Thiel business major distinguished with the Champion Award at PIMS graduation ceremony

Posted February 8, 2018Communications and Marketing Department

GREENVILLE, Pa.—Thiel College business administration and mortuary science major Joseph Barnett ’18, of North Bloomfield, Ohio, graduated from the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science recently and was recognized for his scholarship during the institute’s Commencement Exercises.

Barnett, a 2014 graduate of Lakeview (Ohio) High School, received an Associate in Specialized Technology Degree and his award during the institute’s 156th Commencement Exercises held in the Calvary Episcopal Church, Shady Side, Pittsburgh on Friday, Jan. 19.

During the ceremony, Barnett was distinguished with the Champion Award, a merit-based honor presented to the student most recognized by the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science Faculty for overall scholarship, aptitude and practical skills specific to the core science component of the curriculum. Barnett will be awarded a Bachelor’s degree at Thiel College’s Commencement in May.

For more than 30 years, Thiel College has had a partnership with the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science whereby students pursue three years of study at Thiel followed by 12 months at the Institute in Pittsburgh. After their fourth year, students receive both a Thiel College Bachelor of Arts degree and the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science certificate.

The Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science is licensed by the Pennsylvania State Board of Private Licensed Schools and the Pennsylvania Department of Education. Besides preparing students for funeral direction, the institute is approved for the training of veterans and provides vocational rehabilitation.

Related Link

Related Stories

Office of Admission


About Thiel College

Thiel College is an independent college founded in the Lutheran tradition. Located in Greenville, Pa., the College offers 60 majors and minors, 24 varsity sports, and an 11:1 student-faculty ratio. The College is also home to a new Master of Science in speech-language pathology and 2Master of Business Administration. Both master’s degree programs offer innovative and accelerated five-year paths which allow students to earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree in five years. The speech-language pathology program also has an accelerated 15-month graduate-level program. The M.B.A. program also has a 12-month post-graduate program.A dedicated faculty paired with dynamic research and internship opportunities produce numerous graduate school and job placements. Coeducational from its beginnings, the College remains committed to combining tradition with innovation as it celebrates 150 years.



Thiel College
75 College Ave
Greenville, PA 16125
1-800-248-4435