Millersville University’s 2018-19 Educator of the Year

Dr. Carol Ely Hepfer is Millersville University’s 2018-19 Educator of the Year. The biology professor was recently selected by Millersville University’s Faculty Senate and the Educator of the Year Award Selection Committee.

With her early love for biology encouraged by her parents, Carol (Ely) was eager to learn more. She earned her bachelor’s degree and teaching certificate in biology from Wilson College. She completed her Ph.D. thesis in genetics at Bryn Mawr College and postdoctoral research at the Fox Chase Cancer Center. Since 1982, Dr. Hepfer has taught at Millersville University.

Over the years Hepfer has shared her love of biology with thousands of students; teaching several courses to both majors and non-majors. She routinely teaches Genetics and Molecular Biology, General Biology, and an advanced course in Human Genetics. More than 80 students have done research in her lab, with 26 completing honors theses and 8 earning their Master’s degrees. She is proud that many of her students have gone on to graduate and professional schools, and that most are working as scientists or educators. While collaborating with her students, Hepfer has received numerous grants, co-authored several papers, and made many research presentations. Hepfer has also participated in several redesigns of the biology curriculum, including the development of the Molecular Biology program. She also served in the role of Chair of the Department and as Biology Graduate Coordinator during her extensive career.

“Being selected as the Educator of the Year Award is a great honor,” says Hepfer. “After 37 years of teaching, this acknowledgement means a great deal to me. I believe my devotion to teaching and efforts as an educator have positively affected my students and colleagues. I am proud to be considered as one of the Millersville University faculty members who have successfully supported and empowered students as they realize and achieve their goals.”

The Educator of the Year Award is awarded to one faculty/staff member in recognition of sustained outstanding teaching, to include counseling, mentoring, and advising of the undergraduate and graduate students at Millersville University. We are pleased to recognize Dr. Hepfer as the Educator of the Year.

Additional information on the Educator of the Year Award and a list of previous awardees can be found at: http://www.millersville.edu/fsenate/educator-of-the-year-award.php