Phalanx, the student honor society of Rensselaer, has announced that Eddie Ade Knowles, professor of practice, arts, has been selected as this year’s recipient of the David M. Darrin ‘40 Counseling Award.
This award was established by David M. Darrin ’40 in order to recognize a faculty member who has made an unusual or exceptional contribution in the counseling of undergraduate students, generously sharing time and talents with them, and demonstrating special concern for their welfare in and out of the classroom. The selection of the award recipient is made by the Phalanx Honor Society, Rensselaer’s senior leadership honorary society, based on nominations received from an open solicitation to the campus during the past school year. The Darrin Award will be presented to Knowles at Commencement on May 19.
According to Phalanx, Knowles has impacted many students, whether in his role as a professor, adviser, or friend. To fully appreciate his impact on Rensselaer students, Phalanx shared quotes from some of his nominators:
“Dr. Eddie Knowles gives everything he can for his students and the school,” wrote one nominator. “He is honestly the most compassionate professor I had in my entire college career. Dr. Knowles not only made class interesting, but beyond enjoyable. He developed personal connections with all of his students and encouraged them to do the same among each other. If his students needed any help with coursework, whether it was for his class or others, he would offer his time and knowledge to help them succeed. Outside of coursework, he would constantly visit and encourage events held by students through clubs or other organizations.”
“Ade has contributed an endless amount of change and effort to RPI,” said another nominator. “I know that he has, and continues to have, a lasting impact on my life. He is truly the most extraordinary man that I have ever had the pleasure of knowing, and without him, my RPI experience would have never been the same. It may have even been very short-lived. He is a light that we should cherish and be thankful to have associated with our institution”
“Ade is really dedicated to student interests—he regularly takes time outside of office hours to help students with both classwork and their life in general,” said another. “As a more experienced faculty member, he’s often approached by students for history lessons about RPI, which he is always glad to share. He makes a point of attending student life events such as performances and sporting events, staying active and involved with the students on campus.”