DUBOIS – Penn State DuBois Professor of English Richard Kopley has been recognized for 25 years of service with the campus. He was awarded a plaque and a chair, according to university tradition.
Kopley began teaching at Penn State DuBois in 1983, after holding a position Illinois State University.
Kopley graduated from New Rochelle High School in New York, where he now returns each year to chair a panel of literary experts who share their knowledge with the high school students.
He went on to study English at Brandeis University in Massachusetts. He earned his masters in English at the Teachers College at Columbia University, and eventually a Ph.D. from the State University New York at Buffalo where he also taught while completing his degree.
In addition to teaching, research and writing have been large parts of Kopley’s career. He has authored two books on his literary research. The latest, due out this month, delves into the structure, sources and autobiographical significance of Edgar Alan Poe’s Dupin Mysteries.
During the recognition ceremony, Chancellor Anita McDonald spoke about Kopley’s dedication and willingness to reach outside of his expected duties for the good of the university. “Richard served as Director of Academic Affairs at Penn State DuBois Worthington Scranton and as English Disciplinary Administrator for the Penn State campuses,” she recalled. “But we’ve always wanted Richard here teaching.”
“I’m very indebted to this campus and always will be,” said Kopley. “I owe most of my life’s research and my ability to do that research to teaching at Penn State DuBois. I love the teaching. I love the research. I’ve also enjoyed the service,” he added.
Kopley lives in State College with his wife Amy, who is a Professor of Art History at Lycoming College in Williamsport. They have two children, Emily and Gabe.
