During Appalachia Day Homecoming on October 7, Alice Lloyd College recognized a former professor, Dr. Samuel K. Gilmore, for his contributions to ALC and the education of his students. Many former students gathered near the main stage in the heart of campus to help honor Dr. Gilmore.
ALC President Jim Stepp presented a resolution from the Board of Trustees to Dr. Gilmore to recognize his impact on Alice Lloyd College and his service and leadership in the fields of science and higher education.
Joining the College’s Science Department in 1983, Dr. Gilmore served as a Professor of Biology until 2002 and again briefly in 2009. He also served as a Chairman of the Natural Science and Mathematics Division for seven years.
Dr. Gilmore was highly regarded as an educator by administrators, colleagues, and students alike. His students appreciated his demanding coursework that better prepared them for graduate and professional programs. Many of our graduates returned to seek him out during Appalachia Day to share their accomplishments in their graduate and professional programs and to thank him for “being tough on them.”
Dr. Gilmore made integral contributions to the College outside of the classroom. He once chaired our Institutional Self-Study, providing leadership and impetus to this important process. He also served on the Academic Affairs Committee, the Research, Evaluation, and Planning (REP) Committee, and the Teacher Education Committee during his tenure at the College.
“Sam served ALC extremely well and is highly respected for his contributions to the high academic quality of our school. Many of his former students who now serve throughout our region credit him for his exceptional guidance in preparing them for their careers. We are grateful to Sam for his instrumental role in helping develop leaders for Appalachia,” said President Jim Stepp.
Dr. Gilmore exemplified the spirit of the Purpose Road Philosophy. He crafted his training in biology and theology and his experience in teaching and ministry in a way that each discipline be seen as part of a large whole in helping students develop as reflective, critical-thinking persons.
Dr. Gilmore served the community of Pippa Passes, KY, not only as an educator, leader, and researcher but also as a dedicated family man with a background in theology. Many members of the College Community acknowledged him as a trusted counselor, advisor, and friend.
