Peter Schmitthenner honored with emeritus status
Peter Schmitthenner, associate professor of religion and culture in the College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences, has been conferred the title of professor emeritus by the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors.
The emeritus title may be conferred on retired faculty members who are specially recommended to the board by Virginia Tech President Tim Sands in recognition of exemplary service to the university. Nominated individuals who are approved by the board receive a copy of the resolution and a certificate of appreciation.
A member of the Virginia Tech community for more than 30 years, Schmitthenner made significant contributions to academic scholarship on the history of South India. He served the community of scholars with expertise on India and South Asia through his involvement in organizations, such as the American Institute for Indian Studies, the Council of International Educational Exchange, Project South Asia, and the South Atlantic States Association for Asian and African Studies.
Schmitthenner fostered student engagement with international issues by serving on the campus Fulbright Screening Committee, coordinating the Asian area studies minor, and serving as faculty advisor for two groups - the Association for India’s Development Blacksburg chapter and the Asian American Student Union. In the classroom, he taught a variety of undergraduate courses in religion, culture, and history, including the Life and Legacy of Gandhi, the History of India, and Food in Asian History.
Throughout his career, Schmitthenner served as a mentor, advising many students on their doctoral dissertations in the Alliance for Social, Political, Ethical, and Cultural Thought program and helping them develop successful careers. He was passionate about providing students with experiential learning experiences, alternative community learning experiences, and study abroad opportunities.
Schmitthenner received his bachelor’s degree from Clark University. He received his master’s degree and Ph.D from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Written by Anja Hemesath, a senior and a student writer for Virginia Tech Communications and Marketing
