Four Recognized As Transforming Lives Faculty Fellows

Four College of Education and Human Development faculty members have been selected as Transforming Lives Faculty Fellows. Drs. Sharon Matthews (TLAC), Michael Sandlin (HLKN), Karen Smith (EAHR), and Jay Woodward (EPSY) will each be recognized for their promotion of transformative learning for their students.

“These faculty members have made a commitment to engaging students with transformational learning in and out of the classroom, “said CEHD Dean Dr. Joyce Alexander. “Their work has positively impacted countless students and will continue to do so.”

Dr. Sharon Matthews leads an undergraduate peer mentoring program, with students who have been hand-picked for their exceptional writing skills. The mentors then work with their fellow Aggie undergraduates to offer feedback on their writing, model good writing habits, and provide support and encouragement.

Dr. Michael Sandlin has been active in promoting global education and among Community Health and Allied Health students. He has led trips to Germany, London, and Austria, among other locations.

Dr. Karen Smith is the undergraduate coordinator in EAHR. In addition to her exceptional instruction in the classroom, she has led curricular redesign efforts and revised the internship program to more effectively enhance the learning of human resource development and technology management students.

Dr. Jay Woodward promotes a variety of high impact learning experiences. He has partnered with colleges across the University to lead trips to Costa Rica, Italy, and New York City. He also directs the Youth Adventure Program, which is a series of one-week courses designed to encourage career exploration among gifted and talented students.

Dr. George Cunningham, associate dean for academic affairs added, “High impact learning experiences result in deeper learning, enhanced critical thinking, social and personal responsibility, and improved communications. These are skills that will allow our students to be lifelong learners and these faculty members are instrumental in ensuring their success.”

Each Transforming Lives Faculty Fellow will receive a $2500 professional development stipend. They will be recognized in front of their peers at the Fall 2017 CEHD Kickoff Luncheon.