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Daniel R. Perkins is First Stevens-Bristow Distinguished Professor: Endowed PSU Professorship Supports Faculty Who “Educate the Educators”

Daniel R. Perkins, professor of music and director of choral activities, has been named the first Stevens-Bristow Distinguished Professor at Plymouth State University.

Alumni Wallace R. and Meredith Bristow Stevens, class of 1962, established the University’s first endowed professorship in May to celebrate and recognize extraordinary faculty who “Educate the Educators.”

Dan Perkins is a perfect match to Wally and Meredith’s vision,” said President Sara Jayne Steen in announcing the inaugural selection. “In selecting him, the committee acknowledged his excellence and his creativity in providing opportunities for students who will themselves be leaders in working with the next generation of students.”

The Stevens-Bristow Distinguished Professor must have a record of excellence in teaching, advising, or mentoring; evidence of scholarly activity or creativity that is recognized nationally or internationally; and exhibit outstanding contributions to the profession, University, or state.

“I am extremely proud of our numerous alums who are teaching, literally throughout the world, with the passion and intensity they observed and felt during their time in the Department of Music, Theatre, and Dance,” Perkins said. “PSU has provided an environment in which our students and I have the freedom to explore, travel, and work internationally and collaborate with excellent colleagues. It is a great honor to be the recipient of an award that supports this work.”

According to Wallace Stevens, both he and his wife, Meredith Bristow Stevens, are proud to be associated with the University and felt the creation of a named professorship was a perfect way to increase their involvement.

“I love the idea that the professorship touches the lives of professors who are educating educators,” said Bristow Stevens. “If this allows a professor the opportunity to explore a new idea, then everyone ultimately benefits. By underwriting this professorship, we can provide an experience that the recipient might not otherwise have had.”

Stevens currently serves as chair of the Plymouth State University President’s Council, a group dedicated to raising funds for endowments and developing University resources that will advance the mission and vision of PSU. [For more on Wallace and Meredith Bristow Stevens, see the inside back cover.]

Persons interested in receiving information regarding PSU’s endowed professors program and learning how they can honor extraordinary faculty members can contact Angela Matthews, director of development at (603) 535-2212 or amatthews@plymouth.edu.