Michael Sollenberger Remembered Fondly by Mount Community

Audrey Owens

On March 2, 2026, Michael Sollenberger, Professor Emeritus of World Languages and Cultures, passed away at age 76 at York Hospital after experiencing a brief illness.

Sollenberger’s impact on the Mount community is long lasting, with alumni, previous coworkers and current professors rallying to show how loved and respected he was as an educator.  

Born in Philadelphia, Sollenberger was a long-time resident of Pennsylvania. A Classics scholar, he studied and primarily taught Latin. Based on the testament of his coworker, it was clear how passionate he was about his craft. 

When asked about Sollenberger’s impact on the Mount, Dr. Peter Dorsey, a current Professor of English, responded, “I think it was really huge.” He described Sollenberger as a one-person department, being the only person to teach classics, and he was always willing to go above and beyond.

If a student wanted to learn Greek, the late Professor “would set up an independent study here or do a little tiny class.” Sollenberger was happy to do what universities refer to as an overload, teaching more than the required number of courses. He was completely willing to take on extra work to suit the wants and needs of his students. 

Sollenberger was not just a pleasure to be taught by, he was also a pleasure to collaborate with. When asked what it was like to work with him, Dorsey said, “it was really delightful. I’m sure you’ve heard he was a funny guy, so he always had a nice little joke or a quip.” He added that, “he was friendly to everyone, so it was always great to chat with him.” 

Universally it is noticeable what a well-liked and “funny guy” Sollenberger was. The Mount’s Facebook post commemorating his life is flooded with comments from alumni with nothing but good things to say. 

Deborah Stocker Giles (C'95), wrote that “he was one of the finest professors I’ve ever had. I was blessed to have him as my freshman seminar professor, and he became my advisor until I graduated four years later. I could always count on him for honest advice and a quick laugh.” She even went as far to say, “I will forever be grateful for his influence on my life--he is one of the reasons I am a teacher today.” 

There were many more heartfelt comments on the post, as well as some silly ones. 

Another former student wrote, “I hope he enjoys so many bacon eggs-que in heaven.” 

Dorsey has fond memories of Sollenberger “grazing.” He said, “You know, if somebody had donuts over here, or somebody had a little luncheon setup or something, he would always be one that would want to come in and join the fun.”

Whether it be influence, passion or lighthearted memories, Sollenberger’s impact on his peers, his students and the Mount community will not be forgotten.