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Pennsylvania Highlands Community College has promoted two faculty members and awarded tenure to another two, recognizing their dedication to teaching excellence, advising, professional development, and service to both the college and the wider community.

Their work with students is exemplary and serves as an inspiration to students and colleagues alike. The new status of each faculty member will become effective in July 2024.

Eligible faculty members undergo a rigorous application and review process that assesses their effectiveness in full-time teaching/advising and service to Penn Highlands, the community, and professional development.

Faculty earning advancement in rank:

• Gregory Paonessa, from Instructor to Assistant Professor, Computer Technology. Mr. Paonessa began his career with Pennsylvania Highlands in August of 2019. Prior to that, he worked as a software engineer. He teaches courses in computer programming, software development, and project management. Mr. Paonessa has a B.S. in Computer Science from the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown.
• Sherri Slavick, from Associate Professor to Professor, Physical Sciences. Ms. Slavick began her career with Pennsylvania Highlands in January of 2012. Prior to that, she was employed as a teacher and instructional designer. She teaches courses in Physics, Astronomy, and Education. Ms. Slavick has a M.S. in Science Education from Lebanon Valley College, and a B.S. in Secondary Education from the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown.

Faculty earning tenure:

• Laura Gaunt, Assistant Professor, Healthcare Professions. Ms. Gaunt began her full-time career with Pennsylvania Highlands in August of 2019. Prior to that, she worked as a staff nurse for 18 years and in nursing administration for 2 years. She teaches courses in Health Sciences. Ms. Gaunt is a graduate of the Conemaugh School of Nursing program and has a B.S. in Nursing from the University of Pittsburgh.
• Wayde Simington, Assistant Professor, Mathematics. Mr. Simington began his full-time career with Pennsylvania Highlands in January of 2019. Prior to that, he was an adjunct instructor for the College. He teaches courses in Mathematics. Mr. Simington has a B.S. in Applied Mathematics, a B.S. in Secondary Education Mathematics from the University of Pittsburgh, and an M.S. in Mathematics from Emporia State University.

Pennsylvania Highlands Community College has been serving the region since 1994 and is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.