Robert Dulak, BA Social Science ’68, has been working as an education and programming consultant following his retirement from a career in college administration. Kent State became his professional base after he pursued a graduate degree there and became part of the school’s residence life department. Eventually, he took on the role of directing the athletics program at Kent’s Ashtabula campus.
Dulak initially studied architecture at Pratt before transitioning to the social sciences. He considers his time at Pratt crucial to his educational and professional journey. Having received financial aid during his college years, Dulak has been motivated to support future generations and has remained a dedicated benefactor of Pratt students. In an interview, he shared insights from his career and emphasized the transformative power of higher education.
Could you elaborate on your transition from architecture to liberal arts and sciences at Pratt and the motivations behind this shift?
Reflecting on my Pratt experience and its influence on my subsequent studies and career path, I must highlight the role of financial aid in this journey. My trajectory deviated from the norm, commencing in the fall of 1964 when I enrolled in the School of Architecture. It was during my sophomore year that a course in architectural history revealed my deeper inclination towards cultural history rather than design. Coincidentally, Pratt expanded its liberal arts offerings during my third year, providing me with the opportunity to pursue my newfound passion without leaving the institution.
How did scholarships and financial aid impact your educational journey and shape your future endeavors?
Upon graduating in 1968, I secured admission to the MA program in East European Cultural History at Kent State University, partly due to a full graduate assistantship and a private research grant. Pratt played a significant role in preparing me for this academic pursuit. Furthermore, my experience as a dormitory floor adviser at Pratt directly paved the way for my role as a residential hall counselor at Kent. Pratt not only laid the academic groundwork for my journey but also facilitated my professional advancement.
Following graduation, I fulfilled my ROTC military obligation, intending to return for a doctorate in the same field. However, an unexpected opportunity arose when my dormitory experiences led to a full-time position in Kent’s Residence Halls Department. This transition prompted me to switch my graduate studies to a major in Higher Education Administration and Counseling.
In what ways did your experiences at Pratt influence your post-graduate education and career trajectory, and how have you maintained ties with the Pratt community?
Pratt not only equipped me for the academic challenges of graduate school but also for my emerging professional path. Embracing Pratt’s motto, “Be true to your work and your work will be true to you,” I imbibed a mindset that no task is insignificant and deserves my utmost dedication. This ethos, instilled at Pratt, has guided my approach to projects with a blend of creativity, innovation, and a touch of flair—the quintessential Pratt approach. This mindset propelled my career progression, leading to an earlier-than-expected promotion after six years, transitioning to Kent’s Ashtabula campus where I oversaw Student Activities and Athletics while also serving as a coach. My tenure in Ashtabula lasted until my retirement in 1998, following which I ventured into educational consulting and programming.
I credit much of my achievements to the foundation and attitude nurtured at Pratt. My capacity to hold various leadership roles at state and regional levels is a direct testament to the attributes honed at Pratt.
What message would you like to convey to fellow alumni regarding the significance of remaining connected to and supporting the Pratt community?
Drawing from my experience as a college administrator, where over 70% of students rely on financial aid, I emphasize the role of predecessors in providing the financial groundwork for current and future students. It is incumbent upon us to extend support so that students, both present and future, have a platform to elevate themselves.
There are diverse avenues through which you can contribute to Pratt, ranging from including Pratt in your will, establishing scholarships, to participating in fundraising campaigns. The Office of Institutional Advancement can guide you through these options. Let us collectively offer our support to alumni and upcoming generations, providing them with the foundation to soar to greater heights.
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