Instructors, staff member of the year named

Posted 5/4/12

SEDALIA—State Fair Community College today honored the top instructor, adjunct instructor and staff member for 2011-2012 in a 3 p.m. ceremony in the Yeater Learning Center.

Lisa Adams, English instructor, was named instructor of the year; John Chappell, computer networking instructor,was named adjunct instructor of the year; and Julie Crawshaw, instructional resource coordinator for the Academic Success Center, was named staff member of the year.

Students nominated all candidates, and a panel of students, faculty and staff chose the winners.

Three students nominated Adams for instructor of the year. One said Adams is the first teacher who really motivated her to learn, and said she always gets the class involved in discussions. Another said Adams has a passion for the subject matter she teaches, shares her wisdom with students and is always encouraging.

Other students called Adams caring, understanding, helpful, enthusiastic, intelligent, and approachable. Several students said Adams’ ability to explain themes and ideas in literature had opened their minds to new ideas. “Every time I come to class, I can’t wait to see what we are learning next,” said one student.

Five students nominated Chappell for adjunct instructor of the year. Students said Chappell is a great teacher whose teaching style makes learning fun. One called him modest, caring, intelligent, and “the most informative instructor I’ve ever had.” Another said Chappell is the epitome of an excellent instructor who freely gives his time to whomever needs advice or help. “He is always at work even before his classes start, and his door is never closed,” said one student. “He is dedicated to the success of all students, and is flexible in his teaching style to accommodate each of our different learning styles.”

Students said Crawshaw is a wonderful person who brings great enthusiasm to her job and creates a pleasant learning environment that enhances their ability to learn. She works well with students to help them understand the material. They called her a person of integrity whose willingness to help students succeed is exceptional.

Photos of the honorees are displayed in the Yeater Learning Center lobby. They also received plaques and will be recognized May 18 at commencement.