Wichita, KS— Friends University is excited to welcome the following faculty and board on campus this fall.
Ann Harder
Ann Harder is a new Psychology Professor. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Historical Theology from Moody Bible Institute and a Master of Science in Family Therapy from Friends University. For the past three years, Harder has balanced experience from serving as an adjunct instructor at Friends University, managing her own private practice, and collaborating with the Mindful Therapy Group. She is also a member in good standing of the Kappa Delta Society and the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.
Dr. Ismael Heron
Ismael Heron is the new Special Appointment Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering. Dr. Heron received a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering, as well as a Doctorate of Philosophy in Aerospace Engineering from Wichita State University. He has 30 years of experience in aerospace engineering, including 20 years of experience in 14 CFR Parts 23 (pre-2017 reorganization) and 14 CFR 25, EASA CS-25, TCCA AWM-525, and MIL-STD & Control Requirements. Heron authored and co-authored 15 published papers in relevant professional societies and 4 publications in peer-reviewed journals.
Durga Venkata Suresh Koppisetty
Durga Venkata Suresh Koppisetty is the new Special Appointment Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering. Dr. Koppisetty received a Bachelor of Technology in Mechanical Engineering from JNTU University, India; a Master of Technology in Mechanical Engineering-Thesis from GITAM University, India; a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering-Thesis and is a Doctoral Candidate in Mechanical Engineering at Wichita State University. Alongside his position as Graduate Teaching and Research Assistant, Dr. Koppisetty participated in several academic projects, publications and technical skills.
Sarah Mae Lamar
Sarah Mae Lamar is the new Assistant Professor of Music Theatre. Lamar received a Bachelor of Theatre Education from Mid America Nazarene University, a Master of Theatre and Liberal Arts from Baker University, and a Master of Arts: Theatre Education from the University of Houston. She is a producer, director and the owner of ACT OUT Theatre Company in Long Beach, CA, focusing on production and educational outreach in acting, movement, voice and production.
Daniel Littler
Daniel Littler began his term on the Friends University Board of Trustees on January 1, 2025. Littler received a Bachelor in Finance & Accounting from Friends University and a Master of Business Administration in Finance from Texas A&N University. He serves as Managing Director of Business Strategy for INTRUST Bank where he oversees various functions including the firm’s corporate treasury and data analytics divisions.
Angela Pérez
Angela Pérez is the new Assistant Professor of Choral Music Education. Pérez received a Bachelor of Arts in Music from Friends University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education and a Master of Arts in Music Education from Wichita State University. She serves as a member of the American Choral Directors Association member (ACDA), National Association for Music Education member (NAfME), and the National Association of Teachers of Singing member (NATS).
Timothy D. Schloetzer
Timothy D. Schloetzer is the new Special Appointment, Assistant Professor for Cyber Security. Schloetzer received a Bachelor of Science in Cyber and Data Security Technology from University of Arizona Global Campus, a Master of Science in Computer Science from Colorado Technical University and is expected to receive his Doctorate in Cybersecurity Management in 2027 from Nova Southeastern University. He has had certifications as CISSP, PMP, PenTest+, CySA+, Security+, A+, AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner, and ITIL 4 Foundation.
##
Friends University, a Christian University of Quaker heritage, equips students to honor God and serve others by integrating their intellectual, spiritual, and professional lives. Friends University offers 60+ undergraduate degree options along with adult online, graduate, and doctoral degrees. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. For more information, visit our site at https://www.friends.edu/