Alumni Spotlight:
Gwynn Skelton Pealer ’68
Major: Biology
Hometown: Ocala, Florida
Current Job: Retired teacher
What I Do Now: I retired after a wonderful career of teaching eighth-grade science and AP biology.
How the Hartwick Experience Impacted My Professional Life: I had such a wonderful, broad range of science courses, which gave me a good career foundation and what I continue to be interested in today! I also met my husband, Casius “Cash” Pealer ’64. My father wanted me to finish college before I got married, so I graduated on June 5th and got married on June 15th!
Challenges in the Field: The biggest challenge was figuring out new ways to teach as technology came in. I felt like I was always playing catch-up. Did I understand the tech before the students did? And that’s still the case today. It’s always changing.
My Favorite Aspect of My Career: I had so much fun with my students. When I retired, I didn’t realize how important it was for me to be around young people. There was no laughter, no youth in my life. It’s like I woke up one morning and I was surrounded by old people!
My Advice for Current Students: Get involved in leadership opportunities wherever you find them. Travel as often as you can. Go to places you don’t think of, physically and mentally. Take chances on things you didn’t think you could do.
