Under the harsh fluorescent lights of an Shippensburg University classroom, a professor shares what it means to connect students to literature.
Mary Libertin, an English professor at SU since 1984, has devoted most of her life to educating others and preserving the art of literature.
“People really do like something deep and meaningful. As a kid, I wanted to say something to people. Through literature, there is something important to say and to learn about others,” Libertin said.
Her love for literature prompted her career path.
She received her doctorate at the University of Tulsa, where she wrote her dissertation on James Joyce and the logic of Charles Peirce.
Libertin has spent her life trying to teach students and help them grow.
“When I started teaching, I was scared to death,” Libertin said, “But I would focus on each individual person and how they are important.”
This has been her way of connecting with students, especially those in need, for many years. Libertin said she also knows how hard her students fight to juggle work and school. “Though most people don’t give them credit, [students] work harder at college than at a full-time job,” Libertin said.
Libertin’s passion for SU and its students will not end with her retirement.
“There are down-to-earth people here at Ship,” Libertin said, “Our students have their heads and hearts together. They will improve the world for all of us.”
The Slate welcomes thoughtful discussion on all of our stories, but please keep comments civil and on-topic. Read our full guidelines here.