International Board of Directors

INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF TORCH CLUBS

2026 Board of Directors

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

PRESIDENT
(Term 2026-28)
Columbus, OH

Rich Davis became a dynamic force in the Columbus Torch club after joining in 2011, quickly rising through the ranks to serve as Vice President and President. With 43 years of pioneering experience as a hospital-based biomedical engineer, Rich captivated the club with his insightful presentation on “Advances in Biomedical Technology, Observations from the Inside.” His impressive contributions extended to the 2016 Columbus Torch Convention, earning him the role of IATC Convention Director, and was later entrusted with the duties of IATC Treasurer. Rich dedicated nearly five years to both positions with unwavering commitment.

Rich’s illustrious career at The Ohio State University spanned 39 years, during which he excelled in overseeing medical equipment planning, imparting knowledge as a faculty member, and assuming senior leadership roles in the Heart Hospital and University Hospital. His passion for service saw him volunteering with Project HOPE for over a decade, leading impactful missions to China and Honduras.

VICE PRESIDENT & SECRETARY
(Elected 2026-2028)
Buffalo, NY

Joe Zawicki's journey as a passionate science educator began amidst the rolling landscapes of Western New York, where he was born to Leo and Rita Zawicki. Fuelled by an early fascination with math and science, Joe embarked on a scholarly path that led him to achieve a Bachelor's in Biology, a Master's in Education, and a Doctorate specializing in alternative performance assessment in physics. With over thirteen years of experience teaching high school students, Joe transitioned to Buffalo State University in 2001, where he now kindles the curiosity of aspiring science educators.

Joe's leadership extends beyond the classroom; since joining the Buffalo Torch club in 2011, his dynamic presence has propelled him to roles such as IATC Region 10 director and board Secretary. Joe is driven to enhance the Torch's influence and ignite the passion for life-long learning in others. His unwavering commitment promises to shape the future of science education, making him a beacon of inspiration in his community and beyond.

PAST PRESIDENT
(Term 2026-28)
Winston-Salem, NC

Art's career showcases remarkable versatility and achievement. In 2000, he launched The Bloom Agency, a groundbreaking marketing, advertising, and PR firm, quickly becoming one of the Piedmont Triad's fastest-growing companies and earning numerous accolades. Art later became a certified business coach, inspiring countless individuals to success.

Beyond his professional triumphs, Art has held influential roles with Arbor Acres Retirement Community, UNC School of the Arts Foundation, and Piedmont Opera. He served as cantorial soloist for Temple Emanuel for twenty-five years and conducts a vibrant seventy-person show choir at Arbor Acres. In 2023, he received the National United Methodist Association Mission Award for his impactful use of music.

While serving as IATC President, Art chairs the Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF) board. His wife, Mindy, is Development Director for Ronald McDonald House of the Piedmont Triad. They have a daughter, son-in-law, and grandson in Atlanta.

TREASURER
(Elected 2024-26)
Fox Valley, WI

Paul, a dynamic force from the heart of the Fox Valley in Wisconsin, is not your average retiree. With a distinguished career in manufacturing behind him, he now wears multiple hats with finesse. As the current Treasurer of IATC and a Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM), Paul brings unparalleled expertise and leadership to every role he undertakes.

Beyond his professional accolades, Paul volunteers with the American Red Cross on response and recovery activities and helps build handicapped ramps with a local Lion’s club.

Paul's influence extends beyond Wisconsin; he's a sought-after speaker at national industry trade organizations, captivating audiences with his insights on leadership and industry trends.
Passionate about exploration, Paul finds joy in travel and outdoor pursuits, embodying a life rich in adventure and contribution.

REGIONAL & AT-LARGE DIRECTORS

REGION 2 DIRECTOR
(Elected 2026-28)
Lancaster, PA

Dr. Ana Börger-Greco's journey is a testament to her diverse expertise and unwavering passion. With undergraduate degrees in art history and Spanish Literature from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, followed by a PhD in Romance Languages and Literatures from the University of Pennsylvania, Ana's academic foundation is profound. Before her doctoral studies, she excelled as a technical translator in power-plant technology and mining engineering, shaping a pivotal German-English-German dictionary for these fields.

Throughout her 45-year teaching career, she was an educator at Millersville University for 29 years, including 11 years as Director of the Spanish graduate program. Ana's impact resonated globally. She enriched students' lives as a visiting professor at prestigious institutions like the Universities of Salamanca, Camilo José Cela, Menéndez y Pelayo International in Spain, and the University of the Bosphorus in Turkey. Today, Ana continues to flourish as a literary translator, Executive Director of The José Greco Foundation for Hispanic Dance, and educator at Quest Lancaster. Her leadership extends to the Torch club, where she directs Region 2 and contributes to the Torch Expansion Team in Lancaster, PA.

REGION 4 & 9 DIRECTOR
(Elected 2024-26)
Columbia, SC

David Coward is a dynamic professional whose journey spans diverse fields and passions. In the 1970s, he immersed himself in architecture, mechanical engineering, and computer science, setting a robust foundation for his career. Transitioning from a decade in the insurance industry, David dedicated the next four decades to pioneering advancements in information technology.

Beyond his professional feats, David's commitment to community service shines brightly. As a Stephen Minister, he has provided invaluable support, engaged in impactful mission work, and lifted spirits through his choir performances at the United Methodist Church. Adding to his altruism, David served as an Americorps VISTA Volunteer, channeling his skills to uplift communities nationwide.

Fueling his adventurous spirit, David has explored all 50 states multiple times and ventured through 14 countries, absorbing diverse cultures and broadening his worldview. Alongside his wife, he tackles marathons across the United States, tallying races in 33 states to date. David Coward epitomizes a life enriched by knowledge, service, and boundless exploration.

REGION 10 Director
(Appointed 2026-28)
Buffalo, NY

Dr. Joe Engemann has dedicated his career to advancing education at every level—from the middle school classroom to graduate education and scholarly research. After spending 17 years inspiring young learners as a middle school teacher, he earned his PhD in science education from the University at Buffalo and went on to become a respected professor and researcher. His academic career has included appointments at both the University at Buffalo and Brock University in Ontario, Canada, where he helped shape future educators and educational leaders.

A recognized expert in science and mathematics education, assessment, curriculum development, and research methodology, Joe has authored two books, published numerous journal articles, and delivered more than 40 peer-reviewed conference presentations. His impact extends far beyond his own scholarship; he has mentored more than 80 master's and doctoral students through the completion of their theses and dissertations while also serving as a reviewer for leading educational research journals.

Joe's commitment to lifelong learning and intellectual exchange also extends to Torch. He brings the unique distinction of having served as president of two Torch clubs in two different countries, the St. Catharines Torch club in Canada and the Buffalo Torch club in the United States, demonstrating his dedication to fostering Torch's mission on both sides of the border.

Whether in the classroom, the lecture hall, through his research, or in Torch leadership, Joe has spent a lifetime helping others learn, grow, and succeed.

REGION 8 DIRECTOR
(Elected 2022-24, 2024-26)
Durham-Chapel Hill, NC

Rod Gerwe is a vibrant pillar of the Durham-Chapel Hill Torch club, where he has dedicated over a decade to leadership, serving as past president and current membership chairman. His influence extends internationally through his role on the IATC board and as Director of Region 8, showcasing his steadfast commitment to community and professional excellence.

Educated at Duke University with a BS in chemistry and later earning a Ph.D. in organic chemistry from Florida State University, Rod's academic journey was enriched by a prestigious postdoctoral research tenure at the Technical University of Karlsruhe in Germany. He has since made significant contributions in the chemical industry and launched a successful consulting firm.

Beyond his professional achievements, Rod finds joy in family life with his wife, Barbara, and takes pride in their three children and six grandchildren. An avid traveler with a passion for languages and classical music, Rod's true delight lies in playing classical piano, where his talents shine brightly.

REGION 6 & 7 DIRECTOR
(Elected 2026-28
Saginaw Valley, MI

For more than four decades, Dr. Gail Hoffman dedicated her career to education, rising from professor to senior academic leadership roles including Division Chair, Senate President, Dean of Teaching & Learning, and Interim Vice President of Instruction & Learning Services at Delta College. Her passion for developing people and building stronger communities did not end with retirement—it simply found a new stage.

Driven by a commitment to service, Gail immersed herself in humanitarian and peacebuilding initiatives through Rotary, embracing its mission of “Service Above Self.” Today, she serves in leadership positions at the club, district, and international levels, championing peace and conflict transformation while helping guide Rotary Foundation Peace Fellowships. Her influence extends globally through her work with the organization International Cities of Peace, where she serves on the Board and helped secure Midland’s designation as an International City of Peace.

Gail and her husband, Tom, joined the Saginaw Valley Torch club in 2022 and quickly became active contributors. After joining the Board in 2024 as Treasurer, Gail now looks forward to bringing her leadership, collaborative spirit, and lifelong dedication to service to her new role as Regional Director for Regions 6 and 7.

FOUNDATION PRESIDENT,
AT-LARGE DIRECTOR:
FUNDRAISING & LEGAL
(Appointed 2024-26)
Winston-Salem, NC

Doug Punger has been an integral member of the Torch club of Winston-Salem since 2008, serving as club secretary for three terms, Vice President, and President. He serves as President of the Torch Foundation. His insightful presentations, including a captivating history of the club, impressed Leo Kellogg and others, leading to his role co-chairing the prestigious IATC Centennial History Project.

Doug's career as General Counsel for Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools for over 33 years, coupled with teaching Education Law at Wake Forest School of Law for a decade, highlights his legal acumen and commitment to education. He has also chaired numerous nonprofit community organizations, embodying his dedication to civic engagement.

Married for over 50 years to Leila, Doug enjoys a fulfilling family life with three married sons and four beloved grandchildren. His journey exemplifies leadership, scholarly dedication, and a profound impact on his community, making him a cherished figure both in legal circles and beyond.

AT-LARGE DIRECTOR:
CONVENTIONS
(Elected, 2025-26)
Richmond, VA

Bob Schmidt is a long-standing member of the Richmond Torch club where he served as treasurer for 11 years, vice president, and president twice. He co-chaired the 2007 IATC convention and chaired the 2024 IATC convention, both in Richmond.

Bob received his BA in economics from the University of Wisconsin ─ Madison and his MA and Ph.D. in economics from Duke University. He joined the economics faculty at the University of Richmond (UR) in 1972, served 11 years as department chair and a year as interim dean of the Robins School of Business, before retiring in 2018 as professor emeritus. He has authored or co-authored many peer-reviewed articles and conference presentations. His research areas include the efficacy of vocational rehabilitation (VR), relationships between economic and population change, the economics of education, and other policy issues. He has worked on multiple federal research grants and served as principal investigator on a five-year grant researching VR's efficacy. He continues that research in "retirement."

Bob enjoyed international travels while at Duke and UR. He and his wife split their time between their homes in Richmond and Duck on the Outer Banks of North Carolina.

REGION 3 DIRECTOR
(Elected 2023-25)
Winchester, VA

Steve Sosson brings boundless energy to the Torch club of Winchester, VA, where he has been a member since 2015, serving as Vice-President and President. His leadership extended to chairing the prestigious 2023 IATC Convention in Baltimore, showcasing his organizational skills and dedication to intellectual exchange.

With a distinguished 35-year career as a civil servant, Steve excelled as a senior analyst in two agencies, finding particular fulfillment in shaping motor vehicle policy and oversight. His passion for knowledge and community engagement shines through in his captivating presentations at the club, including topics like the History of the Civil Service and innovative geological insights into Sodom and Gomorrah.

Outside his professional endeavors, Steve remains deeply involved in his community, serving on the board of his local Volunteer Fire/Rescue company. His enduring partnership with his wife, Ruth, spanning 46 years, reflects his commitment to family and shared values. Steve's multifaceted contributions enrich both professional circles and community life alike.

REGION 1 DIRECTOR
(Elected 2020-23, 2023-25)
Saratoga, NY

Gerald Stulc, Region 1 director of the IATC and President of the Saratoga Torch club, dazzled as host of the 2022 Convention. His journey spans from Navy flight surgeon (Capt. 0-6) to oncology and trauma surgeon, complemented by an MFA in Creative Writing. Gerald is a prolific author of scientific and medical history articles and a historical fiction novel, currently working on two nonfiction books. As chair of educational organizations, he lectures on medicine, history, and art across regional clubs and the IATC, also serving as an adjunct professor at SUNY-Adirondack.

Beyond academia, Gerald paints, plays classical guitar, and tends to his gardens. His interests include art, antiques, first edition books, and militaria. Recently, he and his son Evan produced a promotional video for the IATC. Gerald lives in Upstate New York with his wife, Diana, also a physician, and enjoys family time with his two sons, embodying a life rich in creativity, scholarship, and community engagement.

REGION 5 DIRECTOR
(Elected 2026-28)
Columbus, OH

Nancy Wardwell, Professor Emerita at Ohio State University's College of Education, has been an active figure since retiring in 2002. She plays a pivotal role in the OSU Retirees Association, serving as the steadfast editor of their monthly newsletter. Nancy has been a dedicated member of the Columbus Torch club since 2009, where she chaired the Fellowship Committee and assumed the Presidency in 2021.

Recently, she has also contributed to the revitalized Membership Committee. Recognized for her leadership, Nancy took on the significant responsibility of Director for IATC Region 5 in 2022, further expanding her influence within academic and community circles. Her commitment to education and organizational excellence underscores her ongoing contributions to both Ohio State University and the broader intellectual community of Columbus.