The Forum

The recipient of the 50th David L. Underwood Memorial Lecture Award is Emily Lasek, MA, LPC, professor of psychology at St. Louis Community College-Florissant Valley. “I’m honored,” Lasek stated. She said that she was glad that the subjects of psychology and mental health are being recognized.

This award is bestowed upon a member of the faculty or staff who demonstrates the same dedication to and love of education as its namesake, as well as the college’s mission to empower students, expand minds, and change lives.

David L. Underwood became an Associate Professor of English at FV in 1963, later becoming Dean of Instruction. The Florissant Valley library was named after him following his death in recognition of his love of books and literature, his unique contributions as Dean of Instruction, and his outstanding career as a humanistic teacher. He died suddenly of a heart attack in 1975. His wife, who has been a key supporter of the award, passed away this past March.

Professor Emily Lasek will give her Underwood Lecture later this fall.