DUBOIS – Wildlife Technology Professor Charles Schaadt has been named the DuBois Education Foundation Educator of the Year. Each year the DEF presents the award to a Penn State DuBois faculty member who has made a difference in the lives of students.
During the award presentation, DEF President Ed Nasuti said, “Dr. Schaadt was nominated by his students who spoke to his outstanding enthusiasm for wildlife and the environment, and his exceptional ability to involve students in discussions and field activities.”
One of the students who nominated Schaadt, Melinda Marconi, stated, “Dr. Schaadt is always ready to start his class with attention grabbing information, be it a related comic, current news article, or other happenings in the world. Students are always encouraged to ask questions and comment on the topics covered.” Marconi also explained the individual impact Schaadt has had on her life. “He has inspired me personally to achieve my goals and explore ones I’d never considered, and I know others have benefitted from his advice as well.”
“This really means so much,” Schaadt said upon receiving the award. “Since this award comes directly from the students it is especially appreciated and I am truly honored they took the initiative and the time and effort to make it possible. I thank them all.”
In addition to teaching, Schaadt also conducts research on the reintroduction of ospreys, a fish eating bird of prey, into their natural environment. He also actively researches eagles, hawks and migratory songbirds. He organizes Earth Day activities on campus, and is the advisor for the campus Eco Club.