Celebrating Al Dunkleman’s Legacy: A Journey of Second Chances and New Beginnings
Allen “Al” Dunkleman has spent more than two decades fostering a love for learning and encouraging students to persevere, no matter their background or challenges. A Sociology instructor at Cleveland Community College since 2002, he is preparing for his last day in the classroom, at least as a full-time instructor. He’s making a “vocational transition” (he doesn’t like the word retirement) at the end of this year.
Al’s story is one of resilience and determination. At 36, he found himself at a crossroads, feeling that he “didn’t have the right stuff” for college. That all changed when a retired educator from his church stepped in. The educator, not taking no for an answer, called Al one day and announced he was picking him up and driving him to Virginia Highlands Community College where the retired educator introduced Al to faculty and counselors. He ensured that Al was enrolled in his first three classes before they left. That was the spark Al needed.
Working full-time and taking night classes, Al completed his two-year degree over four years, a journey that ignited his love for learning. Over a period of about 11 years, Al earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees. “Sometimes, it takes more determination than IQ,” he says, reflecting on the long journey that eventually brought him to CCC.
For Al, community college is not just a stepping stone—it is a place of hope. “The community college in Virginia gave me a second chance to make a first impression,” he shares.
Inspired by the mentors who supported him during his own education, Al made it his mission to do the same for his students. “I had so many instructors who helped pull me up,” he says. “That’s what I’m trying to do, reach down and pull these kids up.” He hopes to carry that philosophy forward even as he retires.
He has big plans. Among them is to build a space where he hopes to teach young people the joy of working with their hands. Using reclaimed wood and other materials, Al envisions small groups of kids learning to use their hands and build something, like birdhouses with license-plate roofs. He wants to inspire young people to find the same excitement he felt as a child making things. “I’m returning to my childhood, and I want to help kids get excited about making things,” he says with a smile.
Al has seen incredible changes over his years in education, from the rise of technology to shifting classroom dynamics. Reflecting on the challenges of modern teaching, he notes, “Keeping up with technology has been the biggest challenge.” From computers to online learning platforms like Blackboard, he has adapted, though he admits that if he could just teach without the tech, he would. He credits many of his colleagues with helping him learn new skills along the way.
One of his most cherished memories comes from the fall of 2020, when he taught a small group of high school seniors during a challenging, pandemic-era semester. Masked and socially distanced, Al developed a close bond with the class, who had been together since kindergarten. “They were some of the sweetest kids,” he recalls fondly. On the last day, all the girls hugged him, and the boys shook his hand—a simple but heartfelt gesture of appreciation that left a lasting impression. As he steps into this new chapter, Al Dunkleman leaves behind a powerful legacy at CCC. His story—one of second chances, resilience, and unyielding commitment to his students—will continue to inspire generations of learners. With plans to build his woodworking center and teach evening classes for adults at the Arts Council, Al’s journey in education is far from over. “It’s surreal to think it’s time,” he says of his upcoming retirement. And though he may be stepping away from the classroom, he’ll always be a teacher at heart, ready to reach down and pull up the next generation.