Howard College Professor Awarded Professor Emeritus

Donna Rutledge, former Instructor and Program Director for the Licensed Vocational Nursing Program at Howard College, was recently designated as Professor Emeritus and will be formally recognized during commencement ceremonies on May 17th.

“During her years of service, Donna Rutledge has set the example of excellence for our vocational nursing students,” said Dr. Cheryl T. Sparks, President. “We are so proud to be able to recognize her dedication and commitment to our institution, our students, and our community.”

Before a person can be designated as Professor Emeritus, they must complete 20 years of service to the college district, be retired from the college district, and be nominated by three faculty members.

The college President makes the final selections for consideration by the Board of Trustees.

Rutledge spent thirty-two years with Howard College after retiring in 2012. She served as an instructor for the San Angelo campus of Howard College since July of 1980.

Throughout her tenure with the college, Rutledge has dedicated her time, knowledge, and energy to the betterment of the college and the evolution of the San Angelo campus.  

 “Donna led the long-term development of our nursing program here on the San Angelo campus,” said Sparks. “She is highly respected throughout the medical community which only added credibility to our program.”

The San Angelo campus has grown in many ways throughout Rutledge’s tenure and she has been an integral part of that growth. Her sincere interest and deliberate actions in regard to the welfare of the students, college, and medical community have earned her the respect of all concerned.

As Professor Emeritus, Rutledge will lead the faculty in the commencement ceremony and will be awarded with a certificate. Her picture will be placed in the Professor Emeritus Hall of Honor.

Howard College San Angelo commencement ceremony will be held Saturday, May 17th at 10:00 am in the ASU Junell Center / Stephens Arena.

For more information on Howard College, visit our website atwww.howardcollege.edu