For Robert Wermlinger, the decision to join what was then called the Scholars Program at Portland State University wasn’t part of a grand plan—it was a suggestion from a family friend and a chance to connect with similarly scholastically-minded individuals. What followed was a transformative academic journey that not only shaped his intellectual outlook but also laid the foundation for his diverse and unconventional career.
Drawn by the opportunity to meet people and explore a rigorous academic environment, Wermlinger’s initial experiences in the Scholars Program revolved around the shared coursework of “Studies in Western Culture.” This common academic foundation, he recalls, “gave us a common base,” fostering a strong sense of community among the students.
A history major, Wermlinger’s honors thesis began as an unconventional exploration of the history of the toilet but evolved into an analysis of the emergence of germ theory. “It was a journey from the sophomoric to something more substantial,” he reflects, highlighting how the process of research and writing sharpened his intellectual curiosity.
One of the most memorable figures in Wermlinger’s academic life was Professor Laureen Nussbaum, a professor of foreign languages and literature at PSU, whose teaching extended far beyond language instruction. “She would tell us stories about growing up under Nazi occupation, across the street from the Franks,” Wermlinger recalls. These personal narratives, shared in German, provided a powerful lens for understanding history and culture.
The Scholars’ Program’s interdisciplinary approach, particularly through its colloquium series, also left a lasting impression. “They’d invite foreign scholars to speak, including Dr. Alice Stewart,” Wermlinger remembers, noting how these lectures broadened his perspective and underscored the value of diverse intellectual viewpoints. Dr. Stewart was a British physician and epidemiologist who famously studied the effects of radiation on human health.
Now retired and approaching 65, Wermlinger continues to give back to the PSU community. He recently established a scholarship as a gesture of gratitude for the support he received during his academic journey. “Life experiences may differ by circumstance,” he says, “but appreciation is core throughout.”
As he reflects on the future, Wermlinger is optimistic about the role of the Honors College in fostering community-oriented leaders. “I like the ‘knowledge serving the city’ model,” he says. “It has a social function. It’s setting up students who want to benefit the community for a great path.”
With a legacy of intellectual curiosity, resilience, and generosity, Robert Wermlinger embodies the spirit of the PSU Honors College—a commitment to lifelong learning and a dedication to making a difference.