The 3E Institute (Institute for Educational Excellence and Entrepreneurship) is located at West Chester University of Pennsylvania. The Institute is an integral part of the College of Education. It works with entrepreneurial educators, providing them recognition, support and professional development opportunities. It also connects entrepreneurial educators with colleagues, scientists, the business and industry world and the community, as well as best practice and other resources.

The history of 3E originates from its founding by visionary educational entrepreneurs with the support of US Department of Education and West Chester University of PA.

An advisory council of WCU and school district educators, representatives of business and industry, non-profit organizational representatives, present a wealth of creative ideas, expertise and support that the 3E Institute can tap.

Take a moment to meet the West Chester University people who lead, position and maintain the 3E Institute. Our e-newsletters give a sense of our 3E community and their work. You may also find our FAQ section helpful. 

3E People

Dr. Greg R. Weisenstein began his tenure as West Chester University’s 14th president, March 2, 2009. Since 2005, he had served as provost and vice president for academic affairs at the University of North Dakota. On a regional level, Dr. Weisenstein has chaired and held positions on a variety of committees focusing on educational improvement, quality of life, and economic development. Nationally, in addition to serving on presidential advisory committees under presidents Jimmy Carter, Ronald Reagan, and George H. W. Bush, he was among a small number of education deans selected to discuss national education policy with President George W. Bush and First Lady Laura Bush in the White House in 2002. Dr. Weisenstein is also an experienced international negotiator and facilitator. Working for the U.S. Department of State, he was responsible for leading restructuring of higher education in the Republic of Moldova. He serves as chairperson of the World Bank Education Task Force for the National Association of State Universities and Land-Grant Colleges and was the chief negotiator for international agreements in Brazil and in Western, Central, and Eastern Europe, including direct talks with former Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev. Dr. Weisenstein is the author of more than 65 publications, including four books, and has given more than 100 keynote presentations at national and international conferences. His numerous honors include State Educator of the Year, Best Program of the Year, and the Teaching and Advising Excellence Award.
Dr. Joseph Malak was named Dean of the College of Education, after serving as Interim Dean for a year and a half. He served as Associate Dean beginning July 1,2002. Dr. Malak participates in 3E Institute Advisory Council meetings and other events. He is a strong advocate of entrepreneurial educators and the 3E Institute. Dr. Malak serves on professional councils and boards in addition to his responsibilities at West Chester University.
Ms. Patricia Beneš is Executive Director of the 3E Institute. She has many years of experience as a senior higher education administrator and advancement professional. She is responsible for over all 3E programming and administration, including the Educator 500, the Annual Forum, Summer Institutes, 3E Ambassadors, and other programs, as well as organizational operations, planning and marketing. Ms. Beneš is active in community organizations. Pat earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Oberlin College and a Master of Science in Educational Research from West Chester University.
Ms. Lynne Gilpert is 3E’s administrative assistant.  Lynne has nearly 20 years of experience supporting sales, customer service, marketing and human resources in the telecommunications industry. She has high skill level in prioritizing, streamlining processes and working in a fast paced environment.  Her duties at 3E include event logistics, office management and documentation, materials   Lynne lives in Coatesville and is an active member in many area organizations.  A self-declared “people person,” Lynne enjoys meeting and working with members of 3E’s growing community.
Ms. Gingi Wingard is the Partnership and Curriculum Coordinator for the 3E Institute. She is an experienced educator with over 15 years of experience in the areas of professional development, curriculum consulting, technology-based learning, and primary and secondary education.   She has also been a classroom teacher in both public and independent elementary schools. Ms. Wingard is responsible for coordinating professional development initiatives, supporting the College of Education’s Entrepreneurial Educator certificate program, assisting in grant development, and managing business partnerships. Ms. Wingard earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Stanford University and a Master of Arts degree in Instructional Technology from San Jose State University. She has been certified to teach in three states. Ms. Wingard enjoys yoga, dance, and the performing arts.