When Paul Salstrom, Ph.D. — affectionately known as Dr. Paul — retired in May 2020, there wasn’t room for much celebration. It was in the middle of the ongoing pandemic, and campus was still shut down. He quietly slipped into retirement without the recognition he deserved for his 27 years of service at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College.
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As he finished his book “Appalachia’s Alternative to Mainstream America,” it poised the perfect time to host a dual celebration — where he was able to sell and sign books while being reunited with The Woods community. But it was more than that. At the event held in the Woods Student Center on Nov. 18, Dottie L. King, Ph.D., president, presented Dr. Paul with the Aspire Higher Award — the first one to ever be given to a faculty member.
The award, established in 2013, is one of the highest honors to acknowledge individuals and businesses who demonstrate passion for using the present to create a better future. Because he is the first faculty member to receive the award, a special plaque was made with Dr. Paul’s likeness and will be displayed where additional faculty can be added as they are honored.
“Through the years I’ve watched you in action, and all the many things I’m impressed by, maybe the most is your dedication to the students outside of the classroom,” King said. “I thank you for all you have done for Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College — in the classroom and out of the classroom. You will forever be remembered here.”
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King recalled a few times when Dr. Paul has gone above and beyond for students, including writing a note to every senior softball player for senior night a few years ago. He can be seen at many campus events and athletics.
After asking if they could change the photo on the plaque that will be hung outside of Academic Affairs, he thanked everyone for coming.
“This is wonderful,” Dr. Paul said. “It has been a blessing for me to be here. Thank you everyone, it’s been nice.”
There wasn’t enough time in the day to tell all the stories that students, alumni and employees had to share, but many approached Dr. Paul during the celebration with their thanks, stories and blessings.
“He quickly became a favorite professor among students with his quirkiness, passion for history, stories and commitment to students — getting to know them, remembering them and asking about their well-being,” said Janet Clark, Ph.D., provost, during the reception. “As evidenced by students across his time at the College, this just continues more and more every day.”
With recommendation from the Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Academic Affairs and the president, the Board of Trustees unanimously voted for Dr. Paul to be ranked as professor emeritus in recognition of his exemplary teaching, scholarship and service to the College.
Although he is officially retired, Dr. Paul will still have an office on campus — albeit a smaller one, he quickly pointed out — and might still teach his Appalachia history course from time to time. Because he will still regularly be on campus, College officials thought an appropriate gift to him would be Pomeroy points to be used in the dining hall so he can still dine with The Woods community.
Dr. Paul started at The Woods as an assistant professor of history in 1994. In 2000, he was promoted to associate professor. He was awarded tenure in 2003.
He serves as a Providence Associate for the Sisters of Providence and is involved in his church.