A New Year, a New Semester, and Gratitude for Those Who Came Before Us
As we begin a new year at Kettering College, we pause for one final reflection. Last year, we said goodbye to four remarkable faculty members whose combined 144 years of service left a lasting mark on our campus. Across decades of change and generations of students, these educators were steady presences—challenging minds, encouraging growth, and shaping future healthcare professionals.
Joan Ulloth, PhD, RN: 43 Years of Service
Dr. Joan Ulloth was a cornerstone of the Division of Nursing. Known for her expertise in pharmacology and medical-surgical nursing, she brought clarity, compassion, and humor to even the most challenging material.
Beyond the classroom, Dr. Ulloth made a lasting institutional impact by founding the nursing tutoring program in 2004. Designed to provide early intervention and individualized support, the program helped countless students stay on track and succeed.
“She didn’t just teach nursing—she made sure students believed they belonged here.” – Dr. Paula Reams, Dean of Nursing at Kettering College
Paul DeLange, PhD: 43 Years of Service
Dr. Paul DeLange was a familiar face and a foundational presence at Kettering College. Over four decades, he taught a wide range of science courses, including microbiology, anatomy and physiology labs, genetics, human biology, and academic success strategies.
His teaching style balanced structure, high expectations, and grace. Dr. DeLange believed the true measure of teaching wasn’t test scores, but long-term impact. He regularly connected course material to real-life applications, drawing from personal experience, faith, and family.
“Great teaching isn’t measured in exams—it’s measured in lives changed.” – Dr. Paul Delange
Vail McGuire, PhD: 36 Years of Service
Dr. Vail McGuire helped generations of students find their voice through writing. Her courses emphasized reflection, empathy, and thoughtful communication.
Her influence extended beyond the classroom through leadership in assessment, accreditation, and curriculum development. Shaped by her own academic journey and doctoral research at the intersection of rhetoric and Christian theology, Dr. McGuire brought depth and intention to her teaching, helping students clarify what mattered most and express it with purpose.
“Writing was never just an assignment; it was a way to understand ourselves and others.” – Dr. Vail McGuire
Elizabeth Golba, EdD: 22 Years of Service
Dr. Elizabeth Golba began teaching at Kettering College in 2004 as an adjunct faculty member in the Respiratory Care program, bringing over 30 years of clinical experience to the classroom. More than a decade later, she transitioned to the Health Sciences program, where she thrived as a mentor to adult learners, balancing school, work, and family life.
In Health Sciences, Dr. Golba taught courses in ethics, healthcare management, and leadership. Her scholarly interests included online learning, interprofessional simulation, and diversity, equity, and inclusion, reflecting her commitment to forward-thinking, inclusive education.
Her legacy endures in the confidence she instilled in her students and in the conviction that learning is a lifelong process.
“Never, ever give up on your dreams, and believe you’re never too old to reach them.” – Dr. Elizabeth Golba
As we step into a new year, we carry these legacies with us. The lessons, values, and care modeled by these faculty members continue to shape how we teach, learn, and serve. New chapters bring new opportunities, but the foundation they built remains, guiding us forward.
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