
“The Leonhard Center has been a part of my life for a while,” said Zappe, who is a research professor and has served as the director of assessment and instructional support for the center since 2007. William earned his undergraduate degree in electrical engineering from Penn State in 1936. It was endowed in 1990 by William and Wyllis Leonhard. The center also helps accelerate the development and dissemination of novel approaches to address challenges faced by undergraduates, graduates, staff and faculty in engineering. The Leonhard Center provides the resources and support for consistent assessment, improvement of engineering education and implementation of innovative teaching at Penn State. Zappe will bring unique value to the college and the University in her new roles as an assistant dean and as the director of the Leonhard Center.” “A well-respected national expert in developing and accessing innovative approaches to instruction in engineering, Dr.
LEONHARD CENTER PROFESSIONAL
Zappe, an educational psychologist by training, has significant experience in engineering education and deeply understands both the challenges and advantages of pursuing and applying technical and professional skills to make an impact,” said Justin Schwartz, Harold and Inge Marcus Dean in the College of Engineering. Now, 17 years later, she has been named the center’s next director, as well as assistant dean for teaching and learning in the College of Engineering. Sarah Zappe first stepped foot into the Penn State Leonhard Center for the Enhancement of Engineering Education as a graduate student pursuing a doctorate in educational psychology.
