First woman department chair

In 1990, Dr. Elizabeth Cummins was named chair of Missouri S&T’s English department. She joined S&T as an instructor in 1967 after teaching five years at the University of Missouri-Columbia.

She taught classes on literature, science fiction and technical writing. Beyond her teaching and scholarly accomplishments, including three Faculty Excellence Awards, Cummins was one of the driving forces in the university’s establishment of a writing center and she co-directed, with Dr. Catherine Riordan, an award-winning “Women at Work” series.

Cummins was the first recipient of the university’s Woman of the Year Award in 1997 and in 2017, the Dr. Elizabeth Cummins Women’s Advocate Award was established. It goes to an S&T employee, regardless of gender or job title, who demonstrates commitment to women on campus through mentorship and advocacy.

Share This Story

Spark a Memory?

Share your story! Fill out the form below to share your fondest memory or anecdote of S&T. If you'd prefer not typing, you can also share by phone at 833-646-3715 (833-Miner150).

One active alumnus

One active alumnus

James E. “Jim” Bertelsmeyer, a 1966 chemical engineering graduate and the retired founder, chair and chief executive officer of Heritage…

The house that Michael Lancey built

The house that Michael Lancey built

The original Yankee Stadium, completed in 1923,  came to be known as “The House That Ruth Built,” in recognition of…

Will Annunziata and Rebecka Connor

Will Annunziata and Rebecka Connor

Will Annunziata met Rebecka Connor in January 2016 while he was home on Christmas break from his first semester at…

Chloe Howenstein-Heskin and Shayne Heskin

Chloe Howenstein-Heskin and Shayne Heskin

Chloe Howenstein-Heskin and Shayne Heskin met during the spring semester of their freshman year in 2011. The two were part…

Rosalie (Larson) and Stan Hadley

Rosalie (Larson) and Stan Hadley

Rosalie (Larson) and Stan Hadley met one Friday in September 1977 in TJ Hall. Rosalie’s roommate was a lab partner…

Suzanna Long: An ‘80s alumna remembers

Suzanna Long: An ‘80s alumna remembers

Engineering management Chair Suzanna Long, who holds four degrees from the university...