Jerry Zolten, professor of communication arts and sciences and integrative arts at Penn State Altoona, is the 2021 recipient of the Lion’s Paw Medal. The Lion’s Paw Alumni Association annually awards the Lion’s Paw Medal to those who have contributed notable service to the University and its students. The Award is seen as a reflection of Lion’s Paw’s values, and the Medal selection committee notes Zolten’s dedication, service, and humility as being worthy of recognition. Zolten has been teaching at Penn State Altoona for 40 years, and in addition to his public speaking course, has developed two undergraduate courses that draw on his expertise: The Cultural Roots of Rock ‘n’ Roll and An American Cultural History through the Lens of Stand-up Comedy. He was also instrumental in bringing the long-running Blair County African American Heritage Festival to the Penn State Altoona campus. An author, co-editor, and contributor to a number of books and record albums on the subject of popular music, Zolten is also a voting member of the Recording Academy, sponsors of the annual Grammy Awards. Zolten will receive his award in April.
