East Penn Bank CEO Brent Peters '68 and his Muhlenberg alumni professional staff celebrate a new partnership with Muhlenberg College. East Penn Bank will support two community outreach initiatives – the Hamilton Street Writing Academy and the Environmental Science Summer Camp – in 2003-2004. “We were happy to do this for Muhlenberg,” says Brent. Pictured L-R Olin Webb ’63. Patricia Stumpp ’86, Deborah Price ’83, Brent L. Peters ’68, Guy Aldrich ’67, and Deb Kipp. Rebecca Carnrike '01 is not pictured.

Professor emeritus pledges
toward lab renovations

Russell Smart, emeritus professor of chemistry, has pledged $50,000 for the renovation of Muhlenberg’s chemistry labs. The renovations, which began in May, were complete in time for the fall semester.

“Russell Smart devoted his entire professional life to Muhlenberg as a talented chemistry professor,” says President Helm. “This wonderful gift is testimony to his continuing belief in the College’s bright future.’

The renovated space includes the lab Smart used during his tenure as chair of Muhlenberg’s chemistry department. Originally configured as a typical organic synthesis facility, the lab retains part of Smart’s original workspace, with improved air conditioning and controlled ventilation. The new facility has a unique combination including a modern organic synthesis laboratory and one of the best laser laboratories found in small liberal arts schools.

“For 40 years, Dr. Smart worked tirelessly to maintain the integrity of the curriculum and to support undergraduate research,” says Don Shive, Ph.D., head of the chemistry department. “Our graduates continue to express their appreciation for Dr. Smart and his late wife, Marge. It is a pleasure to honor the Smarts by dedicating his original research space to them.”

Familiar face, new place

President Helm has appointed Ken Butler to the position of executive assistant. Butler began his duties in the president’s office in August.

For the past 10 years, Butler served as administrative coordinator for the department of theatre and dance, supervising box office and ticket operations. Butler served as musical director and conductor for 16 departmental productions, and provided orchestrations for the 1987 world premiere of the outdoor musical drama “Eden on the River.”

Butler earned his bachelor of music degree from Union University in Jackson, Tenn.