The University of Scranton Honors Biology Faculty Member

Pictured at the presentation of The University of Scranton’s John L. Earl III Award are, from left: Donald Boomgaarden, Ph.D., provost and senior vice president for academic affairs; University of Scranton President Kevin P. Quinn, S.J.; Terrence Sweeney, Ph.D., Earl Award recipient, professor and chair of the Biology Department; Pauline Earl, wife of the late John Earl; and Karen Earl Kolon, M.D., daughter of the late John Earl.

Terrence Sweeney, Ph.D., professor and chair of the Biology Department at The University of Scranton, was honored the John L. Earl III Award for service to the University, the faculty and the wider community. This award is presented annually to a member of the University community who demonstrates the spirit of generosity and dedication that the late Dr. John Earl, a distinguished professor of history, exemplified during his years at Scranton from 1964 to 1996.

Dr. Sweeney joined the University faculty in 1992. His research and teaching interests include cardiovascular and microvascular physiology and anatomy.

Dr. Sweeney, with assistance from University of Scranton students, developed a computer-driven, mechanical model that simulates the functions of the human cardiovascular system that can be used for teaching. The model can be used to demonstrate the operation and roles played by the key elements of the cardiovascular system, coupled with quantitative, multi-parameter data collection and analytical capabilities.

In recognition of his invention, Dr. Sweeney was selected as the 2012 recipient of the ADInstruments Macknight Progressive Educator Award, which is granted by the American Physiological Society (APS) Education Committee. In addition, he was awarded third place in the regional Business Plan Competition run by TecBridge for a business plan for marketing the model.

Dr. Sweeney earned his bachelor’s degree from Colgate University and his master’s and Ph.D. from the University of Rochester.