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Dr. Douglas Skopp Appointed College Historian at SUNY Plattsburgh


PLATTSBURGH, NY __ When someone has a question concerning the history of the State University of New York College at Plattsburgh, the "go-to" man is Dr. Douglas Skopp. He's been the resident expert on the College and its history and has authored a book on it. Skopp, distinguished teaching professor of history, has now been officially named the college historian. The appointment was made by Dr. John Ettling, SUNY Plattsburgh president.

Dr. Douglas Skopp "Dr. Skopp is an inspirational teacher, and he has been a positive force in the lives of his students and the career of our graduates," said Ettling. "This position is our way of commending him for the work he has done on behalf of Plattsburgh State."

In this role, Skopp will be available to help both individuals and groups who want to learn more about the history of the College.

"Being named college historian is a great honor and at the same time it is a great responsibility," said Skopp. "The history of our College is very powerful and unique, and I have the opportunity to help others understand it."

Skopp believes the history of a learning institution like SUNY Plattsburgh can often give insight into its future.

"I have always been interested in the history of schools and in their ability to help individuals benefit society," he said. "I think that one of the most interesting things we learn from studying the history of education is that we need to find out as much as we can about where we are in order to find out where we can be."

Skopp has been particularly attracted to Plattsburgh State's history because he has had such a personal connection to its students and faculty.

"Plattsburgh State has been a place where I have flourished. I have learned a great deal, and I continue to learn as the years go by," he said. "This College has served as a caring and supportive place for students and faculty who are committed to sharing knowledge."

In the mid-1980s, when SUNY Plattsburgh began planning events for its 100th anniversary, Skopp decided to work on a pictorial history of the College that would focus on its students. The product of his efforts was his book, Bright With Promise , which was published in 1989.

The new college historian already has several plans for the position.

"I want to organize and promote materials related to the College's history. This is an excellent way to protect our legacy for the future," said Skopp. "I am also planning to update Bright With Promise to include the history of the last 15 years. Thirdly, I want to provide as much assistance as I can to the staff of the Office of Institutional Advancement because I believe that creatively relating the history of the College can help stimulate financial support."

Skopp began teaching at Plattsburgh State in 1972. He received his bachelor's degree from Dartmouth College in 1963 and his master's from Connecticut College in 1964. He received his doctorate from Brown University in 1974.

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