The Academy of Culinary Arts has released its Dean’s Recognition List for Academic Excellence for the Spring 2012 semester. Students are named to the list when they achieve a GPA of 3.25 or higher.

The accreditation evaluation takes many months of work and is a comprehensive, multistep process that involves an in-depth qualitative and quantitative examination of all the programs within the college.

With Pennsylvania’s new texting-while-driving law in effect and PennDOT's “Just Drive, PA" campaign underway, the IUP Regional Highway Safety Project has partnered with PennDOT, local law enforcement, AAA, and several safety organizations to raise public awareness of the need to eliminate distractions while driving.

Christina Bryner, a senior at Blairsville High School, has received a $20,000 scholarship from the Michael and Susan Dell Foundation to support education-related expenses in pursuit of a bachelor’s degree at IUP. Bryner has been a four-year participant in the IUP Upward Bound Math and Science program.

In his new role, William Speidel is responsible for directing a comprehensive fundraising program, overseeing the Office of Alumni Relations and Advancement Services area, and serving as liaison to the Foundation for IUP.

Criminology graduate Patrick Allen Lee '12 was awarded the first Stephen Mayhle '02 Memorial Scholarship at the department's graduation ceremony during Commencement, May 12.

A special-use learning area at IUP Punxsutawney has been named in honor of the late Ralph F. Roberts, Punxsutawney businessman and IUP trustee.

Commencement 2012 takes place on Saturday, May 12, in two ceremonies at the Kovalchick Convention and Athletic Complex. Clyde McGeary '54 will deliver the keynote address, and students Christopher Anthony and Stephanie Stahl will present remarks.

Eight faculty have been recognized by the Center for Teaching Excellence for innovative work in linking courses, creating exemplary online courses, redesigning to enhance interaction, integrating service learning, and more.