Two longtime members of SUNY Fredonia’s thriving fine and performing arts community, Tom Loughlin and James Piorkowski, were among just 24 faculty members throughout the 64-campus SUNY system to be recently appointed to the “distinguished” ranks by the State University of New York Board of Trustees.
These honors represent the highest system tribute conferred upon SUNY instructional faculty and are awarded to celebrate their extraordinary achievements as teachers, scholars and mentors, said SUNY Chancellor Nancy L. Zimpher.
Loughlin, chair of the Department of Theatre and Dance, was promoted to Distinguished Teaching Professor, an honor that recognizes mastery of teaching, outstanding service to students and commitment to intellectual growth, scholarship and professional development, along with adherence to rigorous academic standards. A member of the faculty since 1988, Loughlin specializes in acting and directing.
Loughlin has directed several multimedia productions and helped form and lead the Media Arts program. He served as chair of the Department of Visual Arts and New Media for three years and was interim dean of the College of Arts and Humanities in 2007. Loughlin is the first member of SUNY Fredonia’s theatre and dance department to achieve Distinguished Teaching Professor status.
Loughlin earned his master’s degree in Fine Arts at the University of Nebraska.
Piorkowski, a multi-faceted musician who performs as a soloist and actively composes, arranges and records, was named Distinguished Professor, an honor that acknowledges significant contributions through artistic performance or achievement in the fine and performing arts or research literature. Candidates must also achieve national or international prominence and a distinguished reputation within a chosen field.
Passionate about chamber music, Piorkowski has directed the Guitar Studies program at the School of Music since 1983. He has performed in Europe, Asia, South and North America, and the Caribbean as a member of the world renowned Buffalo Guitar Quartet. His catalogue includes music written for guitar and flute, guitar and cello, guitar and voice, guitar and choir, and guitar and symphony orchestra.
His previous honors include the President’s Award for Excellence in Teaching, being named to present the Robert W. Kasling Memorial Lecture, and receiving the William T. Hagan Young Scholar/Artist Award. Piorkowski has received the ASCAPLUS Award, a citation issued by the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers, for 10 consecutive years. He earned his master’s degree in Music at SUNY Fredonia.
