Black River Technical College’s (BRTC) Dean of General Education Donna Statler has retired after 38 years of service. Before accepting the role of dean in 2017, Statler served in different positions throughout the college like GED Instructor, Math Instructor, and Math Division Chair.
To thank her for her years of service, BRTC held a retirement reception on the Pocahontas campus. Around 60 guests made up of faculty, staff, family, and friends came to celebrate. Dr. Martin Eggensperger, BRTC President, and Dr. Brad Baine, Vice President of Academic Affairs, welcomed and thanked everyone for attending before sharing stories of Statler’s kindness.
Baine spoke about the impact Statler had on Academic Affairs, saying she was “the glue that held us all together.” Baine also read statements from former students, faculty, and staff about their time with Statler and how thankful they are for her.
“She was hands-down the best math teacher I ever had,” a former student said. “She was always so kind and you could tell she cared about our success.”
Also speaking about their time with Statler was Communication and Theatre Instructor Kelly Grooms and Automotive Collision Instructor Butch Dail. After stories were shared, Baine presented Statler with a plaque and a bench to thank her for her time and dedication to BRTC.
BRTC’s general education courses are considered basic, general education core, and university core classes. They include English, math, science, and social science classes. The Associate of Arts and Associate of General Studies provide flexibility and transfer to all Arkansas public 4-year universities.
For more information about BRTC’s General Education classes visit https://blackrivertech.edu/college-coursework/academic-units/general_education/.