VINCENNES, Ind. – Vincennes University (VU) has recognized five distinguished faculty with inaugural Ro and Shorty Whittington Professorships. The endowed faculty positions are the first in VU history and the professorships will help the college stay competitive in attracting and keeping the best faculty.
The professorships were created in April with a historic gift of $750,000 from Ro and Shorty Whittington of Columbus, Indiana. Their generous donation will bolster VU’s expertise in agriculture innovation and support the University’s partnerships with industry leaders such as John Deere and Columbus-based Cummins.
Vincennes University Provost Dr. Laura Treanor said, “Professorships, such as these, are a tremendous asset in VU’s ability to maintain academic excellence. Ro and Shorty Whittington’s tremendous support also plays a vital role in ensuring the long-term success of our students.”
VU President Dr. Chuck Johnson added, “Vincennes University proudly boasts a faculty of exceptional talent and a laser-like focus on helping students learn. We commend all five of our inaugural Ro and Shorty Whittington Professors for what they do for our students. Our gratitude goes to Ro and Shorty Whittington for their belief in the VU mission and their amazing contribution to its future.”
The first individuals appointed to Ro and Shorty Whittington Professorships are the following VU faculty members:
- Larry Bland, Ro and Shorty Whittington Professor/Instructor of Diesel Technology (John Deere)
- Chad Hill, Ro and Shorty Whittington Professor/Instructor of Diesel Technology (John Deere)
- Jeramy Smith, Ro and Shorty Whittington Professor/Instructor of Diesel Technology (Cummins)
- Jennifer Steffy, Ro and Shorty Whittington Professor, Assistant Professor of Agribusiness, and Chair of Agribusiness and Horticulture
- Larry Stremming, Ro and Shorty Whittington Professor, Instructor of Diesel Technology, and Program Director (John Deere and Cummins)
