John S. Penn ‘78
“The impact of my Sewanee science education on my career is nothing short of profound. In fact, I would likely not have entered the field of biomedical research if it were not for my wonderful experiences as a Biology major at Sewanee. When I arrived at Sewanee, I already harbored a strong fondness for science, and for biomedical science in particular, but my mind remained open to other disciplines. Sewanee, after all, provided a broad range of excellent choices. However, my interest in biological research was cemented to the exclusion of all alternatives in the first semester of my freshman year by the Sewanee Biology faculty. I remember being somewhat amused initially by their displays of unrestrained delight in scientific exploration. Ultimately, I found their attitudes absolutely contagious, and I know that I’m not the only student in my class who became infected. The Biology faculty fascinated my classmates and I with animated and entertaining lectures, but their teaching genius was in the flawless logic with which they drove the instruction home. I benefited from a group of amazing professors: Harry Yeatman, Edward McCrady, Malcolm Owen, Charles Foreman, George Ramseur. Each had his own distinct style and, as a teacher myself, I now recognize that each was an absolutely extraordinary instructor. These gentlemen introduced me to the fund of knowledge that would become the basis of my career. But, it was during these early formative years that I began also to develop my understanding of the spirit and art of science. These lessons came naturally through my interaction with Sewanee professors and classmates in that completely unique environment that only Sewanee can offer. I believe it was, in large part, the perfect combination of people and place that bound me to a career in science, and the wonderful enthusiasm with which I was taught continues to permeate my research program today.”
