Dr. Flath Wins Gussler Award | ACTC
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    Dr. Flath Wins Gussler Award

    Published on May 9, 2017

    Dr. Mary Catherine Flath, Professor of Anatomy & Physiology at Ashland Community and Technical College, has received the annual Gussler Family Endowed Chair in Science and Mathematics Award.  The award was announced at ACTC’s Graduation Ceremony May 5.

    This is the third time that Dr. Flath has received the prestigious award established by Dr. C. Gordon Gussler and his wife Dixie Gussler in 2007 to recognize full-time math and science faculty who foster in their students a desire to learn and reach their maximum potential.

    One science or mathematics professor or associate professor is selected for the award each year, and each recipient receives a financial stipend, equal to two percent of the value of the endowment fund, for two years. 

    Recipients are nominated by students, fellow faculty or college staff.  Award criteria are inspiring students to develop capabilities they did not realize they had, empowering and motivating students to succeed beyond their experiences, and instilling in students a love of learning and a desire to continue their education to a bachelor’s or higher degree.

    Professor Flath previously received the award in 2008 and 2010.  An Indiana native, she received a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Biology in 1984 from St. Mary’s College at Notre Dame University and a Ph.D. in Pathology and Laboratory Medicine in 1991 from the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, SC. 

    Dr. Flath taught biology in South Carolina colleges for several years before joining Ashland Community and Technical College in 1994 as an Assistant Professor in Biology.  She became an Associate Professor in Biology in 1998 and a full Professor in Anatomy & Physiology in 2004.

    “I am honored and humbled to receive the 2017 Gussler Family Math & Science Endowed Chair Award,” Flath said.  “The Gussler's generosity and support of Math & Science faculty is extraordinary; and to be rewarded for doing what I love, teaching and learning together with my students, is amazing.”