Campus Celebrates a Career Serving Students
The University honored Karen L. Pennington who – after more than two decades at Montclair State – retired as vice president for Student Development and Campus Life and on her last day was honored with a send-off parade across campus.
Marching behind decorated golf carts and police vehicles on March 31, students and colleagues bid a fond farewell to Pennington, who served and shaped the lives of countless Red Hawks.
The parade began and ended at the Student Center, where Pennington’s vision and concern for the health, safety and well-being of all students created one of the most inclusive campuses in the country. Since joining Montclair State in 1998, she has been an integral part of the University’s growth, including the expansion of student housing and recreational facilities.
Her legacy is also being honored with contributions to Rocky’s Closet, which provides professional attire to students in need so that they can be dressed appropriately for job interviews and professional networking events.
Dawn Meza Soufleris, formerly a vice president at La Salle University, joined Montclair State on April 5 as the new vice president for Student Development and Campus Life. The vice president oversees 22 departments with nearly 300 employees and some 700 student workers.