Athens State University recently honored two outstanding faculty members at the 2023 Honors Convocation. For more than 10 years, the University has recognized contributions of exceptional faculty through the Teaching Excellence Award and the Distinguished Scholarly and Creative Works Award. These awards are sponsored by the Athens State University Foundation, and nominations are received from students, faculty, and administrators who recognize faculty members who go above and beyond in their teaching and scholarly work.
Dr. Kimberly Jack received the 2023 Teaching Excellence Award. This award recognizes a full-time faculty member who is distinguished by truly outstanding performance in the classroom. Dr. Jack joined the University in 2013 as an Assistant Professor and now holds the rank of Associate Professor. She holds a Bachelor’s degree, a Master’s degree and a Doctorate in English and is currently pursuing an additional Master’s in Religious Studies at Athens State.
She was called “a rare and exemplary educator that inspires both students and colleagues to achieve greatness as scholars” by students and faculty members, and was also praised for her passion as an educator and the way she ensures that all of her students feel welcome and safe in her classes.
Mr. Jamie Adams received the 2023 Distinguished Scholarly and Creative Works Award. This award recognizes a full-time faculty member whose University career is distinguished by truly outstanding scholarly or creative works. Mr. Adams joined the University in 2019 as an Assistant Professor and now holds the rank of Associate Professor. He holds a Bachelor’s degree and a Master’s degree in Fine Arts.
Adams’ work has been exhibited in many national and regional museums and galleries and has received many awards throughout the United States. He has also served as a juror, a guest speaker, visiting lecturer, and visiting artist. Nominators commended him for the wealth of knowledge he possesses, his ability to connect with his students, and his exceptional talent for teaching both simple and advanced concepts.