Penn College

Distinguished alumnus honored at summer commencement

James E. Cunningham received congratulations from Penn College President Davie Jane Gilmour for his Distinguished Alumni Award. Credit: Penn StateCreative Commons

Pennsylvania College of Technology presented its Distinguished Alumni Award to James E. Cunningham, of Montoursville, during summer 2014 commencement ceremonies held Aug. 9 at the Community Arts Center, Williamsport.The Distinguished Alumni Award is given to those who have made significant contributions in their fields, demonstrated the importance of their Penn College education, participated in leadership roles within the community, and demonstrated a commitment to the college and community relations.Cunningham graduated from Penn College’s immediate predecessor, Williamsport Area Community College, in 1973 with an Associate of Applied Science degree in computer science. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in technology management from Penn College.He was employed at the college from 1988 until his retirement in 2011. He last served as vice president for information technology. His previous roles included chief technology officer, associate dean for information technology, director of computer services, coordinator and director of academic computing, and programmer/analyst.Cunningham and his siblings established the Cunningham Family Scholarship at the college, and he is a member of the college’s 1914 Society and Pillar Society. He is a member of the Penn College Foundation Board of Directors and a past member of the boards of directors for Hope Enterprises, Lycoming County United Way and the Lycoming County Health Improvement Coalition. He is a founding member of the Williamsport Chess Club and a graduate of Leadership Lycoming.As an alumnus, Cunningham shares his professional experiences with college students. Most recently, he participated in the 50th anniversary celebration for the information technology program.“Jim is certainly a dedicated alumnus and very deserving of this recognition, given his long history with Penn College and Williamsport Area Community College,” said Barry R. Stiger, vice president for institutional advancement. “His commitment to the college is evidenced by the establishment and continued support of the Cunningham Family Scholarship. Even in retirement, Jim remains actively involved with the Penn College Foundation Board of Directors, and other college committees and activities.”For more about Penn College, which is marking 100 years as an educational institution of national reputation throughout 2014, visit www.pct.edu, email admissions@pct.edu or call toll-free 800-367-9222.

Last Updated August 11, 2014