Recognizing 2025 Trinity Faculty Retirements

The University thanks nine faculty members for their collective 274 years of teaching, research, and service

Wednesday, May 7, 2025

Trinity University proudly honors the retirement of nine faculty members whose teaching, research, and service have shaped generations of students and enriched the fabric of our community. These professors leave lasting legacies in their departments, throughout campus, and across our nation and our world. In sum, they have dedicated an impressive 274 years of service to the University.

Alan Astro: Department of Modern Languages and Literatures
A renowned scholar of French, Spanish, and Yiddish, Dr. Astro’s work on Jewish identity in literature has broadened understanding of linguistic and cultural intersections. His decades of teaching inspired students to approach language with curiosity and empathy.
Stacey Connelly: Department of Human Communication and Theatre
A gifted educator and director, Dr. Connelly brought literature and performance to life on stage and in the classroom. Her research on German theater, political theater, and international arts deepened the University’s global and interdisciplinary focus in the arts and humanities.
Jennifer Henderson: Department of Communication
Dr. Henderson brought energy and insight to courses in media studies and communication theory, while her leadership as vice provost reflected an unwavering commitment to student success. A dedicated mentor, she helped students become critical thinkers and thoughtful communicators.
Glenn Kroeger: Department of Earth and Environmental Geosciences
Dr. Kroeger’s expertise in geophysics and environmental science made a profound impact on Trinity’s research profile and student experience. He brought real-world application to the study of Earth systems, including through SeismicCanvas, a software application he developed for viewing and analyzing seismic data.
Pablo Martinez: Department of Modern Languages and Literatures
A passionate teacher of Spanish language and culture, Dr. Martinez connected students to the richness of the Spanish-speaking world. His dedication to inclusive pedagogy and community engagement elevated the department’s commitment to global learning.
Kimberlyn Montford: Department of Music
Dr. Montford’s scholarship on medieval music, opera, Baroque sacred music, African American music, and film music aesthetics brought depth and resonance to Trinity’s music program. She was key in developing Trinity's African American studies program and a precursor to Trinity’s First-Year Experience, “Culture and Creativity in the Middle Ages and Renaissance.”
Richard Reed: Department of Sociology and Anthropology
Dr. Reed’s anthropological work in South America and his commitment to community-based research provided students with a global and ethical lens on society. He championed social justice and cultural understanding throughout his career, including his involvement with the San Antonio River Authority on the redesign and the monitoring of the San Antonio River.
Bob Scherer: Neidorff School of Business
As dean and a member of the faculty, Dr. Scherer brought strategic vision and academic innovation to Trinity’s b-school. He has contributed research and conference talks in international business, fostered strong industry partnerships in San Antonio and beyond, and helped position students for success in an evolving global economy.
Diane Smith: Department of Earth and Environmental Geosciences
Dr. Smith's expertise in igneous petrology and her passion for teaching brought the Earth's dynamic processes to life for her students. Her leadership in field- and lab-based education and curriculum development strengthened the department's academic foundation, and Dr. Smith underscored her commitment to research and scholarship in her role as an Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs.