Celebrating Herkimer College’s 2024 Torchbearers
At a recent ceremony on October 18, 2024, Herkimer College paused to honor four remarkable retired faculty members with the prestigious Torchbearer Awards. Held every five years, these awards shine a light on individuals whose contributions have left a lasting mark on the college’s foundation, operations, and, most importantly, its students. Dubbed “Torchbearers,” these individuals have gone above and beyond to make Herkimer College what it is today—an institution of passion, commitment, and impact.
As Officer-in-Charge Nicholas Laino eloquently put it, “The first Torchbearer plaques were unveiled here on this wall, and since then, every five years, the Board of Trustees has selected an exceptional group for this esteemed and lasting recognition.” The 2024 ceremony brought together faculty, friends, family, and alumni to celebrate four individuals who truly epitomize the Torchbearer spirit.
Meet the 2024 Torchbearers
Dr. Faye Eichholzer
Starting her journey with Herkimer in 1978 as an English instructor, Dr. Faye Eichholzer quickly became a pillar of the Humanities department. Promoted to professor in 1991, she also took on roles as interim dean and chair of the Humanities/Social Science division. But beyond titles, Dr. Eichholzer had a passion for creating supportive spaces: she launched the campus childcare center, developed the “Writing Across the Curriculum” initiative, and founded NETWORK, a group specifically aimed at helping returning adult students. Her accolades include the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching in 1985 and a Teaching on the Net Award in 2001, and her legacy lives on in every student who found their footing under her mentorship.
Dr. Anne Greco
Honored posthumously, Dr. Anne Greco began teaching English in 1968 and rose to professor in 1984. Known for her dedication to the Humanities program, she created avenues for student expression, serving as advisor to the college newspaper and literary magazine, establishing a writing lab, and shaping the Honor’s Program. Her influence was recognized early on with a SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching in 1978. Her contributions are imprinted on the college’s ethos of creativity and expression, inspiring countless students to explore their own voices.
Raymond Lenarcic
One of Herkimer’s founding faculty members, Ray Lenarcic arrived in 1967 and brought with him a spirit of advocacy that would span his entire career. Known for his deep commitment to community service and activism, Ray focused on issues like veterans’ rights and Native American advocacy, instilling the value of service in every student he taught. His efforts reached beyond the classroom through initiatives like the Herkimer County Veterans Memorial Park, the Gram Lorraine Children’s Christmas Program, and the Herkimer County Hunger Coalition. Awarded the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching in 1980, Ray’s influence on both Herkimer and the broader community is immeasurable.
William Pelz
With a tenure spanning five decades, Bill Pelz holds the honor of Herkimer College’s longest-serving faculty member. Beginning in 1968 as a psychology instructor, he became a trailblazer in online education, helping to create and establish Herkimer’s Internet Academy—a move that earned him invitations to advise universities around the globe, from Chile to South Africa. Bill’s excellence was recognized with two SUNY Chancellor’s Awards, one for teaching in 1994 and another for scholarship and creative activities in 2006. Even after his retirement in 2018, Bill continued to serve part-time, ensuring his impact on Herkimer’s future.
A Legacy of Dedication
During the ceremony, Board of Trustees Chairman Michael Stalteri reflected on the impact of the 2024 Torchbearers, saying, “The influence of these four educators extends far beyond their classrooms. They have been steadfast role models for their students, as well as their peers and colleagues here at Herkimer College, across the SUNY system, and beyond. Their contributions are woven into the fabric of this institution and have touched the lives of many, shaping futures and fostering growth.”
Torchbearers are the heart of Herkimer College’s story. They’re the pioneers, the change-makers, and the role models who make our community proud. Their legacies will continue to light the path for future generations, reminding us all that dedication, compassion, and commitment are the greatest tools we have to make a difference.
