psychology at Herkimer College 1968, and promoted to professor in 1980. Pelz was instrumental in the creation of the Internet Academy and its success. His work in this endeavor led to invitations from universities in Chile and South Africa for Pelz to consult on their online programs. Pelz served on several committees at the College and was awarded two SUNY Chancellor’s Awards for Excellence in 1994 and 2006 for teaching, and scholarship and creative activities. Pelz retired from his 50-year career in 2018 and continued to serve on a part-time basis.

The Herkimer College Board of Trustees Chairman, Michael Stalteri, spoke to the lasting impact and success of these honorees and said, “The influence of these four educators extends far beyond their classrooms. They have been steadfast role models for their students, as well as their peers and colleagues here at Herkimer, across the SUNY system, and beyond. Their contributions are woven into the fabric of this institution and have touched the lives of many, shaping futures and fostering growth.”