Donation of 1940 Ford Automobile Brings Former Student Full-Circle
Published 09.24.2013
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A vintage automobile has been given to Pennsylvania College of Technology by a Centre County resident who used it to commute to classes at a predecessor institution 50 years ago.
Galen Mellott, of Port Matilda, who attended Williamsport Technical Institute for toolmaking technology from 1962-64, donated a 1940 Ford for use by students in the college’s automotive restoration technology major.
Mellott owned the car – his first vehicle – for 55 years, occasionally driving it back and forth from State College to attend classes.
“The program is very grateful for such a generous gift that has a history to be shared with students,” said Colin W. Williamson, dean of the School of Transportation & Natural Resources Technologies. “The car is in great shape and will be an excellent learning project to restore to its original condition. We hope to give the project the same respect and care as its previous owner has shown it through the decades.”
Mellott, who went to work for HRB-Singer in State College immediately following his studies, returned to campus during the spring semester. He met with Alumni Relations representatives, visiting his former labs – and touring those that have been added or upgraded since he was a student. He expressed an interest in donating the V8-powered vehicle to Penn College and was put in touch with Williamson.
“Penn College continues to have an excellent reputation,” Mellott said. “Because of my education at the school and my career in manufacturing, Penn College was the logical place for me to donate a vehicle for its automotive restoration major.”
For more about the college, email the Admissions Office or call toll-free 800-367-9222.
Galen Mellott, of Port Matilda, who attended Williamsport Technical Institute for toolmaking technology from 1962-64, donated a 1940 Ford for use by students in the college’s automotive restoration technology major.
Mellott owned the car – his first vehicle – for 55 years, occasionally driving it back and forth from State College to attend classes.
“The program is very grateful for such a generous gift that has a history to be shared with students,” said Colin W. Williamson, dean of the School of Transportation & Natural Resources Technologies. “The car is in great shape and will be an excellent learning project to restore to its original condition. We hope to give the project the same respect and care as its previous owner has shown it through the decades.”
Mellott, who went to work for HRB-Singer in State College immediately following his studies, returned to campus during the spring semester. He met with Alumni Relations representatives, visiting his former labs – and touring those that have been added or upgraded since he was a student. He expressed an interest in donating the V8-powered vehicle to Penn College and was put in touch with Williamson.“Penn College continues to have an excellent reputation,” Mellott said. “Because of my education at the school and my career in manufacturing, Penn College was the logical place for me to donate a vehicle for its automotive restoration major.”
For more about the college, email the Admissions Office or call toll-free 800-367-9222.