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Dr. Miriam Marguerita Gomez Witmer, associate professor in Department of Educational Foundations, received a Keepers of the Flame Award from the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education this October at the PASSHE Summit held at PennWest Clarion.
The award recognizes an individual from each of the 14 PASSHE university campuses for their contributions to creating and promoting diverse, equitable and inclusive environments that cultivate a sense of belonging. Award recipients may be students, staff, faculty, administrators or community members.
Witmer coordinates Millersville University’s Future Educator Pathway, a pipeline program to address both the national teacher shortage and the underrepresentation of teachers of color. The program also supports current Millersville students of color who are education majors by providing them with leadership opportunities, professional experiences, a support group network, and a faculty mentor who works with them through the certification process.
Witmer was instrumental in creating a summer Future Educator Academy for high school students. Exclusive to Millersville’s campus, the program serves students from school districts across the state by connecting them with faculty, college student mentors and a campus residential experience. In addition, she is actively involved in mentoring local middle school and high school students through her Side-by-Side program, which provides local middle school and high school students with college mentors throughout the school year.
Additionally, she is an Equity and Inclusion Faculty Fellow and Trainer, past chair of MU’s President’s Commission on Cultural Diversity and Inclusion and a member of the Pennsylvania Educator Diversity Consortium. She is a board member of the International Mentoring Association, where she shares her expertise in culturally relevant mentoring.
“I am deeply honored to receive the Keeper of the Flame award,” explains Witmer. “This recognition is a celebration of the collective efforts of all those who strive to foster a culture of diversity, equity, and belonging on our campus. It is my great privilege to serve our students in numerous capacities, but most importantly as a mentor and advocate. I am grateful for the colleagues and students who have walked this journey with me. Your passion and dedication inspire me every day. Let us continue to light the way forward, ensuring that everyone feels valued and heard, and no one walks this path alone.”
Dr. Lara Willox, dean of the College of Education and Human Services, says that Witmer works tirelessly for her students. “Miriam Witmer exemplifies what it means to put students first. Her unwavering dedication to listening to, valuing, and elevating student voices influences every decision she makes. Miriam’s commitment ensures that education at Millersville University isn’t just about learning—it’s about creating a sense of belonging.”
“The Keepers of the Flame Award honors individuals whose leadership, dedication and impact have strengthened the PASSHE community,” said Christa Cobb, assistant vice chancellor and chief diversity, equity and inclusion officer. “These recipients exemplify how a commitment to student success, inclusive excellence and academic achievement can transform lives, open doors and inspire others across our campuses.”
