New Boyer School Professors Talk Why They Chose SVC
By Mariano Jimenez, staff writer
*Originally Published September 18th, 2024
“Why Saint Vincent College (SVC)?” This is a question that everyone, including faculty, professors, and students regardless of year or major, has asked or at least wondered. While the answers vary from person to person, some common narratives influence a person’s decision to join our amazing community. For some, it is the small classes, the Benedictine-Catholic tradition, or the opportunity to make a difference in a student’s life.
This is certainly the case for Dr. Marcela Mera, a new assistant professor of computer and information systems. Dr. Mera, a Colombia native, graduated from the University of Cauca in Popayan, and earned master’s and doctoral degrees from West Virginia University. Dr. Mera’s research focuses on the visual interpretation and interface of robots, which can be used to advance self-driving vehicles and small agriculture.
Dr. Mera chose SVC because of its location (close to the city, yet not overpopulated), small classes, and for Dr. Mera and her family to grow in their faith. Mera talked about the importance of the college’s focus on its Catholic and Benedictine traditions in her decision. Since moving to Latrobe, she and a few friends have started a weekly prayer group. When asked about the relationship between faith and science, she responded that both are complements of each other. That nature and creation itself are not random, unrelated events that arise from nothing. On the contrary, Dr. Mera points to God as the mind behind everything.
Faith isn’t Dr. Mera’s only passion, however. “I am a passionate fan of the Colombian soccer team,” she said, “and an avid reader who ranges from a variety of topics.” This semester she is teaching Introduction to CC++ and Data Structures.
The health science department is also welcoming a new faculty member. Dr. Andy Palko is a new assistant professor of biological sciences here at Saint Vincent. Dr. Palko earned a doctorate in physical activity and health at the University of Pittsburgh. His research is emphasized in the assessment and diagnostic process of sports injuries, especially concussions. Dr. Palko has been teaching in higher education since 2007, and is a certified athletic trainer, having worked at institutions from divisions I through III.
Through his various professional endeavors, he became interested in teaching. Dr. Palko specifically chose Saint Vincent because he has “always been aware of Saint Vincent’s community…and quality of education.”
Dr. Palko sees Saint Vincent as a way to cultivate and further develop his professional career, and the futures of his students through his vast practical knowledge. Palko is a massive sports fan, expressing that he “really enjoys the competitive nature of sports out there, [whether] that is table tennis or football.”
However, for all students wondering, Dr. Palko is not into fantasy football anymore due to “time constraints”. Furthermore, he enjoys going on runs, lifting, mountain biking, and backpacking across the country.
The Review welcomes and wishes the best for both Mera and Palko in the upcoming year. For all interested in stopping by to say hello or introduce themselves, their respective offices are in the Dupre Science Pavilion W219 and N102.
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