In 2001, Vance E. Poteat had a change of career when he began teaching in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at Merrimack College. Once at Merrimack College, Poteat quickly became a favorite professor in his area of expertise. Today, he joins many esteemed professors as the 30th recipient of the Edward G. Roddy Outstanding Teacher of the Year Award, which is given annually at the College. The first award was given in 1985 to Dr. Edward G. Roddy, professor of history.
For 20 years, Poteat worked for Bell Telephone Laboratories as a Technical Manager, where he designed and managed products that range from analog and digital corded, cordless, and video telephones, to digital cable television set top boxes, Sonet/SDH multiplexers, and circuit switches.
Poteat received an A.A.S. in industrial engineering and an A.A.S. in electrical engineering from Wayne Community College; completed his undergraduate work in electrical engineering technology at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte; and earned his M.S. in computer science from Rutgers University.
He holds two patents and has published over 40 articles in journals and magazines.
As recipient of this year’s award, Poteat will present this fall at the annual “Last Lecture” sponsored by the Honors Program. The event will take place on Tuesday, November 18, 2014 at 7:30 p.m. in Cascia Hall. Poteat has much to share with his colleagues, students and community, as he speaks on matters of importance and value to his life as if it were the very last lecture given.
Poteat is currently chair and associate professor in the Department of Computer Science. He is a resident of Windham, New Hampshire.
