UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Bill Goffe, teaching professor of economics in the College of the Liberal Arts, has received the 2025 McKay Donkin Award.
Established in 1969 in honor of the late McKay Donkin, who served as vice president and treasurer of the University from 1957 to 1968, the award is presented to a full-time member of the faculty or staff or to a retiree who has contributed most to the “economic, physical, mental or social welfare of the faculty” of the University. The contribution should be for duties or services above and beyond the recipient’s regularly assigned duties.
Nominators said Goffe spearheads numerous initiatives that elevate the well-being and sense of community among faculty across Penn State. They lauded his exceptional efforts to improve teaching, advocate for faculty inclusion and foster professional development.
One such effort is the College of Liberal Arts (CLA) Teaching Group, which Goffe co-leads. Nominators said the group, which has grown to more than 200 members across the University, brings a sense of belonging and community to educators. Typical sessions include about 20 members.
“The group focuses on evidence-based teaching practices and provides an invaluable space for faculty to share strategies, exchange ideas and improve teaching effectiveness,” a nominator said. “For many, including myself, the group has become a cornerstone of professional growth, with members frequently reporting the successful implementation of practices they learned through this forum.”
Goffe later created the Innovative Teaching at Penn State lunch series, which nominators called “a cornerstone of programming offered by the Schreyer Institute for Teaching Excellence.” The initiative spotlights and promotes innovative teaching practices.
Nominators also cited Goffe’s effective teaching group, which he created under the Penn State Provost Endorsement Program titled "Cognitive Science Principles for More Effective College Teaching" program. Nominators said the group gives faculty the tools they need to increase effective teaching while further engaging students.
“This group exemplifies the intersection of Bill’s expertise in pedagogy and his commitment to providing professional development opportunities for faculty,” a nominator said.
Nominators said Goffe has long had an impact at improving teaching at Penn State. In 2017, he saw a need to help increase faculty representation on subcommittees in University governance. Partnering with the Center for Excellence in Science Education, he organized a meeting with University leaders to advocate for meaningful faculty involvement. That sparked meaningful change, nominators said, and gave educators greater control in shaping institutional priorities.
“Goffe’s contributions to the economic, physical, mental and social welfare of Penn State’s faculty are unparalleled,” a nominator said. “Through his innovative initiatives, tireless advocacy, and transformative leadership, he has fostered a stronger, more connected and more empowered faculty community.”