Faculty Achievement Awards presented at Annual Convocation of Scholars ceremony
JONESBORO – Four faculty members at Arkansas State University were recognized during a Convocation of Scholars ceremony today for their exceptional achievements, professionalism and contributions to the university.
Dr. Jerry Ball, Dr. Rich Grippo, Dr. Zahid Hossain and Dr. Philip Tew were named recipients of the Faculty Achievement Awards for 2013‑14.
“This is a special time in our academic community when we honor and celebrate the academic excellence of our faculty and recognize them for their tireless work with our students,” commented Dr. Lynita Cooksey, provost and vice chancellor for Academic Affairs. “We are fortunate at Arkansas State to have so many faculty members worthy of selection, which adds to the prestige of these individual achievements.”
She also expressed appreciation to the university committee that reviews nominations from professional colleagues and makes the final selections for the faculty awards.
- Jerry Ball received the award for “Excellence in Academic Advising.” A member of the faculty at Arkansas State since 1990, Ball completed his Ph.D. at the University of Tennessee. He is professor of English in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences.
- Rich Grippo received the award for “Excellence in Teaching.” He is professor of environmental biology in the College of Sciences and Mathematics, and completed his Ph.D. at Pennsylvania State University. Grippo has been a member of the A-State faculty since 1995.
- Zahid Hossain received the award for “Excellence in Scholarship” for his research into the use of novel paving materials. He is an assistant professor of civil engineering in the College of Engineering. Hossain, who completed his Ph.D. at the University of Oklahoma, joined the A-State faculty in 2012.
- Philip Tew received the award for “Excellence in Professional Service.” He is an assistant professor of finance in the College of Business. Tew completed his Ph.D. at the University of Mississippi and joined the A‑State faculty in 2009.
“Our success in achieving our highest priority – the education of our next generation of leaders – is linked to the efforts of our faculty,” said Dr. Tim Hudson, chancellor. “Saluting our outstanding faculty in teaching, advising, scholarship and service rewards those who have gone above and beyond in our core mission of service to our students.”
The award winners were announced during the annual Faculty Honors Convocation, a highlight of the 36th annual Convocation of Scholars events. Also, 21 retiring faculty members were recognized for their contributions during their career with Arkansas State.
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