| Button HTML | Email Address | Faculty Photo | Scholars Profile or Faculty Profile Link | First Name | Last Name | Title | Office Phone Number | Office Location | Campus | College(s) | Department(s) | Brief Bio | Teaching Philosophy | Education & Academic Qualification #1 | Education & Academic Qualification #2 | Education & Academic Qualification #3 | Education & Academic Qualification #4 | Education & Academic Qualification #5 | Research Interests #1 | Research Interests #2 | Research Interests #3 | Research Interests #4 | Research Interests #5 | Research Lab and Centers |
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| abrunson@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/cah/africana/wp-content/uploads/sites/17/brunson.jpg | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/alicia-brunson-2 | Alicia | Brunson | Associate Professor | 912-344-3469 | University Hall 223 | Armstrong Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Sociology & Anthropology | Alicia Brunson is an assistant professor of Sociology. Her research focuses on racial ideologies among college students, Black student retention, and the politics of representation in creative industries. Dr. Brunson practices engaged pedagogy and teaches her students how to participate in community action research for positive social change. Her recent publications include “Disrupting White Fragility and Colorblind Racism: Using Games to Measure How Race and Ethnicity Courses Change Students’ Racial Ideologies,” in Race and Pedagogy Journal: Teaching and Learning for Justice and Prejudice in the Press? Investigating Bias in Coverage of Race, Gender, Sexuality and Religion. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy centers on fostering an inclusive and engaging learning environment where students are encouraged to think critically and apply their knowledge to real-world challenges. I believe in the power of active learning and strive to create a classroom atmosphere that promotes collaboration, curiosity, and continuous growth. |
| M.S., University of North Texas, 2007 | B.S., Kansas State University, 2005 | Research Interests
| Social Sciences | Ideologies | Portrayal | Race Relation | Center for Africana Studies | |||
| bharris@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?hl=en&user=IgWEstIAAAAJ&view_op=list_works&gmla=ALUCkoUmIjSE846MJ8ZpETrZ8pfgVRsN0NEyTybJLcoMzbAut6WWejAp-MbgRffSi0qDPtW4GCfYhxQE4EUSI2Na | Brandonn | Harris | Interim Department Chair and Professor of Sport and Exercise Psychology | 912-478-7900 | Hollis Building 1103C | Statesboro Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Department of Health Science & Kinesiology | Dr. Brandonn Harris currently serves as the Interim Chair and Professor of Sport and Exercise Psychology in the Department of Health Sciences and Kinesiology. He is a Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC), a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a National Certified Counselor (NCC), is listed on the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee’s (USOPC) Sport Psychology Registry and Mental Health Registry, and was named a Fellow for the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP) in 2022. Brandonn enjoys maintaining a very active involvement in various sport psychology professional communities. During his 21 years as a member of AASP, he has served on the Certification Council and was Chair for 2 years of his 5-year term in that group. He also served on AASP’s Ethics Committee for 9 years and as Chair for 4 of those years, in addition to serving as the former coordinator of the Youth Sport Special Interest Group. He also previously taught the AASP-sponsored ethics course. Brandonn is a Past-President for Division 47 of the American Psychological Association: The Society for Sport, Exercise, and Performance Psychology and served in two other executive committee roles for this organization prior to his term as President. At Georgia Southern, he has taught undergraduate and graduate courses in the areas of ethical issues in sport psychology, psychological aspects of peak performance, sport and exercise psychology interventions, team dynamics in sport, and supervised graduate students’ practica and internships in sport and exercise psychology. Brandonn is a founding member of the Georgia Southern Athletics Mental Performance Team, which is comprised of practitioners and administrators in sports medicine, counseling services, and sport psychology with the goal of providing comprehensive, holistic, and collaborative mental health and optimal mental training services to student-athletes and athletic department stakeholders. He currently serves as the Co-Director of Mental Training for South Georgia Tormenta FC, a team in the USL1 professional soccer league. As a practitioner, he utilizes an integrational approach to mental skills training and clinical mental health work drawing from various frameworks to ensure his clients receive the care and support that best suits their interests and needs. He continues to consult and serve numerous professional and collegiate athletes and teams, youth athletes, parents, and coaches on a variety of sport psychology-related topics. As a researcher, he has conducted and published several book chapters, peer-reviewed publications, and delivered numerous national and international presentations. | Teaching PhilosophyI have spent considerable time and effort developing my longstanding commitment to excellence in teaching. I have taught numerous undergraduate and graduate courses in the areas of sport and exercise psychology, research methods, and statistics. For all of my courses, I integrate a balance of theory, research, and applied/practical components to provide students with a multifaceted classroom experience. My teaching experiences have included “traditional” classroom formats, online courses, and an integration of both formats within individual courses. In my continued effort to create a dynamic course environment while addressing the various types of learning styles that students prefer, I strive to utilize a variety of teaching practices and assessment procedures in each of my courses. These include small group discussions, in-class activities, videos, readings from current texts or relevant articles, lectures, exams, reaction/reflection papers, presentations, case studies, and article critiques. In addition to these varied teaching approaches, I have made a point to incorporate technology in my courses to develop creative and innovative teaching methods that enhance the learning environment and classroom experience, whether an online or on-campus course. |
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| kspears@georgiasouthern.edu | Karen | Spears | 912-478-2123 | Hollis 1128A | Statesboro Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Department of Health Science & Kinesiology | Clinical Instructor, Director of the Master of Foods and Nutrition and Dietetic Internship Program at Georgia Southern University. I have worked in various clinical settings and developed clinical programs (such as home infusion and osteoporosis clinic). I assisted in research at USDA Beltsville Human Nutrition Research Center and the University of Nevada, Reno. Research emphases were clinical epidemiology, nutrition assessment, and intervention impact assessment. | Teaching PhilosophyNutrition is an ever-evolving field of science; therefore, my goal is to ignite curiosity, provide the theoretical underpinnings for nutrition concepts, offer application opportunities (bridging theory to practice), and furnish experiences for students to practice the art of critical thinking and effective communication. In addition, we learn from each other. So, it is vital to create a safe environment that allows for bold, productive, and inclusive conversations. |
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| lili@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/li-li-2 | Li | Li | Research Professor | 912-478-0200 | Hollis 0107C | Statesboro Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Department of Health Science & Kinesiology | As a faculty member in Biomechanics, I worked at Louisiana State University from 1998 to 2012 and at Georgia Southern University from 2012 to now. I have taught undergraduate and graduate biomechanics and related classes. My research is focused on neuromuscular control of human movement in health and pathological conditions. Past research projects have been supported by contracts, foundations, and local and federal governments. | Teaching PhilosophyTeaching should be learner-focused. The best teaching fits the learner's goal and ability and motivates the learner to optimize their learning capacity. |
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| bmelton@georgiasouthern.edu | Bridget | Melton | Professor of Exercise Science | 912-478-1973 | Hollis 1127 | Statesboro Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Department of Health Science & Kinesiology | Dr. Bridget Melton, EdD, ACSM EP-C, NSCA CSCS, FMS-2, is a distinguished Professor of Exercise Science at Georgia Southern University, boasting over two decades of dedicated service to the field. With a focus on promoting physical activity among diverse populations, particularly within tactical contexts, Dr. Melton has authored over 100 peer-reviewed publications and delivered over 200 presentations worldwide. Her impact extends beyond academia, as evidenced by her collaborations with local and state-level fire service and law enforcement agencies, aiming to enhance health and wellness outcomes. Notably, she has led groundbreaking initiatives, including a FEMA grant with the University of Kentucky to evaluate embedded providers in fire service and collaborations with esteemed institutions like the Georgia Public Safety Training Center and the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center. Dr. Melton's leadership extends to her affiliations with prominent organizations such as the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), and the National Association of Kinesiology in Higher Education, solidifying her reputation as a leader and influencer in her field. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy is surrounded by the idea that everyone needs to be equipped with both the knowledge and skills to make healthy behavioral choices. One’s personal health is the summation of one's own health choices. I try to instill this philosophy in my students, essentially educating them on how their choices (positive or negative) will directly impact their overall health. I also try to use my philosophies to inspire my graduate teaching assistants to help guide them as they educate others on health topics. |
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| abigailcjohnson@georgiasouthern.edu | Abigail | Johnson | Lecturer of Anatomy and Physiology | 912-478-0133 | Hollis Building 1119A | Statesboro Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Department of Health Science & Kinesiology | Abigail C. Johnson is a Double Eagle alum of Georgia Southern University and Lecturer of Anatomy and Physiology in the Department of Health Sciences & Kinesiology. Ms. Johnson teaches undergraduate anatomy and physiology courses. | Teaching PhilosophyMy philosophy is that the educator has the understanding and desire to create an environment that allows students to be held accountable while supporting their growth and educational development. I believe that the educator is responsible for more than just supplying knowledge relating to the coursework in a field of study. Rather, it is their moral obligation to be a guiding hand in the development of the young minds who will continue to shape the future in a positive manner. My philosophy can be broken down into three descriptive categories of Conceptualizations, Relations and Applications. As an educator, my goal is to continually create an environment that is host to four essential elements. This can be accomplished through Guidance, Autonomy, Reflection & Discovery. As an educator, I value communicative relationships and believe this cannot be achieved without Communication, Empathy & Acceptance. As an educator, it is important that I am Informed, Aware & Prepared. This combination allows me to create an encouraging environment where students have autonomy in their educational experiences but also understand that they have someone in their corner to support them along the way. |
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| vrawool@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/vishakha-rawool | Vishakha | Rawool | Associate Dean for Research | 912-478-1158 | Ashmore Hall, Room 131-A, Armstrong; Hollis 1121-B, Statesboro | Armstrong Campus, Statesboro Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Department of Clinical Science | Vishakha Rawool, Ph.D., CCC-A is the author of two widely used textbooks, numerous funded research publications, and an expert guest speaker at national and international conferences. She is a trilingual and highly experienced clinician. Her experiences include serving as a faculty member, department chair, journal section editor, and associate dean. She is the recipient of the Outstanding Researcher Award from the College of Education and Human Services, at West Virginia University. She was presented with the Dr. S. R. Chandrasekhar (Dr. SRCISH) Travel Fellowship of the Indian Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ISHA), in 2016 in recognition of excellent contribution, talent & service in the field of audiology. | Teaching PhilosophyMost students can rise to the challenges posed by their professors although not all students are initially fully aware of this capability. Keeping this in mind, I challenge, motivate, and guide students to master the relevant concepts. I engage students in the learning process through text, journal articles, case studies, case simulations, probe questions, and collaborative discussions to promote comprehension of the material and the ability to apply the information to real-life scenarios. I also provide personal feedback to students to meet any individual needs and to ensure the success of all students. I maximize the use of current technological tools to ensure learning efficiency. |
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| dbotnaru@georgiasouthern.edu | Diana | Botnaru | Professor, Human Anatomy and Physiology | 912-478-5456 | Armstrong 154J | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Department of Health Science & Kinesiology | Dr. Diana Botnaru is a professor of Human Anatomy and Physiology with over 20 years of teaching experience. Specializing in the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL), Dr. Botnaru mentored numerous faculty helping to design, implement and disseminate their SoTL projects both individually and within Faculty Learning Communities. She is actively engaged in a plethora of collaborative SoTL projects that have resulted in over 100 peer-reviewed presentations and 24 scholarly publications. Dr. Botnaru chairs the SoTL Commons Annual Conference (2013-present) and the SoTL Advisory Board at the Faculty Center (2023-present). She is the recipient of the GS SoTL Fellowship (2012), GS SoTL Award (2012), GS Award for Excellence in Instruction (2020), Wates College of Health Profession Excellence in Teaching Award (2009, 2018 and 2024), University System of Georgia Chancellor’s Learning Scholar (2019-2021) and University System of Georgia Regents’ SoTL Award (2014). | Teaching PhilosophyLearning theorists have provided us with a set of ideas about how people learn. Since learning is dynamic and students are different, all of these theories intertwine to achieve optimal learning. Research has found that the brain plays a role in learning; the way the learning environment is constructed makes a difference; that learning is based on the associations or connections we make; learning occurs in particular social and cultural environments, and finally, that the different ways people think and feel about their own learning affects their development as learners. We, as teachers, can use learning theories to guide us in our teaching practice and to facilitate learning by using a variety of strategies. I believe that students are central in my career as a teacher, and my goal is to promote student learning and see my students succeed. I teach a foundational class for allied health majors, which is reported as “difficult” and “very difficult” by students. However, Human Anatomy and Physiology classes are also building blocks for future clinical decisions in nursing, athletic training, nutrition, community health and exercise science careers. I follow the best teaching practices and provide my students with well-defined learning outcomes for each topic, align assignments to support the learning outcomes, provide study guides to facilitate learning and communicate often to keep them on track. Diana Laurillard claims in her book Rethinking University Teaching (1993) that “teachers need to know more than just their subject. They need to know the ways it can come to be understood, the ways it could be misunderstood; they need to know how individuals experience the subject”. I realize that all my students are different and I use multiple teaching strategies in the classroom. Most importantly, I strive to help students learn new and often difficult material by explicitly discussing learning strategies, providing them with opportunities for retrieval and application of knowledge and by modeling these strategies in the design of my courses. My hope is to serve as a role model for learning and reflection on teaching and impart my dedication for life-long learning to students and other faculty. |
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| jacksimmons@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/cah/philosophy/current-faculty-staff/jack-simmons/ | Jack | Simmons | Professor | 912-344-2653 | Gamble 203 | Armstrong Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of Philosophy & Religious Studies | Jack Simmons was born in California. He attended university in Louisiana, Pennsylvania and Germany and now resides in Savannah, Georgia with his wife Katherine and his children, Savannah, Mary and Augustus. He is a professor of philosophy at Georgia Southern University, and when not surfing at Tybee or sailing on the Forest River, he likes to enjoy a Sazerac cocktail. | Teaching PhilosophyDoing is learning. |
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| colson@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/christina-olson | Christina | Olson | Associate Professor of Creative Writing (Department of English) | 912-478-0124 | 2221C Newton Building | Statesboro Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of English | Christina Olson is the author of The Anxiety Workbook, published by the University of Pittsburgh Press’s Pitt Poetry Series, and named the finalist for Georgia Author of the Year Award in 2024. Her chapbook The Last Mastodon, based on her time as poet-in-residence at the Western Science Center in Hemet, CA, won the 2019 Rattle Chapbook Prize.Her poetry & creative nonfiction has appeared in more than a hundred magazines & journals, including The Atlantic, Brevity, DIAGRAM, Fourth Genre, Gastronomica, The Nation, The Normal School, Poetry Daily, Scientific American, Verse Daily, Virginia Quarterly Review, and The Best Creative Nonfiction, Volume Three. | Teaching PhilosophyAs an instructor of writing, particularly creative writing, I am guided by a teaching philosophy that emphasizes process as well as product. I construct my courses so that students leave the classroom with a set of writing skills that will transfer to disciplines and fields beyond creative writing. Thus, in any of my courses, students learn and practice not only the writing process and creation of genre-specific creative writing artifacts, but also how to articulate their artistic choices and motivations to a variety of audiences. In short, students write and learn how to talk about writing. |
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| rterry@georgiasouthern.edu | Robert | Terry | Associate Professor | 912-344-3606 | Gamble 239 | Armstrong Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of English | Robert Terry teaches primarily technical and professional writing at Georgia Southern, drawing from his first career in information technology (1994-2002) and his training at the University of Louisville as well as his ongoing research into evolving professional communication strategies. He also teaches courses in digital storytelling, sequential storytelling/comics, and other areas. | Teaching PhilosophyI believe that the best method for learning how rhetorical genres operate is to try to simulate their context in which they operate, so whenever possible, my courses use a project-based learning approach that feed into projects that can develop in stages over an entire semester. |
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| bfeske@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/brent-d-feske-2 | Brent | Feske | Interim Associate Vice President of Research and Economic Development | 912-344-3210 | SC 1505 | Armstrong Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biochemistry, Chemistry & Physics | Brent D. Feske is a professor of Chemistry at Georgia Southern University, where he specializes in bioorganic chemistry in the Department of Biochemistry, Chemistry and Physics. With a strong commitment to research, he has contributed significantly to the field of biocatalysis and the asymmetric synthesis of pharmaceutical precursors. Feske is dedicated to fostering student engagement and promoting innovative learning practices in his courses. He is also very active in the American Chemical Society and currently serves as chair elect for the Southeastern Region of the American Chemical Society. Dr. Feske currently serves as the Interim Associate Vice President of Research and Economic Development at Georgia Southern. | Teaching PhilosophyFeske is dedicated to fostering student engagement and promoting innovative learning practices in his courses. |
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| jmgendelman@georgiasouthern.edu | Martín | Gendelman | Professor | 912-478-7903 | Foy Building | Statesboro Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Fred & Dinah Gretsch School of Music | The creative work of Martín Gendelman (b.1976) touches on both the acoustic and electronic domains and includes compositions for solo performer, chamber groups, and orchestra, as well as cross-disciplinary works and installations (primarily with dance, video, and theater). Over the past twenty years, his music has been performed across the Americas, Europe, and the Middle East. He has collaborated with many acclaimed performers and ensembles such as the Da Capo Chamber Players (USA), Meitar Ensemble (Israel), Galan Trio (Greece), Tambor Fantasma (Argentina), Jorge Variego (Argentina/USA), Lee Hinkle (USA), Adrianne Munden-Dixon (USA/Canada), and Valentín Garvie (Argentina/Germany) to name a few. Currently, he is Professor of Music and Head of the Composition and Music Theory area at the Fred and Dinah Gretsch School of Music at Georgia Southern University. His music has been released by Neuma Records, CMMAS, and the University of Idaho and his music scores are distributed by the French-based BabelScores. | Teaching PhilosophyI have long believed that art has the power to change a person. One is rarely the same individual after listening to Beethoven or Bach for the first time, or becoming acquainted with the masterpieces of Michelangelo or Picasso. I believe that education has a similar power: a good teacher will transform the way a student thinks and, consequently, the way that student views the world. As an educator, my ultimate goal is to open the minds of my students by challenging the way they see the world. I try to do this meticulously and in an honest manner. By connecting new information to students’ prior knowledge and experiences, learning becomes meaningful and extends beyond the classroom. At the same time, I try to share my passion for music and learning by serving as a role model in regard to attitudes and habits that students should acquire. I know students may not remember many details of the information I presented to them a few years after taking my classes. But, if I have succeeded at challenging and inspiring them, the impact of my teaching will be profound and durable. I am pleased, therefore, to work at a university that fosters a “culture of engagement” in its very mission, as challenging and inspiring teaching cannot happen without it. In addition to this, I believe profoundly in the bidirectional nature of the teaching process: when I teach my students, I am learning too. |
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| sksmith@georgiasouthern.edu | Solomon | Smith | Associate Professor | 912-478-5742 | 2002, Interdisciplinary Academic Building | Statesboro Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of History | Solomon K. Smith is an Associate Professor of Early American History and the American Revolution at Georgia Southern University since 2005. He teaches the U.S. Survey class as well as courses on Colonial America, First Contact, Military History, The Global Seven Years War, The Golden Age of Piracy in the Americas, the American Revolution and The History of Baseball. A native of Texas, he earned his Ph.D. in the history at the University of Georgia in 2009 and has authored several journal articles on both teaching and historical subjects. | Teaching PhilosophyMy role as a teacher and a scholar are interdependent with my service to the university and the community. I put great value on the development of critical thinking skills amongst my students. Ultimately, I hope to teach my students to understand and make persuasive arguments about complex issues that are relevant to present conditions as well as those in the past. I have found that students are able to improve their analytical skills to their highest potential when they are actively engaged in a wide range of classroom and outside exercises that call on their reading, writing, listening, analytical, and verbal abilities. I constantly try to push the boundaries of my students’ knowledge and comfort levels on a wide range of subjects in the hopes of giving them the ability to see subjects and complex issues from a multitude of angles. I seek to instill a sense of wonder in my students and hope to awake in them a love of learning, a striving for knowledge. Simultaneously, I seek to create an atmosphere of trust and respect in the classroom to enable students to ask questions about a variety of historical perspectives and methodologies.Primary readings, scholarly essays, and monographs form the core of my course readings and classroom exercises. I have found that students reflect more thoroughly on these texts when they develop questions about the materials while completing the reading. I organize my class discussions around themes so that the students and I are better able to develop a context for the readings; helping the student make sense of them in their own time-frame as well as our own. By immersing students in primary sources, I have found that they are better able to form their own opinions about the issues being raised in textbooks and lectures. But I do not think it is enough just to peruse the documents, I want my students to understand how they were created, to know what historians do with them, and why? Regardless of class size, I try to make group discussions a centerpiece of my teaching style. My students have consistently responded positively to discussion, claiming it encourages them to take in consideration the views of their classmates as well as to think more precisely about the course materials. I routinely require students to carry out debates and to present primary documents, scholarly essays, and books to their classmates. During these presentations, students must provide their own interpretations of the materials and they are responsible for leading the subsequent classroom discussions. I provide additional contextual information when necessary during these exercises, but I mostly encourage the students to engage in debate on their own. During lectures, I frequently ask questions and solicit opinions from students so that they are engage with the learning process. My students often comment that this style keeps them more involved in lectures as well as encouraging them to feel more comfortable with debate and discussion as a basic fact of the course. |
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| mrhall@georgiasouthern.edu | Michael | Hall | Professor of History | 912-344-2978 | Hawes Hall 106A | Armstrong Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of History | Michael R. Hall [Ph.D. Ohio University, 1996] has been teaching on the Armstrong Campus since 1997. His publications include Sugar and Power in the Dominican Republic (2000), the Historical Dictionary of Haiti (2012), numerous book chapters and journal articles, and dozens of book reviews and encyclopedia articles. Recent book chapters include “Castro and Cabral: Cuban Assistance in the Struggle for Independence in Guinea-Bissau and Cabo Verde” in Fidel Castro and Africa’s Liberation Struggle (2020) and “Ricardo Pittini: Roman Catholic Archbishop of Santo Domingo (1935-1961)” in The Italian Legacy in the Dominican Republic: History, Architecture, Economics, Society (2021). During the 1980s, he was a US Peace Corps volunteer assigned to the Ministry of Education in the Dominican Republic. He is the book review editor of the Journal of Global South Studies. | Teaching PhilosophyThe use of primary source documents will help students develop their own interpretation of history and make informed opinions. Special emphasis will be placed on the important cultural changes and developments – especially as they relate to food. Food is an important cultural factor that impacts history. This should enable students to better understand the historical roots of contemporary society, be it their own or of other civilizations. |
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| channa@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/christan-hanna | Chris | Hanna | Associate Professor of Sport Management | 912-478-8013 | Hollis 2118A | Statesboro Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Department of Health Science & Kinesiology | Dr. Hanna was one of the sport industry’s most accomplished sport marketing professionals prior to earning his Ph.D. in Sport Administration from the University of Louisville then joining Georgia Southern University. His 15 years in intercollegiate athletics make him one of the most industry experienced Sport Management professors in the field. Among Dr. Hanna’s top accomplishments in Sport Marketing are leading the University of Illinois to the most National Association of Collegiate Marketing Administrators (NACMA) Awards over a five-year stretch in which Illinois led the Big Ten Conference in NACMA Awards in four of five years. He helped Illinois double season ticket sales, attendance, and football revenue in just two years—the only time this is believed to have been accomplished at any school in Big Ten Conference history. He helped Illinois sell out four games in consecutive seasons for the first time in 20 years and helped Western Michigan University sell out three games in one season for the only time in WMU history. He created some of the most memorable events in Illinois history including the pink shirt Illini Madness event that established a school record, hosted more than 50,000 fans for the World’s Biggest Basketball Practice, and worked with Bruce Weber to create A Night of Legends featuring two Illinois Final Four teams separated by more than a decade. Dr. Hanna is entering his ninth year at GSU, having earned tenure and promotion to Associate Professor. He has taught 17 different SMGT courses, teaching at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Dr. Hanna enters the 2024-25 academic year with 12 publications and others working their way through the system. His peer-reviewed work is published in the International Journal of Sport Communications, Communication and Sport, Legal Aspects of Sport, Journal of Contemporary Athletics, Journal of Sport Behavior, Journal of African American Studies, and Quinnipiac Law Review among others. Dr. Hanna has 32 peer-reviewed oral academic conference presentations to his credit entering 2024-25. He is a regular presenter at the North American Society of Sport Management (NASSM) Conference where he has presented on nine occasions while also serving as a NASSM abstract reviewer three times. Hanna’s college practical sports background and academic research interests have led him to present at College Sport Research Institute (CSRI), the top college sport conference, 11 times. His Sport Law research interests have led him to present at the Sport and Recreation Law Association (SRLA) conference 6 times. | Teaching PhilosophyI believe the faculty member has an obligation to prepare all students as if they are going to need the information shared in the classroom in their professional career. While I am interested in helping the students achieve their academic goals, I am equally or more interested in making sure that when they leave my classroom the student has been given and assessed on their knowledge of information they will need to succeed in the field. This is a point of emphasis in my classrooms and something my students appreciate. I believe the faculty member should respect each student and provide a forum that allows for a comfortable exchange of ideas. Rather than talking at the students for the full course time in session after session, I strongly encourage and receive participation from the students. This creates a more lively and comfortable classroom which leads to the sharing of diverse thought and opinion. This creates a well-rounded classroom experience that more closely mimics the team environment found in the Sport Management industry.I believe the faculty member has an obligation to enter the classroom prepared and ready to pass on important information. I prepared myself by working in the field for 15 years prior to earning my Ph.D. in Sport Management. That preparation continues as I follow current events related to Sport Management, review journal articles, and conduct peer-reviewed research. All of this contributes to my ongoing education, which makes me a better teacher. I believe the faculty member should make notes during the course of each semester that can improve the class in future offerings. Seemingly small refinements to the syllabus and/or the presentation of class material can make a big difference. My students have noticed changes I have made from one semester to the next. They appreciate the fact I take their feedback seriously.I believe the faculty member should bring the material to life with real world examples when possible. Semester after semester my high teacher evaluation scores and positive comments from students are the result of the fact I bring current events to the classroom which brings the textbook material to life and adds life to the classroom. While it takes additional time for me to recreate significant portions of a class from one semester to the next to account for current events, the students notice and appreciate the effort.Finally, I believe the faculty member should focus first on teaching the students the information they need to successful in industry before being concerned about student grades. This includes making sure students have the writing experience and understanding of proper writing that is required for success in business. Therefore, I will always make sure my courses emphasize the most critical topics students will practically utilize in their careers in order to best prepare them to obtain a job and keep a job. |
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| bwarsaw@georgiasouthern.edu | Benjamin | Warsaw | Professor | 912-344-2823 | Fine Arts 121 | Armstrong Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Fred & Dinah Gretsch School of Music | American pianist, Dr. Benjamin Warsaw is a classical pianist, composer, teacher, and accompanist, and performs solo and ensemble concerts throughout North America. At Georgia Southern University, he teaches piano and other music-related courses and is founder and Artistic Director of the concert series, Piano in the Arts. In 2015, Dr. Warsaw released his debut album, Warsaw plays Warsaw, featuring a set of 24 Preludes of original music for piano. He was honored to have been selected as Georgia Music Teacher’s Association’s 2017 composer of the year for which he wrote Microcosms, a collection of short piano pieces for the developing pianist. Dr. Warsaw is an ASCAP composer. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teacher, Maestra Rebecca Penneys, once told me: Sound is the carrier of emotion. I have come to learn that what the audience hears from my playing is a true expression of myself— “my voice.” Through focused, disciplined practice, we can clearly communicate emotions to our listeners which words cannot express. My goal is to teach my students these techniques, help them find “their voice” at the piano, and enable to them to create music with ease and delight. |
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| cherringer@georgiasouthern.edu | Carol Engelhardt | Herringer | Professor of History | 912-344-3349 | IAB 3094 | Statesboro Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of History | Carol Engelhardt Herringer is Professor of History at Georgia Southern University. She has served as chair of that department (2019-2024) and as chair of the Department of History at Wright State University, Dayton, Ohio (2010-2016). She is the author of Victorians and the Virgin Mary: Religion and Gender in England 1830-85 (Manchester UP, 2008) and a number of articles and essays on Victorian religion and culture, as well as the co-editor of Edward Bouverie Pusey and the Oxford Movement (Anthem, 2012). She is currently working on a book project on the cultural significance of debates over the Eucharist in the Victorian Church of England. She teaches HIST 1112: World History II, undergraduate courses on British history and vampires in history and culture, as well as graduate courses on the Decorative Arts and 19th century British history. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy is simple: to give students, at whatever level, the appropriate tools and skills to discover, analyze, and use historical information. This means that I ask them to read closely, to understand historical debates, and to know the major discussions and thinkers in the area we are studying. I also ask students to write frequently, so that they can work out their ideas and present a convincing argument to others. While few of my students will choose a career as a professional historian, all will benefit from knowing how to research, read carefully, think critically, and write cogently and persuasively. |
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| billallison@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.profbillallison.com/ | Bill | Allison | Professor of Military History | 912-541-3172 | IAB 3006 | Statesboro Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of History | Bill Allison is a scholar of American military history, specifically the Vietnam War. He is a Professor of History at Georgia Southern University, joining the faculty there as Chair of the Department of History in 2008. After earning a BA and MA in History at East Texas State University in 1989 and 1991, he completed his PhD in history at Bowling Green State University in 1995. He then taught at the University of Saint Francis (Indiana) before joining the History Department at Weber State University from 1999-2008. During the 2002-2003 academic year, he was Visiting Professor in the Department of Strategy and International Security at the USAF Air War College and later served as Distinguished Professor of Military History at the USAF School for Advanced Air and Space Studies from 2010-2011. He also served two years as the General Harold K. Johnson Visiting Chair in Military History at the US Army War College (2012-2014). He is author of The Gulf War (Palgrave Macmillan, 2012), My Lai: An American Atrocity in the Vietnam War (Johns Hopkins University Press, 2012), Military Justice in Vietnam: The Rule of Law in an American War (University Press of Kansas, 2007), and American Diplomats in Russia: Case Studies in Orphan Diplomacy, 1917-1919 (Praeger, 1997), and is co-author with Janet Valentine and the late Jeffery Grey of American Military History: A Survey from Colonial Times to the Present (Routledge, 2020), among other works. He has presented and lectured at numerous conferences and universities, including Oxford, Cambridge, the University of Zurich, the University of Edinburgh, the University of Amsterdam, the Australian Defence Force Academy, the US Army Heritage and Education Center, and the USAF Air Command & Staff College. In addition to recent essays on war remembrance and commemoration, his current research includes book projects on the Tet Offensive and America in 1968.He is a former Trustee and Vice-President of the Society for Military History and was awarded the Society for Military History's Edwin Simmons Distinguished Service Award. He has served on the editorial board of the Journal of Military History and is editor for Routledge’s Critical Moments in American History series. He serves on the Department of the Army Historical Advisory Subcommittee and was awarded the Army’s Outstanding Civilian Service Medal in 2014. Since 2019, he is the series editor for Modern War Studies at the University Press of Kansas, and since 2023 is the Program Director for the Society for Military History Summer Seminar in Military History. He co-hosts with Prof. Brian Feltman (Georgia Southern University) the podcast Military Historians are People, Too!. Allison is a member of the Guild of Battlefield Tour Guides and is a guide with The Cultural Experience (Vietnam), a UK-based battlefield tour company. In 2023, he was elected a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society.Born and raised in Sulphur Springs, Texas, he lives in Spartanburg, South Carolina with spouse Jennifer and black lab Tucker. | Teaching PhilosophyI like to teach. |
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| stedders@georgiasouthern.edu | Stuart | Tedders | Professor & Dean | 912-478-1922 | Hendricks Hall | Armstrong Campus, Statesboro Campus | Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health | Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology & Environmental Health Sciences | A native of Perry, Georgia, Dr. Tedders was an original member of the Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health (JPHCOPH) when it was founded on January 1, 2006. Beginning his employment as an Assistant Professor in 2000 at Georgia Southern University, Dr. Tedders is a Professor of Epidemiology and currently serves as Dean of the college. Dr. Tedders earned his BS degree in Biology from Georgia Southern College in 1987. After graduating from Georgia Southern College, he earned a MS degree in Medical Entomology from Clemson University (1989) and a PhD in Public Health from the University of South Carolina (1994). As a former Assistant Professor at Mercer University School of Medical (1994 - 2000), Dr. Tedders developed a keen interest in working with rural Georgia communities and was named Georgia Rural Health Researcher of the Year in 1999 by the Georgia Rural Health Association. As a faculty member in the JPHCOPH, Dr. Tedders has served in numerous faculty and administrative capacities prior to being named the Dean, including service as the Associate Dean of Academic Affairs, the Director for the Center for Rural Health and Research, and the Director of the Office of Public Health Practice and Community Service. Dr. Tedders has worked with rural and underserved communities in Georgia for 30 years. His community interactions have involved the application of epidemiologic principles, including public health surveillance, to more fully understand the complexities of rural population health status. He has considerable expertise conducting Community Health Assessments and working with rural communities to design and evaluate health promotion programs. His research interests involve the social, economic, and educational factors that influence risk and risk perception. Dr. Tedders has served on health-related boards throughout the state including the Georgia Rural Health Association (Secretary, Treasurer), the Statewide Area Health Education Center (AHEC) Advisory Council, Morehouse School of Medicine AHEC Advisory Board, Chair of the Magnolia Coastlands AHEC, and Secretary of the State Office of Rural Health Advisory Board. | Teaching PhilosophyI understand that many college students are at a pivotal point in their lives, and even the most simplistic problems tend to be magnified in the eyes of the student. Therefore, my teaching philosophy is one which grounded in empathy for and responsiveness to student needs. I also recognize that my teaching philosophy is a work in progress that is constantly being refined in response to the environment as influenced by the unique blend of student-teacher interactions in a given semester. This environment and these dynamics are ever changing, so flexibility and adaptability as a teacher are essential. These interactions include the evolving nature of the health discipline, personal difficulties experienced by students, preferred learning styles of students, and the uniqueness of every student. This complex interaction of factors that occur every semester serves to present new challenges as teacher. However, these challenges serve as a catalyst for me to perform more effectively and efficiently in the classroom. My teaching philosophy also promotes the importance of communication, both oral and written. In the health field, effective communication is an essential pre-requisite for a successful health professional. I enhance communication skills among students by encouraging them to interact during class through question/answer sessions and oral presentations. Lastly, my teaching philosophy is also one which promotes activities designed to stimulate skills in problem-solving and critical thinking. As a result, I always attempt to integrate a problem-based approach in a didactic setting in order to reinforce the importance of these skills in addressing critical 21st century public health problems. |
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| lcowan@georgiasouthern.edu | Logan | Cowan | Associate Professor | 912-478-8921 | 2003 Hendricks Hall | Statesboro Campus | Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health | Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology & Environmental Health Sciences | Dr. Cowan received his MPH degree from Brigham Young University and his PhD in Epidemiology from the University of Minnesota. Dr. Cowan is a cardiovascular disease epidemiologist whose research focuses on identifying acute precipitants or triggers of cardiovascular disease. Dr. Cowan has taught epidemiology at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. He particularly enjoys teaching epidemiologic and research methodology to public health students of all levels. Dr. Cowan is a member of several professional organizations including the American Public Health Association (APHA), the Society for Epidemiologic Research (SER), and the American Heart Association (AHA) | Teaching PhilosophyPrinciples of Epidemiology, Research Methods, Cardiovascular Disease Epidemiology |
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| hwimmer@georgiasouthern.edu | http://www.ninjaprofessor.com | Hayden | Wimmer | Professor | 912-478-4121 | IT 2102 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Information Technology | Hayden Wimmer has a Ph.D. from the University of Maryland Baltimore County in Information Systems based in data mining and artificial intelligence applied to financial data. He also holds an M.S. is in Information Systems from UMBC, an M.B.A. from the Pennsylvania State University, and a B.S.in Information Systems from York College of PA.Prior to academia, he worked in industry for over 10 years in different capacities in Information Technology performing programming, web design and administration, server administration, network configuration, database administration, and of course technical support on all levels. He traveled the world in his professional capacities performing support and integration for a multinational company spending time in various U.S. locations as well as Canada, Mexico, France, Germany, Belgium, and China.Dr. Wimmer has multiple journal publications related to multi-agent systems, artificial intelligence, data science, and I.S. education; and serves in various editorial capacities including co-editor in chief, board member, and reviewer of various journals and conferences and is a member of the Association of Information Systems. He has taught courses such as programming, database management, project management, I.T. infrastructure, and healthcare informatics. His research is published in top journals such as Decision Support Systems (DSS), Expert Systems with Applications (ESwA), Journal of Computer Information Systems (JCIS), Computers and Geosciences, and Computers in Human Behavior. Dr. Wimmer’s research and outreach has been funded for nearly $3 million as PI/Co-PI. | Teaching PhilosophyAs a student, I observed that professors can make a profound difference in the lives of students and their future careers. Professors should not only be instructors of material but additionally mentors and role models. My philosophy involves being available to students and spending time with them on their academic projects and research. Due to this, I supervise many of our master’s projects and theses. Similarly, I supervise our undergraduate senior capstone students both face to face and online and often students complete projects that help advance my research when applicable. I mentored many students with many accepting top positions in well-respected organizations such as Intel, Robbins AFB, American Express, Microsoft, and Home Depot, and are often hired before graduation. I feel treating students as equals and with respect is the most viable method to engage the student and challenge them to learn. Similarly, each student, regardless of background, race, ethnicity, gender, and nationality brings unique and valuable experience to the classroom and research lab. I maintain an open-door policy with all students and always do everything in my power to be approachable and respectful. I engage students in thought and, as a technology instructor, I attempt to provide hands-on examples and in class lab assignments. I feel this time is beneficial to assist the student and class with the material which enhances their command of – at times – highly complex material. Additionally, I actively engage in research, but I do not permit myself to lose sight of the students with whom I am involved. My student reviews are highly positive employing this approach. I also seek to maintain a high level of academic rigor and excellence along with continually seeking new innovative pedagogical methods of instruction. In the end, I believe my duty is to instill computing knowledge, practices, and certifiable skills so that the students will be successful not only in their future courses, but in their future careers. The high success rates of students who work under my direction indicate that I am fulfilling this duty. |
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| Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, and Cyber Security Laboratory (DAC-lab) | ||||||||||
| jtatlock@georgiasouthern.edu | Jason | Tatlock | Professor | 912-344-3126 | Hawes 103A | Armstrong Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of History | Dr. Tatlock completed his academic training in Canada, Israel, and the United States, specializing in the ancient world and religious studies. Prior to joining the Armstrong campus faculty in 2007, he was a visiting assistant professor at Morgan State University in Baltimore. He offers courses in world history, the ancient Near East, ritual studies, and Israel-Palestine. | Teaching PhilosophyDr. Tatlock is concerned about student well-being and academic success. Like his colleagues, he believes that the university experience moves beyond career training and the passing along of information. He views academics as a give-and-take endeavor in which there is an exchange of ideas, concepts, and perspectives between faculty and students. He not only guides student learning, but is impacted to view things through different lenses or to consider new questions about the historical subjects he addresses. This is because students bring their questions and understandings into the classroom, helping to create a mutual learning experience. |
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| batchelo@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/cah/history/faculty/dr-robert-batchelor-department-chair/ | Robert | Batchelor | Professor | 912-344-2760 | Armstrong 109B, IAB 3013 | Armstrong Campus, Statesboro Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of History | I serve as the Chair of the History Department and Director of Digital Humanities at Georgia Southern University. Originally from Oklahoma, I completed my PhD at UCLA and post-doctoral work at Stanford, where I began exploring how digital, experiential, and interdisciplinary methods can transform the humanities. My early research examined globalizing processes through maritime networks, as explored in my book London: The Selden Map and the Making of a Global City (University of Chicago Press, 2014), which traced the influence of East and Southeast Asia on London’s development as a global hub. This work expanded into innovative public history projects, including a board game (Fujian Trader), a digital app, experimental documentaries, and permanent art installations as well as solo shows.Currently, my research focuses on environmental borderlands and the relationship between media and ecology in the Pacific. This evolving interest in how global networks—both historical and contemporary—intersect with media and technology informs my involvement with the AI and the Human Research Network at Georgia Southern. With that group, I explore the history of AI, its implications for Disability Studies, and the regional dynamics of AI development. As Director of the Digital Humanities Lab, I continue to integrate cutting-edge digital tools into humanities scholarship. | Teaching PhilosophyI believe that the study of History and the Humanities should go beyond the traditional lecture-based approach to engage students in experiential, hands-on learning. By immersing students in real-world applications of historical research, whether through fieldwork, archival research, exhibitions, or interactive digital humanities projects, we foster a deeper understanding of the past and its relevance to contemporary issues. This approach not only ignites curiosity but also cultivates leadership, professionalism, teamwork, critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills that are vital in today’s world.Recognizing the diverse learning needs of students is crucial to creating an inclusive classroom. Neurodiversity and different life experiences play significant roles in shaping how students absorb, process, and engage with material. I strive to create a learning environment where all students feel supported and valued, employing flexible teaching methods that accommodate a range of learning styles. This includes offering multiple avenues for participation and assessment, providing clear and structured guidelines, and encouraging collaboration that allows every student to contribute based on their strengths.Ultimately, my goal is to empower students to become active participants in their own education, fostering a lifelong passion for learning and a nuanced understanding of history that they can carry into their personal and professional lives. |
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| HUMN: Digital Humanities Lab | ||||||||||
| wmase@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/william-a-mase-2 | William | Mase | Professor | 912-478-6984 | 2016 Hendricks Hall | Statesboro Campus | Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health | Department of Health Policy & Community Health | Dr. Mase is an Professor of Health Policy and Management. He holds a doctorate in public health from the University of Kentucky College of Public Health, a MPH from the Ohio State University College of Public Health and a Master of Arts in Sociology from West Virginia University. He brings over 30 years of experience. Funded initiatives included rural hospital stabilization, local public health department accreditation, addiction recovery, and healthcare workforce development. Career grant funding is over $11,500,000 from the Food and Drug Administration, Health Services Research Administration, the United States Department of Health & Human Services, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, and Georgia Department of Community Health . | Teaching PhilosophyI would define my teaching philosophy as being in dedicated service to the next generation of public health professionals and leaders. As an educator I encourage my students to explore their knowledge of public health, search the foundations of their current understandings, and ultimately bring themselves to a heightened awareness of public health concepts. I endeavor to improve the quality of my courses by learning from suggestions and recommendations received from my students. I regularly make modifications in thecourses I teach. |
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| Center for Addiction Recovery, Center for Public Health Practice and Research | ||||||||||
| chendricks@georgiasouthern.edu | Christopher | Hendricks | Professor of History | 912-344-2725 | Hawes 106B | Armstrong Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of History | Christopher E. Hendricks has taught at the Armstrong Campus of Georgia Southern since 1993. He has worked extensively in archaeology, historic preservation, and museum interpretation with many organizations including the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, Old Salem, Inc., and the Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts. He is the author of numerous publications, including The Backcountry Towns of Colonial Virginia, Old Southern Cookery, and The Piedmont Towns of Colonial North Carolina. He received his Bachelor of Arts in History and English from Wake Forest University and his Master of Arts and Doctorate in History from the College of William and Mary in Virginia, where he specialized in early American history and material culture. | Teaching PhilosophyI approach each of my classes with the basic idea that if you have high expectations, students will rise to meet them. I feel it is important in all of my classes, from freshmen surveys to graduate seminars, not only to present material to the students, but to also train them in skills that will serve them throughout the rest of their lives, i.e., to be able to research thoroughly, evaluate critically, and communicate effectively. |
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| htung@georgiasouthern.edu | Ho Jui | Tung | Associate Professor | 912-478-1342 | Room 2011, Hendricks Hall | Statesboro Campus | Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health | Department of Health Policy & Community Health | Ho-Jui Tung, Ph.D., is an associate professor in the Department of Health Policy and Community Health, Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health, Georgia Southern University. Dr. Tung has focused his research on social gerontology and health policy since his doctoral dissertation. He has been analyzing large-scale survey data and claims data to identify disparities in preventive care use and end-of-life care planning across older populations. He also has extensive experiences in examining the mechanisms of health disparities and linksbetween social determinants of health and health inequalities. | Teaching PhilosophyOver my teaching career in public health, I have emphasized on: 1) conceptual thinking skills that apply to situations students might encounter in the future; 2) improving understanding of foundational knowledge and skill in public health; 3) illustrating the interdisciplinary nature of public health; 4) link relevant, both historic and contemporary, public health events to expand their interests in public health. Because of my training in socio-behavioral sciences, I always urge students to pay attention to the relationship between individual behavioral choices and their consequences on the health of the populations. |
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| jbrawner@georgiasouthern.edu | https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4437-0762 | James | Brawner | Professor of Mathematics and Associate Chair, Department of Mathematical Sciences | 912-344-3186 | University Hall 281A | Armstrong Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Mathematical Sciences | Jim Brawner is a professor of mathematics on the Armstrong campus of Georgia Southern University, where he has taught since 1997. His research interests include algebraic geometry, combinatorics, and voting theory. In 2001 he received the Carl B. Allendoerfer Award from the Mathematical Association of America for his article, "Dinner, Dancing, and Tennis, Anyone?" in Mathematics Magazine. Since 2005 he has been the organizer of a student/faculty problem solving group, the Eagle Problem Solvers, which has published over 100 solutions, and had over 300 additional solutions acknowledged in mathematical journals. In his spare time he enjoys knitting and running marathons. |
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| woreilly@georgiasouthern.edu | William | O'Reilly | Visiting Instructor of Mathematics | 912-478-5390 | Math/Physics 2042B | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Mathematical Sciences | Mr. O’Reilly is a visiting instructor of mathematics on the Statesboro campus . He joined the Georgia Southern University Mathematical Sciences department in 2024. |
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| wcoggins@georgiasouthern.edu | William | Coggins | Senior Lecturer | 912-478-4370 | Mathematics, Room 3044 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Mathematical Sciences | I am a senior lecturer in mathematics with a strong interest in computational mathematics and machine learning, specifically how to train neural networks to solve NP-hard combinatorial optimization problems. I currently serve as the assessment coordinator for MATH 1232 and teach all courses from College Algebra through Calculus. I currently work with Dr. Weitian Tong in the department of computer science and am looking to enroll in the PhD in Applied Computing. |
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| heisenreich@georgiasouthern.edu | Heidi | Eisenreich | Associate Professor, Mathematics Education | Math/Physics 2310 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Mathematical Sciences | Dr. Heidi A. Eisenreich specializes in mathematics education for preservice K-8 teachers. Her teaching approach emphasizes collaborative learning, solving problems in multiple ways, and mathematical discourse to foster a deep conceptual understanding of mathematical concepts. Beyond the classroom, Dr. Eisenreich focuses on preparing preservice teachers for professional learning at conferences and supporting families through hands-on mathematics workshops. She holds leadership positions in the Georgia Association of Mathematics Teacher Educators and the Georgia Council of Teachers of Mathematics, demonstrating her commitment to mathematics teaching and learning. |
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| schang@georgiasouthern.edu | https://sites.google.com/a/georgiasouthern.edu/schang/mathematics/research | Sungkon | Chang | Professor of Mathematics | 912-478-1475 | Math/Physics 2309 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Mathematical Sciences | Sungkon’s research interest lies in the area of number theory, and he published works on the arithmetic of elliptic curves and topics in elementary number theory. He has been fostering undergraduate mathematics by participating in the journal problem solving sessions and assisting with preparations for the William Lowell Putnam Competition for many years. |
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| asills@georgiasouthern.edu | Andrew | Sills | Professor of Mathematics and Statistics | 912-478-5424 | Math/Physics 3305 and University Hall 272 | Armstrong Campus, Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Mathematical Sciences | Professor Sills joined the Georgia Southern faculty in 2007. His research interests include combinatorial number theory, especially integer partitions, and related topics including all areas of mathematics influenced by Srinivasa Ramanujan. He is the author of the book An Invitation to the Rogers–Ramanujan Identities published by CRC Press in 2017. More recently, he has expanded his research program to include mathematical statistics. He enjoys classroom teaching and individual mentorship of students in mathematics and statistics. Several of his student advisees have gone on to earn the Ph.D. degree. |
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| Statistical Consulting Unit (SCU), Center for Discrete Mathematics and Computer Science (DIMACS) | ||||||||||||
| estehr@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/eryn-m-maher | Eryn Michelle | Maher | Associate Professor | 912-478-5706 | 2303 Math/Physics Bldg Statesboro | Armstrong Campus, Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Mathematical Sciences | Dr. Maher joined Georgia Southern University in 2017 as a mathematics educator specializing in K-8 teacher preparation. Her passion lies in fostering mathematical creativity, critical thinking, and real-world application among undergraduate students. Dr. Maher's teaching approach emphasizes inclusive strategies to support diverse learners, addressing math anxiety, and building strong mathematical identities. Her research focuses on developing self-reliant math learners, effective use of language and technology in instruction, incorporating authentic contexts in problem-solving, and promoting diversity in mathematics education. |
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| fhamzalup@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/felix-g-hamza-lup-2 | Felix | Hamza-Lup | Professor | 912-344-2680 | Science Center | Armstrong Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Computer Science | Dr. Hamza-Lup research centers on the intersection of Human-Computer Interaction and Artificial Intelligence, with a particular focus on advancing human cognition, haptic systems/robotics, augmented and mixed reality, and interactive 3D web-based simulation and training environments. In addition, he actively explores cutting-edge domains such as distributed ledger technology, ubiquitous computing, distributed sensor systems, and cryptography, applying these innovations to secure, decentralized systems. His ongoing projects include developing multi-modal training and simulation systems in critical areas like medical simulation. Felix is awardee of the Fulbright fellowship for outstanding research. | Teaching PhilosophyDr. Hamza-Lup is deeply committed to professional growth, engaging in numerous development events aimed at refining course design, content delivery, and cultivating dynamic, meaningful interactions between students and instructors. By embracing cutting-edge pedagogical strategies, he ensures knowledge transfer, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration. He adapts course content to the diverse needs of his students, creating an inclusive, stimulating learning environment. With a strong focus on integrating real-world applications into the curriculum, he empowers students to actively engage with the material, deepening their understanding and preparing them for real-life challenges. |
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| tan@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/admin/workspace/personal/overview/ | Tuyin | An | Associate Professor of Mathematics Education | 912-478-5335 | Math/Physics 2320 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Mathematical Sciences | Dr. Tuyin An has been a dedicated member of the Mathematical Sciences Department at Georgia Southern University since 2017. As a mathematics teacher educator, her research spans several critical areas, including reasoning and proof, geometry for teachers, technology in mathematics education, and teachers’ number sense. Dr. An is recognized as an MAA Project NExT Fellow and an AMTE STaR Fellow, reflecting her commitment to professional development and excellence in mathematics education. She also serves as a co-director of the Georgia Southern University Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program, where she plays a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of STEM educators. |
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| jgoshorn@georgiasouthern.edu | John | Goshorn | Associate Professor, Multimedia & Film Production | 912-478-0534 | Sanford 2007 | Statesboro Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of Communication Arts | John Goshorn is an Associate Professor of Multimedia and Film Production and coordinates the BS degree program in Multimedia and Film Production within the Department of Communication Arts. An alum of the University of Central Florida and James Madison University, he also teaches courses in the Interdisciplinary Minor in Film Studies. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching is primarily focused on the skills students need to think critically, think independently, and think creatively about the media arts. In so doing, my students are able to acquire essential tools to effectively participate in the cultural, intellectual, and economic discourse the media arts comprise, the inherent complexity of which lends itself well to such higher-level thinking, which is an asset to students of any academic discipline. |
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| cfung@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/isaac-fung-2 | Isaac | Fung | Professor | 912-478-5079 | Hendricks 2029 | Statesboro Campus | Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health | Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology & Environmental Health Sciences | Dr. Isaac Chun-Hai Fung is an infectious disease epidemiologist with experice in mathematical modeling, data analysis, and digital health. He investigates the transmission of communicable diseases with a focus on respiratory infections and environmentally transmitted infections. He applied a variety of methods, from classical statistical methods to machine learning and mathematical modeling, to address public health problems and to provide solutions to policy-makers. He is especially interested in assisting public health agencies in their responses to public health emergencies. Note: Please do not change my GS Scholar profile, as I maintain it myself. | Teaching PhilosophyEpidemiology of Infectious diseases; mathematical modeling of infectious disease transmission dynamics |
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| Institute for Water and Health | ||||||||||
| meremeeva@georgiasouthern.edu | Marina | Eremeeva | Professor, Director of the JPHCOPH Core Laboratory | 912-478-0504 | Hendricks Hall, 501 Forest Drive | Statesboro Campus | Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health | Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology & Environmental Health Sciences | Dr. Marina Eremeeva is a microbiologist and a biochemist by training. Dr. Eremeeva has worked in both academic and government institutions in Russia, France and USA including the WHO Reference Center for Rickettsioses in Marseille and the CDC in Atlanta. Dr. Eremeeva is certified for work in BSL-3 laboratories and serves as the GS Biosafety Officer. She has worked internationally and served as an invited faculty and organizer of training workshops in China, St. Kitts-Nevis, Guatemala, Tunisia, Haiti, and India. Dr. Eremeeva is an Associate Editor for New Microbes & New Infections, Heliyon Microbiology and Frontiers, and serves on grant panel reviews, and as an AdHoc reviewer for scientific journals. | Teaching PhilosophyMy primary goal in teaching is to provide a nurturing environment that facilitates thinking and personal growth by my students, and to give them an opportunity to reach a higher degree of competence. |
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| Core Public Health Laboratory | |||||||||||
| doyunlee@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.linkedin.com/in/doyun-lee-186089239/ | Doyun | Lee | Assistant Professor | 912-478-6028 | 1101H Engineering Building | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Civil Engineering & Construction | Dr. Lee holds a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering and an M.S. in Electrical Engineering from North Carolina State University and an M.S. and B.C. in Architectural Engineering from Kyung Hee University in South Korea.Dr. Lee's research focuses on advancing robotics equipped with visual sensors to navigate construction environments, understand surrounding semantics, and perform complex construction tasks. His recent work includes developing real-time automated mobile robotic systems to improve project outcomes, address safety concerns, and mitigate labor shortages in construction industry. | Teaching PhilosophyDr. Lee's teaching experiences have given him valuable insights into the three pivotal elements that significantly impact effective instruction. First and foremost, motivating students emerges as a top priority. Secondly, he firmly believes in the power of students learning-by-doing. Lastly, he is committed to providing unwavering support to his students, both academically and personally. This comprehensive approach encapsulates how he endeavors to inspire his students and continually evolve as an educator. |
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| Construction Automation and Robotics Laboratory (CARL) | ||||||||||
| Bfeltman@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/cah/history/faculty/feltman/ | Brian K. | Feltman | Professor of History | 912-47'8-5835 | IAB 3014 | Statesboro Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of History | Brian K. Feltman is professor of Modern European history. He has held research fellowships from the German Historical Institute and the German Academic Exchange (DAAD) and published articles on violence against prisoners of war, relationships between POWs and local women, German-Jewish war veterans, and the prosecution of Nazi war criminals. His first book, The Stigma of Surrender: German Prisoners, British Captors, and Manhood in the Great War and Beyond, received the Society for Military History's Coffman Prize for the best first-manuscript in the field of military history. His current project examines the visual and material culture of mourning in Germany from 1914-1933. In 2023 he was elected a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy is centered on student/teacher interaction and sharing my enthusiasm for history in a way that encourages students to develop a better understanding of their place in the world. In the process, they improve the communication and critical thinking skills that will benefit them regardless of the career path they choose. |
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| hsamawi@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/hani-samawi-2 | Hani | Samawi | Professor of Biostatistics and Interim Chair | 912-478-1345 | Hendricks Hall 1012 | Statesboro Campus | Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health | Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology & Environmental Health Sciences | Ph.D. in Biostatistics from the University of Iowa (USA) in 1994. Full Professor of Biostatistics at Yarmouk University until 2006. Currently, I am a tenured Full Professor in Biostatistics and Interim Chair, since July 1, 2019, in the Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Environmental Health Sciences, at Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health at Georgia Southern University. I served as the Karl E. Peace Center for Biostatistics Director from August 2008 to June 2016. Associate Editor of Frontiers in Child Health and Human Development. A guest editor for a special issue of the Internal Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. The issue focus is on innovative data and statistical applications in Public Health. | Teaching PhilosophyAs a Biostatistician, my teaching philosophy focuses on providing students with practical tools and fostering critical thinking for success in Public Health, Medicine, and Engineering. I emphasize hands-on learning and curiosity-driven exploration to enhance understanding. My open-door "coffee hours" create a welcoming environment for discussion, and I promote teamwork through real-world data projects that bridge theory and application. At Georgia Southern University, I have guided theses and dissertations, with many students presenting and publishing their research. I integrate technology using software like SAS, SPSS, and R, and have successfully taught online courses since 2012. |
| Research Interests
| Karl E. Peace Center for Biostatistics and Research | ||||||||||
| cowens@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/news/expert/?username=charles.owens | Charles | Owens | Clinical Associate Professor | 229-322-8290 | Hendricks Hall | Statesboro Campus | Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health | Department of Health Policy & Community Health | Serves as Associate Clinical Professor for the Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health (JPHCOPH) and the Director of the Center for Public Health Practice & Research. Provides instruction in the JPHCOPH Health Policy & Community Health Department focusing on health care finance and policy. He administers various programs targeting areas of public health including but not limited to, Public Health, hospitals, Emergency Medical Services, needs assessment, program evaluation, strategic planning, health systems planning and various other components within health and health care arenas. With over 30 years of experience he has held a variety of senior leadership positions across the entire continuum of care. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy is to provide a current practical understanding of viable health care delivery systems working across the continuum of care to meet the needs of people within the service area so that all may thrive. |
| Research Interests
| Center for Public Health Practice and Research | ||||||||||
| cschachner@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/cah/art/faculty-staff/ | Casey | Schachner | Associate Professor of Art | 912-344-2556 | Annex II Room 104 | Armstrong Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Betty Foy Sanders Department of Art | Casey Schachner is an Associate Professor of Art at the Betty Foy Sanders Department of Art at Georgia Southern University. Her research activity explores various traditional and contemporary sculptural mediums as well as temporary site-specific installations and permanent public artworks. Her work has been exhibited nationally and internationally and featured in numerous publications. Recent accomplishments include being selected as one of three recipients of the 2022-2023 Georgia Sea Grant for Artists, Writers, and Scholars program for her collaborative research with the Biology department in exploring the Intersection of art, science, and marine conservation using algal biomass waste. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy focuses on collaboration and inclusivity in the engaging environment of a fine arts studio. I encourage students to think critically in their creative endeavors and be curious with each new artistic medium and technique. |
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| jlangdon@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/jody-l-langdon-2 | Jody | Langdon | Professor | 912-478-5378 | Hollis 1101B | Statesboro Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Department of Health Science & Kinesiology | Dr. Jody Langdon is a Professor of Exercise Science and Coaching Education at Georgia Southern University. Reinforcing the teacher/scholar model, her research focuses on the provision of autonomy support in sport and academic settings. This work has resulted in her being awarded the Georgia Southern University SoTL Scholar Award along with the University System of Georgia Regent’s Award for the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning. She has also earned recognition as a Center for Self-Determination Theory International Scholar and as a National Association for Kinesiology in Higher Education Fellow. | Teaching PhilosophyMeaningful learning happens in spaces where students are actively engaged, supported by mechanisms that allow for progress without penalty. Aligned with this idea, I teach students with active learning in mind, utilizing technology and high-impact practices where appropriate. Students are taught in an environment where it is ok to fail and try again, understanding the true process of learning. |
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| jgibson@georgiasouthern.edu | Joshua D. | Gibson | Assistant Professor | 912-478-7826 | 2268 Biological Sciences | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biology | My research is focused on understanding the genetic and evolutionary basis of phenotypic traits that vary between insects. I’m particularly interested in traits that contribute to speciation by acting as barriers to gene flow, either by stopping mating or reducing the fitness of hybrids. I’m also interested in the mechanisms and evolution of sociality in ants. My work integrates genetics, physiology, and behavior to understand how traits evolve and interact to produce the diversity of life we see today. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy centers on creating an inclusive and flexible learning environment that accommodates diverse learning styles and backgrounds, fostering a sense of belonging for every student. By combining adaptability with high academic expectations, I strive to challenge students while providing the support they need to achieve their fullest potential. |
| Research Interests
| James H. Oliver, Jr., Institute for Coastal Plain Science | |||||||||||
| jchopak@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/admin/workspace/personal/overview/ | Joanne | Chopak-Foss | Asociate Professor | 912-478-1530 | 1022 Hendricks Hall | Statesboro Campus | Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health | Department of Health Policy & Community Health | Dr. Chopak-Foss is an Associate Professor and director of the MPH program in the Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health at Georgia Southern University. Dr. Chopak-Foss received her Ph.D. and M.S. from Penn State University in Health Education and a B.S. degree in Physical Education from the University of Delaware. During her academic career, she has been a leader in curriculum development for both undergraduate and graduate education in public health and has developed over 10 different classes for the University. | Teaching PhilosophyThroughout my tenure at the institution, my teaching philosophy has evolved into the belief that learning is a process and that students who are active learners will be more successful in individual classes and in their programs of study. I have worked diligently to create original authentic assignments that applied meaningful and relevant skills integral to public health practice. My passion for teaching is expressed in providing an inclusive environment in which the expectation is for ALL students to be successful and continually updating curriculum that contributes to the success of the student beyond the classroom. I have a simple philosophy that has guided my teaching for over 30 years |
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| hongjiewang@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/cah/history/faculty/dr-hongjie-wang/ | Hongjie Wang | Wang | Associate Professor | 912-344-3130 | Armstrong Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of History | PhD in History from Brown. Research interests include Chinese history, food culture, and US-China relations. | Teaching PhilosophyLearning without Thinking is useless, and thinking without learning is dangerous |
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| aadhikari@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/atin-adhikari-2 | Atin | Adhikari | Professor of Environmental Health Sciences | 912-478-2289 | Hendricks Hall, Room 2025 | Statesboro Campus | Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health | Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology & Environmental Health Sciences | Dr. Adhikari's extensive research spans critical public health areas, such as environmental air quality, occupational health, and respiratory health. As a Principal Investigator, he has conducted laboratory and field studies on bioaerosol exposures and their impact on respiratory health among farm workers. His work also involves overseeing grants focused on immunomodulator bioaerosols, pesticide residues, and the effects of air pollutants on children's respiratory microbiome. Currently, he is spearheading projects aimed at improving indoor air quality and implementing sustainable methods to reduce pesticide exposures. Additionally, he has actively contributed to US DTRA projects related to inactivating hazardous microorganisms. | Teaching PhilosophyI strongly support a curriculum that combines environmental health with basic sciences and emphasizes hands-on experiences. This approach will help students apply what they learn to real health problems. Instructors should clearly communicate the practical aspects of environmental health. An engaging, active learning environment is important for a successful graduate course on environmental health. At the undergraduate level, instructors should introduce students to various environmental and occupational health and safety problems. Teachers should be committed and able to effectively communicate the practical aspects of environmental health through a mix of lectures, discussions, and group activities in classes and online discussion forums. |
| Research Interests
| Core Public Health Laboratory | ||||||||||
| jajones@georgiasouthern.edu | Jeffery | Jones | 912-478-7422 | 2005 Hendricks Hall | Statesboro Campus | Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health | Department of Health Policy & Community Health | Dr. Jeff Jones, MA, PhD, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Health Policy and Community Health at the Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health, Georgia Southern University. | Teaching PhilosophyEngaging students involves building on knowledge they have already mastered and expanding upon it. |
| Research Interests
| Center for Women, Gender, & Sexuality Studies, Center for STEM Education (i2STEMed), Center for Public Health Practice and Research, Institute for Water and Health | ||||||||||||
| knti@georgiasouthern.edu | Kwaku | Nti | Associate Professor | 912-344-2701 | 108 B Hawes Hall | Armstrong Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of History | Born and raised in Ghana, Kwaku Nti attended University of Ghana, Legon, University of Cape Coast, and University of Ghana, again, where he taught in the Department of History from 2000 to 2003. In 2003, Nti came to the United States. He graduated from Central Michigan, 2005, and Michigan State University, 2011, Nti has been teaching African and World History courses in Georgia Southern University since 2011. He is the author of Maritime Culture and Everyday Life in Nineteenth and Twentieth Century Coastal Ghana: A Social History of Cape Coast (Bloomington, IN: Indiana University Press, 2023). | Teaching PhilosophyAlways aiming at creating a learning community in every teaching encounter through systematic presentation of facts to enable students confidently do insightful interpretations. |
| Research Interests
| Center for Africana Studies | |||||||||||
| kharp@georgiasouthern.edu | Kimberly | Harp | Administrative Assistant III | 912-478-5195 | Hollis 2123C and Ashmore Hall 138 | Armstrong Campus, Statesboro Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | WCHP Office of the Dean | I am double eagle currently serving as the communication officer and marketing liaison for the Waters College of Health Professions. |
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| tmbrown@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/tricia-brown | Tricia Muldoon | Brown | Department Chair and Professor | 912-344-3244 | University Hall 277 | Armstrong Campus, Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Mathematical Sciences | nonw |
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| aiacob@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=pf-wvHQAAAAJ&hl=en | Alina | Iacob | Professor of Mathematics | 912-478-5839 | Math/Physics 3323 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Mathematical Sciences | Alina joined the Department of Mathematical Sciences in 2007. Her research is in Homological Algebra, and applications to Commutative and Noncommutative Algebra, and to Model Category Theory. Her publications include one book, a book chapter, and 40 journal articles. She has advised six Master’s Theses at Georgia Southern so far. |
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| KDUNN@GEORGIASOUTHERN.EDU | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/kerry-dunn | Kerry | Dunn | Senior Lecturer/Clinical Coordinator | 912-344-3352 | Ashmore Hall 146 | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Department of Clinical Science | Kerry Dunn is the Clinical Coordinator and Senior Lecturer for the Radiography Program at Georgia Southern University in Savannah, Georgia. She teaches didactic, laboratory, and clinical courses within the Radiologic Sciences Degree Program and Radiography Concentration. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy focuses on clinical leadership and mentoring in medical imaging and radiography in order to provide high-quality medical imaging and patient care. |
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| ekartchner@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/cah/languages/faculty-staff/kartchner/ | Eric | Kartchner | 912-478-5303 | IAB 2053 | Statesboro Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of World Languages & Cultures | Eric Kartchner is an associate professor of Spanish. For his bachelor’s, he studied French, Spanish, and Philosophy; his master’s studies were in Hispanic literature and Romance linguistics; and his doctoral studies focused on early modern Hispanic literature, with minors in Hispanic linguistics and comparative literature. He enjoys teaching a wide variety of courses in language, literature, and linguistics. His research ranges from the Spanish Baroque to the Latin American Boom to best practices in language pedagogy. | Teaching PhilosophyDemonstrate, practice, perform, review, repeat. |
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| abelzer@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/cah/history/faculty/dr-allison-scardino-belzer/ | Allison Scardino | Belzer | Professor | 912-344-3120 | Hawes 103B | Armstrong Campus | College of Arts & Humanities, Honors College | Department of History | Dr. Allison Scardino Belzer, Professor of History at Georgia Southern University, specializes in modern European history, focusing on women’s experiences in Italy and Britain. Her research explores gender, war, and social activism in 19th-20th century Europe. Her book, “Women and the Great War: Femininity under Fire in Italy,” was published in 2010. She regularly contributes to edited volumes and journals and has authored texts for classroom use. A dedicated educator with multiple teaching awards, she’s passionate about undergraduate research and using innovative methods. Her current research examines Jewish women artists in post-Risorgimento Italy and the Ashurst family’s activism in the Victorian era. | Teaching PhilosophyI foster student engagement and critical thinking using innovative methods and rigorous coursework, emphasizing primary source analysis. I employ diverse pedagogical approaches, including Reacting to the Past role-playing, to deepen understanding and develop essential skills. My courses balance content with skill development, emphasizing writing, discussion, and collaborative learning. I bring my scholarship into the classroom, modeling historical research methods and involving students in archival work. My goal is to cultivate empathy, critical analysis, and a passion for lifelong learning. I have authored OER projects and published texts for classroom use with Oxford and Pearson. |
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| bsammons@georgiasouthern.edu | Elizabeth | Sammons | Administrative Specialist | 912-478-1859 | Hollis 2124-Statesboro Campus and Ashmore 138-Armstrong Campus | Armstrong Campus, Statesboro Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Waters College of Health Professions Dean's Office | 20 years of service to Georgia Southern University. Currently the budget manager for the Waters College of Health Professions as well as a Notary Public | |||||||||||||||
| wlynch@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=G4aIDPEAAAAJ | Will | Lynch | Professor of Chemistry; Chair, Department of Biochemistry, Chemistry and Physics | 912-344-3144 | Nursing Chemistry Building, 2003B, Math / Physics Building, 2005, Science Center 2603 | Armstrong Campus, Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biochemistry, Chemistry & Physics | Dr. Lynch received his B.A. degree from Kalamazoo College in 1986. He did research with Dr. Thomas Smith studying quadruple bonded molybdenum complexes. His Ph.D. was awarded in 1991 under the direction of Dr. Richard Lintvedt at Wayne State University studying oxygen atom transfer reactions in osmium complexes. Dr. Lynch completed a postdoc at the University of Georgia with Dr. Donald Kurtz on the activation of molecular oxygen using copper complexes. Dr. Lynch joined Armstrong State College in 1993, now Georgia Southern University. Dr. Lynch’s research interests include the use of metal complexes for catalysis and modeling biological systems, coordination chemistry, coordination polymers and halogen bonding interactions. |
| Research Interests
| COSM Core Research Lab, Center for Advanced Materials Science | GS-CAMS | |||||||||||
| agarrity@georgiasouthern.edu | April | Garrity | Professor | 912-344-2864 | Armstrong Center 254 | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Department of Clinical Science | April Garrity, PhD, CCC-SLP is professor of communication sciences and disorders at Georgia Southern University’s Armstrong Campus in Savannah. She teaches courses in neurogenic communication disorders, dysphagia, and research methodology. Her interests include life participation and quality of life among individuals with neurogenic communication disorders, and the scholarship of teaching and learning, specifically service-learning and trauma-informed educational practices. April maintains an active clinical practice and she is also a trained yoga and meditation instructor. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy is grounded in the development and implementation of engaging, meaningful experiential learning activities for students. I frequently utilize elements of the flipped classroom model so that my students and I can work together in class on activities such as clinical cases, role playing scenarios, and other problem-based and group learning exercises. I also incorporate service-learning and trauma-sensitive teaching and learning strategies to support habits of mind that promote students' resilience and growth mindset. |
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| samanthamcdaniel@georgiasouthern.edu | Samantha | McDaniel | Assistant Professor, Graduate Program Director | 912-344-2786 | Armstrong Center, Room 248 | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Department of Clinical Science | Samantha L. McDaniel is an educator, clinician, and researcher in the field of speech-language pathology. She has 20 years of clinical experience with patients ranging from neonates to centenarians and has a passion for clinical work, supervision, and research in acquired neurogenic communication disorders. Dr. McDaniel teaches both undergraduate and graduate courses within the Communication Sciences and Disorders program. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy emphasizes real-world application, interaction, and student-centered learning in speech-language pathology. I believe that students construct knowledge through experience and collaboration, fostering meaningful dialogue and continuous learning. I incorporate experiential learning, problem-based learning (PBL), and guest speakers to enhance critical thinking and practical skills. Additionally, I promote a growth mindset, encouraging students to embrace challenges and view mistakes as opportunities for development. |
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| Rite Care Center for Communications Disorders | |||||||||||
| hrosko@georgiasouthern.edu | Helen | Rosko | Assistant Professor of Geography | 912-478-8040 | Herty, 1113 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | School of Earth, Environment & Sustainability | Dr. Rosko is a human-environment geographer whose research program is situated at the intersection of international and domestic development processes, climate change adaptation, and livelihoods (rural). Working with vulnerable populations in the Global South (sub-Saharan Africa) and the United States (the Southeast and Central Appalachia), Dr. Rosko employs a critical lens to understand how wider development processes are conceived, implemented, and intersect the everyday lives of individuals and communities. Her driving research goal is to better understand the individual, community, and institutional contexts of vulnerability, resilience, and adaptation to explore practical pathways for more sustainable and just futures. | Teaching PhilosophyDr. Rosko teaches human geography courses and especially those related to human-environment geographies. Her pedagogical motivation is to disrupt student knowledges, encouraging students to question what they know about various socio-environmental processes in the world (ontology) and how they know about them (epistemology). She welcomes all students, regardless of background, identity, or experience to her courses. |
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| Socially Engaged Environment & Development Lab (SEED) | |||||||||||
| skersey@georgiasouthern.edu | Scott | Kersey | Professor of Mathematics | 912-478-1963 | MP 2308 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Mathematical Sciences | Dr. Kersey’s research centers on Approximation Theory and Computational Science, with a specialization in Splines. His current work involves the Approximation and Optimization of functions using B-Spline Quasi-Interpolants on Tensor Product and Sparse Grids. He also explores the Mathematics of Curves and Surfaces, as well as applications in Machine Learning. | Teaching PhilosophyThis goes with his bio : In his Numerical Analysis course, students gain hands-on experience with Matrix Factorizations (SVD,QR) and related computational tools applied to areas like Image Compression, Principal Component Analysis, Classification, Least Squares, and Spline fitting. Additionally, Dr. Kersey manages the LaTeX Thesis Template used by graduate students and coordinates our WeBWorK server for undergraduate coursework. |
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| jjimenez@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/jos%C3%A9-a-jim%C3%A9nez-2 | José A. | Jiménez | Assistant Professor | 912-478-4051 | Nursing/Chemistry Building, Room 3216A | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biochemistry, Chemistry & Physics | José A. Jiménez earned a PhD in Applied Chemistry in 2009 at the University of Puerto Rico at Mayagüez, focusing on optical properties of doped glasses. Following a post-doctoral stint at New College of Florida, in 2011 he joined the Department of Chemistry at University of North Florida. In June 2015, he joined BASF Corporation (Union, NJ) as materials scientist to develop glasses for solar cells and inorganic coatings for Li-ion batteries. In August 2019 he joined Augusta University and in 2021 received the Visiting Faculty Award at SRNL to study nuclear waste glass simulants. He is currently at Georgia Southern University and also serves as Editorial Board Member for the journals Scientific Reports and Applied Sciences. | Teaching PhilosophyI believe teaching science involves communicating information in a clear and straightforward way without sacrificing or compromising reality and accuracy. It also seeks to develop skills in students with the objective of preparing them to become competent and responsible professionals/scientists. I consider critical thinking and a student-centered classroom to be key in the teaching-learning process. It is central to help the students in connecting new knowledge with existing one and integrate it into the cognitive structure to apply it. I believe promoting an environment of respect, trust, and responsibility in the classroom is essential for academic success. |
| Research Interests
| Center for Advanced Materials Science | GS-CAMS | ||||||||||
| jkelly@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/jacque-l-kelly-2 | Jacque L. | Kelly | Professor of Geology | 912-478-8677 | Herty 0105 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | School of Earth, Environment & Sustainability | Jacque L. Kelly is a Professor of Geology in the School of Earth, Environment and Sustainability. She teaches a variety of undergraduate and graduate courses for the Geosciences Program, where she strives to make complex topics engaging for students of all backgrounds. Her research focuses on using geochemical and geophysical tools to explore a variety of coastal processes. She is passionate about fostering student curiosity and hands-on learning in the classroom and in the field. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy focuses on fostering active engagement and critical thinking. I incorporate diverse teaching methods, including traditional lectures, flipped classrooms, case studies, and student response systems to accommodate different learning styles. By creating interactive learning environments, I encourage students to take ownership of their education, apply concepts to real-world problems, and develop lifelong skills for inquiry and collaboration. |
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| kfry@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/cah/philosophy/current-faculty-staff/dr-karin-fry/ | Karin | Fry | Professor of Philosophy | 912-478-7577 | Newton 3301B | Statesboro Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of Philosophy & Religious Studies | Karin Fry is a Professor of Philosophy at Georgia Southern University. She is the author of Life, Theory, and Group Identity in Hannah Arendt's Thought (2022), Beyond Religious Right and Secular Left: The Road to Compromise (2014), and Arendt: A Guide for the Perplexed (2009). She is the managing editor of Arendt Studies: A Journal on the Life, Work, and Legacy of Hannah Arendt. She teaches courses in Continental Philosophy, Philosophy of Art, and Political Philosophy. | Teaching PhilosophyIn my courses, I help students develop critical thinking and civil discourse skills by examining different philosophical beliefs in a supportive, inclusive, and engaging learning environment. Emphasizing the influence of ideas and their impact on the world, students gain clarity on their own beliefs and seek to understand viewpoints that differ from their own. |
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| smccarroll@georgiasouthern.edu | Sarah | McCarroll | Professor of Theatre | 912-478-5615 | Sanford Hall 3015 | Statesboro Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of Communication Arts | Dr. Sarah McCarroll is a creative scholar whose work centers on the intersection of actors’ bodies onstage and historical costume. She focuses on the theatre and drama of late-nineteenth-century England and Ireland and can often be found showing people pictures of her favorite stage costume – Ellen Terry’s 1888 Lady Macbeth gown, which is embroidered with beetle wings. Dr. McCarroll teaches courses in Script Analysis, Theatre History, Irish Theatre and Costume Design, and is the resident costume designer for the Theatre program. She spends her summers as the Costume Shop Manager and Wardrobe Supervisor for the Tony-Award-winning Utah Shakespeare Festival. | Teaching PhilosophyI think a lot about bodies, and to me the body is always the complete person – physical, intellectual, spiritual, and emotional in one place. Bodies are the essential tool of my creative scholarship and are central to my publications. They are ever-present in the students who share classroom space with me and with whom I work on productions. In all of my teaching, whether it’s in a classroom setting, or the lab environment of the costume shop, I hope to metaphorically bring bodies into the space: to support students as they build the skills and confidence to make their own ideas an integral part of the production process, and to provide every student with exemplars who they can recognize in the authors and theatrical practitioners we study. |
| Research Interests
| Center for Irish Research & Teaching, Center for Women, Gender, & Sexuality Studies | |||||||||||
| skersey@georgiasouthern.edu | Scott | Kersey | Professor of Mathematics | 912-478-1963 | MP 2308 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Mathematical Sciences | Dr. Kersey's research focuses on Approximation Theory and Computational Science, with expertise in Splines. His work includes function Approximation and Optimization using B-Spline Quasi-Interpolants on Tensor Product and Sparse Grids, as well as the Mathematics of Curves, Surfaces, and Machine Learning applications. In his Numerical Analysis course, students engage with Matrix Factorizations (SVD, QR) and tools for Image Compression, PCA, Classification, and Least Squares. Dr. Kersey also oversees the LaTeX Thesis Template for graduate students and manages the WeBWorK server for undergraduates. | Teaching PhilosophyMy primary goal in teaching is to make complex mathematical concepts accessible to students while equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed for success. I reinforce their understanding through low-stakes, take-home assessments, such as homework, online assignments, written exercises, take-home midterm exams, and programming projects. This approach promotes active learning, encouraging students to engage deeply with the material and better prepare for high-stakes assessments. |
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| mmbyrd@georgiasouthern.edu | Megan | Byrd | Associate Professor, Sport and Exercise Psychology Program Director | 912-478-2274 | Hollis 1103b | Statesboro Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Department of Health Science & Kinesiology | Dr. Megan Byrd, CMPC, is an Associate Professor of Sport and Exercise Psychology and a member of the University Mental Performance Team. Dr. Byrd is also the Co-Director of Mental Performance for South Georgia Tormenta FC. She teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in sport and exercise psychology and supervises graduate students' practicum and internships. She is involved in many committees for the Association of Applied Sport Psychology and the Executive Board of APA Div 47. Dr. Byrd has a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Eastern Kentucky University, a master’s degree in sport studies from Miami University, a master’s degree in counseling and a Ph.D. in sport and exercise psychology from West Virginia University. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy is rooted in creating a positive classroom community, being a scholar-teacher, and utilizing application-based teaching techniques. |
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| czhao@georgiasouthern.edu | Chunshan | Zhao | Professor | 912-478-0088 | MP 2305 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Mathematical Sciences | Chunshan Zhao is a Professor in the College of Science and Mathematics, Department of Mathematical Sciences on the Statesboro campus of Georgia Southern University. | Teaching PhilosophyEvery student has their own unique talents, skills, challenges, and background. Motivated students learn best. We must give every student equal opportunities to learn and grow. |
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| kharbaugh@georgiasouthern.edu | Kristina | Harbaugh | Doctor | 912-344-3017 | Solms Hall | Armstrong Campus | Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health | Department of Health Policy & Community Health | Service on committees directed at serving under-represented students and advancing inclusive excellence.Participation in programs aimed at increasing the pipeline of under-represented groups entering higher education.Mentoring of under-represented students.Address barriers facing under-represented groups in access to education, health care, economy, social mobility, or participation in creative endeavors. | Teaching PhilosophyMy goal as an educator is to incorporate interdisciplinary content, inquiry based learning, and interactive teaching strategies in the classroom. I feel that this strategy is imperative in helping students in my classes develop the skills and self confidence that they need to become successful public healthcare professionals. |
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| lpadgett@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=DKsIeNkAAAAJ&hl=en | Lea W | Padgett | Principal Lecturer | 912-344-2946 | Science Center 2105 | Armstrong Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biochemistry, Chemistry & Physics | Lea Padgett received her Ph.D. from Clemson University researching pyrrole-based cannabinoids. This was followed by a one-year postdoctoral fellowship at North Carolina State University studying post-translational modifications of G-protein coupled receptors by NMR and modeling ligand binding in the CB1 receptor. She has worked for Armstrong State University and now Georgia Southern University since 2006. Her main teaching focus is general chemistry and science courses for non-STEM majors. |
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| rbohler@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/robert-m-bohler-jr-2 | Robert | Bohler | Assistant Professor | 912-478-1259 | Hendricks Hall Room 2014 | Statesboro Campus | Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health | Department of Health Policy & Community Health | Dr. Bohler is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Health Policy & Community Health at the Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health at Georgia Southern University. He completed his Ph.D. in Social Policy with a focus in behavioral health policy at the Heller School for Social Policy and Management at Brandeis University as a T32 National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism pre-doctoral fellow. He is trained in epidemiology, health services research, and health policy. Dr. Bohler has a strong passion for working with colleagues and communities to develop innovative responses to the addiction and overdose crisis in the United States. | Teaching PhilosophyI would define my teaching philosophy as being committed to preparing the next generation of public health professionals and leaders to improve population health. |
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| Center for Addiction Recovery | ||||||||||
| dnazaruk@georgiasouthern.edu | Dziyana | Nazaruk | Associate Professor | 912-344-2686 | Solms 109 C | Armstrong Campus | Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health | Department of Health Policy & Community Health | Dr. Nazaruk became a faculty member at GSU in January 2018. She also serves as an Internship Coordinator for the graduate students at JPHCOPH. Dr. Nazaruk implemented multiple qualitative research projects in the past 10 years that have focused on designing and implementing community-based interventions and improving health and wellness in women and children locally and globally. Dr. Nazaruk has spent the past ten years working on community-driven actions to examine health outcomes while working with rural and hard-to-reach populations and mentoring students to practice in community organizations. Those efforts have contributed to her commitment to addressing the social determinants of health and promoting health equity. | Teaching PhilosophyDr. Nazaruk is dedicated to providing a learning environment that is exciting and empowering for all students. She believes that it is important to treat each student as an individual and to continue her professional growth. She treats her students with respect and encourages each student to express their individual needs. Dr. Nazaruk is an avid supporter of diversity among students and she feels she has much to learn from them as they share their unique perspectives. She also believe that students will be more successful, if they are actively engaged in the pursuit of knowledge. As a means of facilitating this active engagement, Dr. Nazaruk implements assignments to help students apply new skills and tools in practice. |
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| mbrown@georgiasouthern.edu | Matthew | Brown | Senior Lecturer of Mathematics; Director, SMART Center | 912.344.3165 | Science Center 133 | Armstrong Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Mathematical Sciences | Matt Brown is an alum of the University of Kentucky and is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Mathematical Sciences. He teaches math classes on the Armstrong campus and online. He is also the Director of the Science & Mathematics Academic Resource & Tutorial (SMART) Center that provides free peer-led tutoring in Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics, and Statistics to Georgia Southern students on the Armstrong campus and in a virtual environment. | Teaching PhilosophyMy goal as an educator is to have a classroom focused on the students. Giving all students every opportunity to succeed in class is my goal. Georgia Southern students are involved with countless other things in their lives such as full-time jobs, families, and adjusting to moving to a new city for college. This, however, does not mean being a pushover and changing expectations. It is my belief that every student that passes my class should be able to continue to any other higher level math class at Georgia Southern and not be at a disadvantage to the rest of the class. Bringing standards up to the highest level and motivating students to achieve them are the keys to fulfillment of these expectations. |
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| jccolongaud@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/j-checo-col%C3%B3n-gaud-2 | J. Checo | Colón-Gaud | Professor of Biology; Associate Dean, Jack N. Averitt College of Graduate Studies | 912-478-0053 | Biological Sciences Building, Room 3328 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics, Jack N. Averitt College of Graduate Studies | Department of Biology | I'm a freshwater ecologist interested in the role that consumers play in organic matter processing and how they may influence stream ecosystem functioning. My research is directed towards understanding the ecology of freshwater systems, particularly focusing on food web structure and organic matter dynamics. Most of my recent and ongoing work has focused on tropical headwater streams, coastal plain rivers and wetlands in the southeastern US. | Teaching PhilosophyI incorporate active learning and inquiry-based methods, along with traditional methods, while presenting information in a variety of ways to suit the various learning styles of my students. I also strive to incorporate local and current issues that relate to course material as much as possible, as this can make class discussions more relevant and interesting to students. |
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| beross@georgiasouthern.edu | Barbara | Ross | Senior Lecturer | 912-877-1914 | Liberty Campus, 118 | Liberty Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Mathematical Sciences | Barbara E. Ross is an alum of Georgia Southern University and is a Senior Lecturer of Mathematics in the Department of Mathematical Sciences. Ms. Ross teaches core math courses on the Liberty campus. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy centers on the idea that all students can learn and appreciate mathematics. I encourage students to use collaboration and active learning strategies to foster a growth mindset toward the learning of mathematics. |
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| wdhury@georgiasouthern.edu | https://works.bepress.com/wasimul-chowdhury/ | Wasimul Q. | Chowdhury | Associate Professor | 912-478-4731 | Natural Sciences Building, Room 2204B | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biology | My name is Wasimul Q. Chowdhury and I am an Associate Professor (NTT) in the Department of Biology. I received my Ph.D. from Osaka University in 1996. I teach different ranges of biology courses which include microbiology, concepts of biology, principles of biology, etc. I have been teaching Georgia Southern for the last 11 years. My aim is to make every student of mine an avid fan of biology! | Teaching PhilosophyI believe learning is a process, not a product. Learning involves change in knowledge, beliefs, behaviors, or attitudes. This change unfolds over time. Learning is the direct result of how students interpret and respond to their experiences and conscious and unconscious, past, and present. To enhance students’ learning process, I believe that it is my duty to provide a healthy learning environment. So, my goal is to create an engaging, student-centered, and creatively inducing learning environment. To achieve these learning outcomes, I design my course learning objectives to encompass critical thinking and application of skills. To achieve this goal, I attempt to create a classroom atmosphere that helps with such learning. |
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| jvillavargas@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/jorge-villa-vargas-2 | Jorge | Villa-Vargas | Lecturer | 912-478-0051 | Math/Physics Building, Room 2043 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biochemistry, Chemistry & Physics | Jorge Villa-Vargas is s Lecturer in the Department of Biochemistry, Chemistry, and Physics at Georgia Southern University. He joined Georgia Southern in 2013. His research interest is centered on the evolution of galaxies and the effect of galactic interactions using computer simulations. | Teaching PhilosophyIn what ways should my students be different as a result of completing my courses? My compromise as a teacher is to facilitate a student’s learning experience which helps them understand fundamental concepts and principles of physics, and apply them to problems in an organized and logical way. I wanna help them to become better thinkers and problem solvers! The acquired knowledge and skills must contribute to their professional and personal success, when used as tools to appreciate things, evaluate situations and make decisions. Students should discover science as the best instrument we have to understand the things around us and find joy in that understanding. |
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| dnivens@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/delana-gajdosik-schartner | Delana | Gajdosik Schartner | Professor of Chemistry, Assistant Vice President for Strategic Initiatives, Executive Director, Institute for Innovative and Integrated Studies | 912-344-2954 | Georgia Southern Research Labs #1002, Mowhawk Street Savannah | Armstrong Campus, Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biochemistry, Chemistry & Physics | Dr. Schartner leads initiatives to enhance adult and online learner enrollment, degree completion programs, and workforce development, while also serving as State Authorization coordinator. Since 2000, she has secured over $7.6 million in grants for STEM education and diversity. Her research includes 24 peer-reviewed publications and over 100 presentations. A graduate of the USG Executive Leadership Institute, she held numerous administrative roles at Georgia Southern, including as a former Dean of COSM. She helped create three degree programs at Georgia Southern and co-founded the Alliance for Women in STEM and the DEI Collaborative. |
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| lyu@georgiasouthern.edu | Lili | Yu | KEP endowed Chair, Professor | 912-478-1278 | Hendricks Hall 1013 | Statesboro Campus | Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health | Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology & Environmental Health Sciences | I am KEP endowed Chair and a professor in JPHCOPH at Georgia Southern University. I graduated from The Ohio State University, department of Statistics in 2007. Then I joined Biostatistics discipline in JPHCOPH at Georgia Southern University as an assistant professor. My main research is survival data analysis. We develop new techniques for heteroscedastic survival data based on the accelerated failure time model. We also analyze survival data to investigate the effects of risk factors on the survival time based on Cox model. | Teaching PhilosophyI believe teaching is about inspiring students to think critically and develop a love for learning. I use active learning techniques, such as group discussions and problem-based learning, to ensure deep engagement with the material. I connect theoretical concepts to real-world applications to make learning more relatable. I’m committed to creating an inclusive classroom that values diverse perspectives and adapts to student needs. I provide continuous assessment and feedback, helping students reflect and grow. My goal is to foster a supportive environment for lifelong learning and critical thinking. |
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| lancemcbrayer@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=bj0jkOQAAAAJ&hl=en&oi=ao | Lance | McBrayer | Professor & Curator of Herpetology | 912-478-0545 | Biological Sciences 1160 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biology | McBrayer is an integrative organismal ecologist interested in understanding how phenotypes respond to natural selection and variation among habitats. | Teaching PhilosophyMcBrayer teaches courses in herpetology, comparative vertebrate anatomy, and evolution. He strives to provide challenging, real-world experiences for students so that they may develop skills sets that are applicable to any career path. |
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| Oliver Institute for Coastal Plain Science | ||||||||||
| jhodgson@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=bEk_tlgAAAAJ&hl=en | Jay | Hodgson | Professor | 912-344-3043 | Science Center 1004 | Armstrong Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biology | Dr. Jay Hodgson is a Professor in the Department of Biology and teaches a mixture of undergraduate and graduate courses covering a variety of subjects including Introductory Biology, Microbiology, Ecology, and Evolution. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy centers around building trust with students and promoting their success. I teach the way I would want to be taught by being transparent and enthusiastic to help encourage students to feel safe to ask questions, follow their curiosity, and challenge themselves. I want to instill a sense of wonder of the natural world and teach students to critically think like biologists so they can make informed decisions as citizens and excel in the workplace as employees and leaders. |
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| sopoku@georgiasouthern.edu | Samuell | Opoku | Professor | 912-478-6985 | Hendricks Hall | Statesboro Campus | Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health | Department of Health Policy & Community Health | Samuel T. Opoku, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Health Policy and Community Health, Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health. Dr. Opoku received his Ph.D. in Health Services Research Administration and Policy from The University of Nebraska Medical Center. Dr. Opoku’s research has sought to generate actionable evidence that would improve the health and healthcare access of disadvantaged populations through stakeholder engagement and the use of innovative research methods. He has disseminated his work through publications in reputable journals, policy briefs and technical reports, and presentations at several scientific and practice conferences as well as to state and local community leaders and policymakers. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy is to approach my duty as a teacher and an agent of societal change, focusing on nurturing critical thinking and providing students with the tools needed to question, innovate, and create solutions to the world’s problems. |
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| ldbrown@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=G4Q4gKoAAAAJ&hl=en&oi=sra | Lisa | Brown | Associate Professor | 912-478-5857 | Biological Sciences 3358 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biology | Dr. Lisa D. Brown earned a Ph.D. from Louisiana State University and completed postdoctoral training at Vanderbilt University. She currently serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of Biology, where she instructs undergraduate and graduate courses in microbiology and immunology. | Teaching PhilosophyIn my approach to teaching biology, I aim to cultivate a deep and thorough comprehension of the subject matter. This involves delving into the intricacies of biological concepts and processes, and emphasizing their relevance to real-world scenarios. By fostering a holistic understanding, students can develop a strong foundation that enables them to apply their knowledge effectively in practical situations. |
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| James H. Oliver, Jr., Institute for Coastal Plain Science | ||||||||||
| tjroberts@georgiasouthern.edu | Theaonica Joy | Roberts | Clinical Coordinator, Radiation Therapy Program | 912-344-2834 | Armstrong Center 237 | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Department of Clinical Science | My name is Theaonica Joy Roberts. I'm the Clinical Coordinator of the Radiation Therapy Program for the Department of Clinical Sciences. I have a Masters degree in Public Health and a Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Technology in Radiation therapy, both from Armstrong Atlantic State University. I have been a radiation therapist for 23 years beginning my career at Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, FL and returned to Savannah at the Anderson Cancer Institute at Memorial Health. My experiences have created a passion in dedicating my time, and talent to fostering a positive, compassionate and engaging learning environment for students. My free time is dedicated to my husband and two children, community service and long walks. Philippians 4:6-7 | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy is grounded in a commitment to fostering a supportive, engaging, and ethically responsible learning environment. I aim to empower future healthcare professionals to be knowledgeable, compassionate, and adaptable, ready to meet the challenges of a rapidly evolving field. |
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| kpatton@georgiasouthern.edu | Kelly | Patton | Assistant Professor of Physics | 912-344-2920 | Science Cetner, Rm 2020 | Armstrong Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biochemistry, Chemistry & Physics | I have been at GSU since the fall of 2019. Before that I was an assistant professor at Georgia Gwinnett College. Before that I completed three postdocs: one in Germany, one at LSU, and one in South Korea. | Teaching PhilosophyPeople learn by doing. |
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| sgremillion@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=MVmfiwIAAAAJ&hl=en | Sara | Gremillion | Professor | 912-344-2671 | Science Center 1016 | Armstrong Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biology | My research and teaching interest is in fungal biology. | Teaching PhilosophyI aim to provide inclusive instruction to all students. |
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| cchamp@georgiasouthern.edu | Charles | Champ | Professor | 912-478-5477 | Math/Physics room 3308 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Mathematical Sciences | I am originally from Arkansas growing up in the back waters of the Mississippi Delta. I received my PhD from the University of Louisiana-Lafayette in 1986, a MA degree in Statistics from the University of Missouri-Columbia in 1982, and a BS and MS in Mathematics from Arkansas State University in Jonesboro, Arkansas 1971 and 1973, and a AA degree from Southern Baptist College now Williams Baptist University in 1968. I begin my teaching career as a high school mathematics teacher in a small high school in Brookland High School in Arkansas. Although it has been thirty-seven years since obtaining my Ph.D., my research interest is mainly in the area of statistical quality control. I have published several papers in this area. | Teaching PhilosophyI am interested in providing instruction at all levels including supervising student research projects. Over the years, I have taught a wide variety of statistics courses. These experiences influence courses that I presently teach. I routinely teach an elementary statistics courses. On occasions, a senior course in statistics; and as we have students, various graduate courses. Further, I am actively involved in our Statistics Group’s Seminar Series which supports the academic growth of our faculty. I plan to continue these activities. |
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| Statistical Consulting Unit | |||||||||||
| rkvance@georgiasouthern.edu | scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/r-kelly-vance-2 | Robert Kelly | Vance | Professor of Geology | 912-478-5353 | Herty 2116c | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | School of Earth, Environment & Sustainability | Robert Kelly Vance completed B.S. and M.S. degrees in geology at the University of Kentucky in Lexington and worked at the Institute for Mining and Minerals Research conducting Devonian oil shale research before entering doctoral studies at the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology. Dr. Vance teaches Environmental Geology labs, and Mineralogy, Petrology, Field Methods, and Economic Geology courses for geology majors on the Statesboro campus. Dr. Vance has taught field-based conservation and environmental geology courses on St. Catherines Island where he continues saltwater intrusion research with colleagues. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching style includes building a “foundation” knowledge of geological features, principles and processes followed by application of this knowledge base to recognition, interpretation, critical thinking, and problem solving. The application of geology to understand and appreciate the natural processes that shape our planet, and local environment is essential to my teaching. Field trips in advanced geology courses, generate enthusiasm and camaraderie in the student cohort and appreciation for nature and the science of Geology. My teaching integrates lectures with the development of practical lab, field, research and communication skills to graduate students equipped to begin a professional career or graduate studies. |
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| leege@georgiasouthern.edu | https://sites.google.com/a/georgiasouthern.edu/leege_lissa/ | Lissa M. | Leege | Professor of Biology | 912-478-0800 | Biological Sciences | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biology | Lissa M. Leege is a Professor of Biology, trained as plant ecologist with an interest in threats to biodiversity and ecosystem restoration. Current work focuses on 1) sand dune ecology and restoration on Tybee Island and 2) the impacts of non-native species invasions in wetlands. Dr. Leege teaches environmental biology, botany, plant ecology and sustainability-related courses and has enjoyed the opportunity to teach study abroad in Italy and Ireland. She is involved in sustainability-related service at the local and state level. | Teaching PhilosophyThe driving force behind Dr. Leege’s teaching has always been to engage her students in the process of science and to teach critical thinking skills that will outlast any memory of course content. In recent years her key learning outcomes have also expanded to include engaging students in the development and implementation of solutions to sustainability challenges. The approach to these learning outcomes varies by course level, but includes a diversity of teaching strategies (experiential learning, original research projects, service-learning, etc.) that speak to the different learning styles and seek to engage every student. |
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| meimeilin@georgiasouthern.edu | Meimei | Lin | Associate Professor of Geography | 912-344-2974 | Science Center 2009 | Armstrong Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | School of Earth, Environment & Sustainability | Meimei Lin is an Associate Professor of Geography in the School of Earth, Environment & Sustainability and an affiliate faculty member at the Institute of Coastal Plain Science. She is a broadly trained geographer and environmental scientist who utilizes mathematical, statistical, and geospatial technology to study human-environment interactions, focusing on land change science, urban analytics, regional planning, agricultural sustainability, and corporate social responsibility. Dr. Lin teaches a variety of geography courses, mentors students, and actively engages in community outreach. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy focuses on developing students' critical thinking and self-directed learning skills to foster independence and lifelong learning. I integrate lectures, hands-on exercises, discussions, and projects to connect concepts with real-world applications in an engaging, student-centered environment. I continuously refine my courses using student feedback, clear grading rubrics, and professional development to enhance clarity and effectiveness. |
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| smateer@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=RMcEABMAAAAJ&hl=en | Scott C | Mateer | Professor of Biology | 912-344-3101 | SC 1021 | Armstrong Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biology | I am a first-generation college student and was the first in my family to earn a bachelor’s degree. I went to graduate school with the sole purpose of becoming a biology professor, aiming to join an institution focused on student learning. This is why I decided to join the biology faculty at Armstrong Atlantic State University. While I now find myself at an institution striving to become a research university, my focus remains dedicated to undergraduate education in the sciences. | Teaching PhilosophyI strive to create a student-centered classroom by using evidence-based practices that emphasize hands-on activities, team projects, and real-world problem-solving. My goal is to have students take ownership of their learning and to reflect on how they are learning so that they become the lifelong learners needed to be successful throughout their academic and professional careers. |
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| grich@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/gregg-rich | Gregg | Rich | Associate Professor of Sport Management; Undergraduate Coordinator of Sport Management Program | 912-478-2583 | Hollis Building, 1119B | Statesboro Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Department of Health Science & Kinesiology | During his time at Georgia Southern, Dr. Rich has taught 15 different sport management courses, teaching at both the undergraduate and graduate level. His primary areas of expertise are sport marketing, endorsement/sponsorship, event management and sales. He has been recognized for his teaching contributions twice, receiving the Waters College of Health Professions Jr. Faculty Teaching Award and the Waters College of Health Professions Sr. Faculty Teaching Award for the 2019-2020 and 2022-2023 academic years respectively. Dr. Rich also serves on several university and departmental committees, and received the Waters College of Health Professions Senior Faculty Service Award for the 2023-2024 academic year. | Teaching PhilosophyWhile Dr. Rich desires his students to achieve high marks in the courses he teaches, his focus more on preparing them for career success. This long-term perspective influences his teaching philosophy, which is founded on 1) fostering an environment that is focused on exhibiting proactive, professional accountability and 2) developing critical thinking skills through use of intense, practical application projects. Often, Dr. Rich uses scaffolding techniques--the construction of skill-development through increasingly difficult, yet related, activities--to present material from a conceptual/theoretical state to a practical application. |
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| naggarwal@georgiasouthern.edu | Neelam | Aggarwal | Senior Lecturer | 912-4782375 | MP 2043A | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Mathematical Sciences | I joined Georgia Southern in 2012 as a Math faculty. Currently I serve as a Senior Lecturer in Mathematics. My teaching assignments include both in-person as well as online classes over a wide range of courses, such as Calculus I, Survey of Calculus, Trigonometry, College Algebra, and Math Modeling. I have been involved in various COSM committees, such as Gateway to Completion (G2C) for Calculus, Core Curriculum Committee, Scholarship (Statesboro campus), Course Assessment coordinator for Math 1113/1112, (Pre-Calculus/ College Trigonometry), Faculty Grievance Committee, COSM Faculty Senate (as an Alternate member), and Co-chair of Junior Varsity Math Competition hosted by the Math Department of Georgia Southern University. | Teaching PhilosophyI see my role as a facilitator, encouraging collaboration among students through group activities and study sessions. I implement class activities rooted in teamwork so that the students can work on course-related problems together in groups in class and outside by forming study groups. I promote the use of the free tutoring facilities offered by the university and by the Math department, which significantly boosts student success. After over 30 years of teaching across different locations, I have been blessed to experience smiling students walking out of the last class session with a sense of pride in their accomplishments and the ability to successfully advance to their future endeavors. |
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| ccosta@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/cah/art/faculty-staff/ | Cynthia | Costa | Principal Lecturer of Art History | 912-344-2699 | Solms Hall, 214A | Armstrong Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Betty Foy Sanders Department of Art | Cynthia Costa specializes in ancient Egyptian art and architecture. She earned an undergraduate degree in painting in 2000 and a terminal degree in Art History in 2009, focusing on Egyptian art. Since then, she has served as Principal Lecturer of Art History at GSU, where she has developed and taught a wide range of courses on ancient art and architecture. With multiple certifications in online education and best-practice teaching, graduate teaching status, numerous presentations, and notable publications, Cynthia’s research has also a range of historical subjects speaking to her depth and breadth of knowledge which she has contributed to resources in major art history textbooks. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy is based on the belief that art history provides insight into human experience, allowing students to explore how cultures express identities, beliefs, and values through visual art. With a focus cultural and other contextual traditions, I aim to inspire curiosity and critical thinking about art’s role in history. I emphasize active dialogue and engagement, showing students the relevance of art history today. Visual literacy is a core goal, teaching students to analyze visual media in cultural contexts. Inclusivity, adaptability, and integrating research into teaching are key, encouraging students to develop their own interpretations and become lifelong learners. |
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| fturner@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/felicity-turner-2 | Felicity M. | Turner | Associate Professor History; Provost Faculty Fellow for Interdisciplinary Education | 912-344.3611 | Hawes 105B | Armstrong Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of History | Felicity M. Turner is an Associate Professor of US History. Before coming to Georgia Southern, Dr. Turner was a Law and Society Fellow at the Maurer School of Law at Indiana University in Bloomington; the Law and Society Fellow at the University of Wisconsin Law School in Madison; and a postdoctoral fellow at the U.S. Studies Center at the University of Sydney in Australia. In addition to her 2022 book, Proving Pregnancy: Gender, Law, and Medical Knowledge in Nineteenth-Century America, she has published several articles and essays on the legal history of reproduction in the nineteenth-century U.S., one of which received the 2014 Nupur Chaudhuri Award from the Coordinating Council of Women in History. | Teaching PhilosophyAs an historian, I demonstrate how a range of historical actors contributed in meaningful ways to the shaping of the American past, even as they were denied access to formal structures of power and state governance. This approach informs my teaching, in which my overarching objective is to challenge all learners to rethink the conventional historical narratives with which they are so familiar. |
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| Center for Women, Gender, & Sexuality Studies, Institute for Innovative and Integrated Studies (I3S) | ||||||||||
| wtu@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/wei-tu-2 | Wei | Tu | Professor of Geography and Geographic Information Science | 912-478-5233 | 2100 E Herty | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | School of Earth, Environment & Sustainability | Dr. Tu teaches GIS and regional and thematic geography courses at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Dr. Tu’s recent research focuses on the influence of place and space effects on health outcomes. He has authored or co-authored over 50 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters and served as the mapping supervisor for the Metro Atlanta Equity Atlas project in 2012. Dr. Tu was selected as a Governor’s Teaching Fellow for the University System of Georgia in 2019. He received the International Association of Chinese Professionals in Geographic Information Sciences Education Excellence Award in 2021, and he was a Social Determinants of Health & Place Fellow at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 2024. | Teaching PhilosophyI believe teachers should empower students to become life-long learners, creative thinkers, passionate practitioners, and effective communicators. Education is a lifelong journey, measured by students' ability to learn independently and use their talents for the greater social good. Teachers must foster critical thinking, encouraging students to see the world from diverse perspectives. I advocate for maps as vital tools for understanding global issues and developing spatial thinking skills. I value experiential learning. As the Chinese proverb says, 'It is better to travel ten thousand miles than to read ten thousand books,' highlighting the importance of real-world experience over theoretical knowledge. |
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| Institute for Health Logistics & Analytics | ||||||||||
| yan@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Yan-Wu-62 | Yan | Wu | Professor of Applied Mathematics | 912-478-0382 | MP2325 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Mathematical Sciences | Dr. Yan Wu is a Professor of Applied Mathematics at Georgia Southern University. His research interests include adaptive control of nonlinear dynamical systems with uncertainties, fractional-order dynamical systems and control, and machine learning. He has been collaborating with scholars across the disciplines such as electrical, mechanical, and biochemical engineering. He actively engages students in research in addition to teaching undergraduate and graduate courses. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy centers on fostering an inclusive learning environment where each student is encouraged to develop learning skills on a daily basis. I uphold the value of student success centered instruction, not only their success in my classes, but also prepare students to succeed at the next level. |
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| akonkle@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/amanda-konkle-2 | Amanda | Konkle | Associate Professor | 912-344-2625 | Gamble Hall 131 | Armstrong Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of English | Dr. Konkle is an Associate Professor of Film Studies and English in the English Department. She teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in film and television studies and literature, both online and in-person. Her courses satisfy degree requirements for students majoring in English, Multimedia and Film Production, and Interdisciplinary Studies. Dr. Konkle’s research centers around classical Hollywood film, gender and media, and adaptation studies. | Teaching PhilosophyI encourage learners to hone their skills in thinking and communicating their thoughts through discussion and encourage an ongoing and balanced class dialogue. Through opportunities to revise their work, learners can push themselves to grow as thinkers and communicators. In my classes, learners share their interpretations, use evidence to support those interpretations, and evaluate the merits of others’ interpretations. I encourage learners to consider audience and purpose and try their hand at multiple forms of communication, including multimodal communication. |
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| Center for Women, Gender, & Sexuality Studies | ||||||||||
| kveronee@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/kenna-e-veronee | Kenna | Veronee | Assistant Professor | 912-478-5845 | Foy 1004 | Statesboro Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Fred & Dinah Gretsch School of Music | Kenna Veronee is an alum of Florida State University and is an Assistant Professor of Music Education in the Fred and Dinah Gretsch School of Music where she also serves as the Coordinator of Music Education. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy centers on professional preparation. I want my music education students to be as prepared as possible to enter their future classroom upon graduation and believe that the careful planning and execution of their curriculum content and experiences sets them up for that success. |
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| gmoore@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/georgianne-moore | Georgianne | Moore | Professor of Ecohydrology | 912-478-8660 | Biological Sciences 2266 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biology | The Moore Ecohydrology Lab seeks to understand how land management and global change affects the water cycle. Distinctly interdisciplinary, our research spans many types of ecosystems from coastal wetlands to tropical montane forests, and utilizes advanced measurement tools. An overarching theme of the Moore Lab is to narrow the knowledge gap between ecohydrology and climate research. Our current research focuses on impacts of sea level rise on barrier island forests. We are developing novel methods to better understand how coastal forests respond to saltwater intrusion, and how salt stress impacts tree health and function. Ultimately the goal of this research is to help protect coastal communities from flooding. | Teaching PhilosophyBy design, I link my teaching, research, and service, by exposing students to current priorities for land management and ecosystem restoration. Further, I share with students my networks with management agencies to open doors for employment and advanced degrees. These linkages elevate the impact of my teaching as evidenced by outcomes through student success. My courses emphasize high-impact learning. Hands-on activities provide opportunities for students to observe and engage in scientific practice. Writing assignments help students think and communicate like professionals. It is within this writing framework that students gain enthusiasm and insight for topics that link science to society. |
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| James H. Oliver, Jr., Institute for Coastal Plain Science, COSM Core Research Lab, Institute for Water and Health | ||||||||||
| jthornton@georgiasouthern.edu | James | Thornton | MAJ | Bldg 262 (Military Science) | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Military Science | MAJ Thornton was born and raised in East Bernard, TX. He has a Bachelors in Political Science from Texas A&M University and a Masters in Military Operational Art and Science from the Air Command and Staff College. His military education includes the Artillery Officer Basic Course, Artillery Captain’s Career Course, and the Air command and Staff College. MAJ Thornton commissioned as an artillery officer through the Officer Candidate School on 6 January 2005 as a college option. MAJ Thornton has deployed to both Iraq and Afghanistan and has served forward deployed in both Germany and the Republic of Korea. | Teaching PhilosophyEfficient, collaborative, teambuilding thru experiential learning |
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| ccutler@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?view_op=list_works&hl=en&user=mA0CiygAAAAJ | Christopher | Cutler | Professor | 912-478-7175 | 2109C Herty Building | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biology | My research interests concern the role that genes play in controlling physiological processes. The particular processes I currently study include the systems fish employ to control osmoregulation, and in particular, ion, water and urea transport. My research career has encompassed various biochemical and physiological approaches including molecular genetics, molecular biology, cell biology, cell and molecular physiology, zoology, ichthyology, mammalian and aquatic biology, and I have mainly specialized in research on euryhaline teleost fish (eels; Anguilla sp.) and elasmobranchs (Spiny Dogfish; Squalus acanthias). Previously I have also worked on cultured kidney cells, Mice and Rats, Tilapia, Salmon, Sea Bass, Turbot, Killifish and Hagfish. | Teaching PhilosophyTo ensure students learn the maximum that I can get them to learn, as they will need it for their future careers. |
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| btankersley@georgiasouthern.edu | Benjamin | Tankersley | Assistant Director of Graduate Programs | 912-344-3413 | Hawes Hall 110D/Parker College of Business 3305 | Armstrong Campus, Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Graduate Programs Office | Benjamin Tankersley is the Assistant Director of Graduate Programs for the Parker College of Business. His main responsibilities program-level assessment of Georgia Southern's MBA programs, advising current students, developing student support infrastructure, and assisting in managing the Graduate Programs Office. |
| B.A. Journalism, University of Georgia | |||||||||||||
| johnmurphy@georgiasouthern.edu | John | Murphy | Director of Development - Parker College of Business | 912-478-2277 | College of Business Building 2200a | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | University Advancement | (From LinkedIn) An experienced leader with a demonstrated history of success in unique and eclectic settings both in Higher Education and Professional Levels. Skilled in Management, Development, Sports Psychology, Recruitment, Public Speaking, Curriculum Development and various Media formats. An author of two books and an instructional DVD series, is also a nationally recognized speaker and clinician. A lifelong learner who has earned multiple professional certifications, a Master of Science Degree in Kinesiology, a member of Pi Lambda Theta for Educators, and currently in the dissertation phase of a Doctoral Degree in Curriculum Studies at Georgia Southern University. | Teaching PhilosophyDo no harm. |
| Research Interests
| Philanthropy | |||||||||||
| cfaires@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/parker/lscm/christopher-chris-faires/ | Christopher | Faires | Assistant Professor of Logistics and Supply Chain Management | 912-478-5488 | PCOB 3352 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Logistics & Supply Chain Management | Chris Faires’s primary research area lies at the intersection of reverse logistics and risk management, focusing on how firms can reduce uncertainty in the return process. Other research areas include last-mile logistics, vehicle routing, and simulation modeling. Prior to joining academia, Chris worked professionally as a web developer for both nonprofit and fitness equipment companies. | Teaching PhilosophyIn the classroom, Chris strives to help students recognize their role as participants in supply chains and understand how logistics and supply chain management have a daily impact on their lives. |
| Research Interests
| Omnichannel retail | Last-mile logistics | |||||||||
| jfrederick@georgiasouthern.edu | Joshua | Frederick | Assistant Professor | 912-478-5577 | Parker College of Business Room 3344 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Finance | Joshua Frederick is an assistant professor of finance at Georgia Southern University. He received his BBA (finance) and MBA from Georgia Southern University and his Ph.D. (risk management and insurance) from The University of Georgia. Frederick’s research focuses on internal financing, mergers and acquisitions, health insurance, social insurance, and insurance regulation. Published research outlets include The North American Actuarial Journal, The European Journal of Operational Research, The Journal of Insurance Issues, and Risk Management and Insurance Review. Prior to his career in academia, Frederick worked in banking and insurance. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching goals are to share the knowledge in my area of expertise, to provide my students with applicable real world skills, and to continuously work to adapt and improve my courses so the material delivered fits the ever changing educational landscape. |
| MBA, Georgia Southern University | BBA, Georgia Southern University | Research Interests
| Health insurance | Social insurance | Insurance regulation | |||||||
| hannamd@georgiasouthern.edu | Mark | Hanna | Professor | 912-478-5511 | PCOB 3327 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Logistics & Supply Chain Management | A native of Darjeeling, India, Mark Hanna, Ph.D., is professor of operations and supply chain management in the Parker College of Business at Georgia Southern University. He formerly served as associate dean of the College and chair of the Department of Information Systems and Logistics. He was on the faculty at the Richard T. Farmer School of Business Administration at Miami University from 1990–2001. He earned a Ph.D. in industrial management and an MS in management from Clemson University. | Teaching PhilosophyIf there is no impact on the learner the teacher has not taught. As a result, it is imperative that the teacher adopt a learner-centered development-focused approach (in contrast with the historic norms of instructor-centered content-focused approaches). Because information is readily available from many sources and can be delivered asynchronously with ease, given reasonable class-sizes university instructors' allocation of effort should be heavily weighted toward engaging students with active applications of course content, assessment of learning, providing learner-focused personalized feedback, and ongoing improvement of instructional content and practice. |
| M.S., Management (Clemson University) | B.A., Mathematics (Letourneau University) | Research Interests
| Operations Management | Quality Management | Instructional effectiveness | |||||||
| dpham@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/duong-pham-2 | Duong Katie | Pham | Associate Professor of Finance | 912-478-6015 | PCOB 2238 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Finance | Dr. Duong “Katie” Pham, Ph.D., is an associate professor of finance at Georgia Southern University’s Parker College of Business. She holds a Ph.D. in Finance from the University of Central Florida. With a background as an auditor and business consultant, Dr. Pham smoothly transitioned into academia. Her research interests span corporate governance, executive compensation, corporate finance, and real estate. Dr. Pham’s scholarly contributions have been published in respected peer-reviewed finance journals such as the Journal of Corporate Finance, Journal of Business Finance and Accounting, and Journal of Real Estate Finance and Economics. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy consists of three important goals. The first goal is to be effective in communicating, transferring and sharing my knowledge with students. The second goal is to always be clear and specific in my requirements from student. My third goal is to prepare my students for their career by broadening class materials, sharing career advice, helping them with professional examinations and encouraging them to seek networking events, internships and career opportunities early in their college life. |
| MBA, Marshall University, 2012 | BBA, Foreign Trade University, 2009 | Research Interests
| Corporate Finance | Executive Compensation | Real Estate | ||||||
| kcruz@georgiasouthern.edu | Kevin | Cruz | Assistant Professor of Management | 912-478-0466 | PCOB 3329/Hawes 208F | Armstrong Campus, Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Management | Kevin’s research develops new insights into how psychological and sociological factors impact the negative and positive relationships that employees develop and maintain with their employers (e.g., psychological contract breach), leaders (e.g., social networks), team members (e.g., conflict), and co-workers (e.g., co-worker exclusion). | Teaching PhilosophyMy primary goal as a teacher is to develop students’ critical, analytical, and reflective thinking skills through active learning techniques so that they have a competitive advantage on the job market and are high-performing employees. |
| B.S., University of South Florida St. Petersburg, 2007 | A.A., St. Petersburg College | Research Interests
| Leader – Follower Relationships (e.g., social networks) | Team Member Relationships (e.g., conflict) | Co-Worker Relationships (e.g., co-worker exclusion) | |||||||
| lrich@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=cTsAv88AAAAJ&hl=en | Leigh E. | Rich | Professor | 912-344-2655 | UH 154F | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Department of Health Science & Kinesiology | In the vein of Chekhov, Leigh E. Rich has followed two passions: medicine and the media. A medical anthropologist, she teaches courses in bioethics, health law and policy, health communication, and special topics such as “Literature and Medicine,” “TV’s Take on Medicine,” and “Medicine at the Movies.” Her research focuses on bioethics and the body, health law, pop culture, and gender. A longtime “culture critic,” she has worked for various publications, including as editor of the “Journal of Bioethical Inquiry” and host of “Listening to Literature.” She is an award-winning writer and has worked in Australia, Denmark, Italy, Russia, and Switzerland. She operates an independent publishing company whose books speak to the human condition. | Teaching PhilosophyA Socratic, interdisciplinary approach grounded in epistemology, theoretical perspectives, primary sources, cultural competence, and bridging theory and praxis, particularly in the collaborative and quickly changing fields of health care, bioethics, narrative medicine, law, policy, and the media. |
| M.A. Cultural and Medical Anthropology (University of Arizona, 1997) | B.A. Cultural Anthropology (University of Colorado, 1994) | Certificate World in World Art History (The Smithsonian Associates, 2019) | Research Interests
| Health Law | Medical Anthropology | Pop Culture and Medicine | Gender | ||||
| yau@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=kfwpH2AAAAAJ&hl=en&oi=ao | Yoris | Au | Professor | 912-478-5999 | PCOB 2202A | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Information Systems & Analytics | Dr. Yoris A. Au is chair and professor of the Department of Information Systems and Analytics. Dr. Au he has directed various extensive IS/IT projects and infrastructures. As the Internet was emerging in the 1990s, he worked with investors to establish and operate an Internet service provider company. His areas of research include economics of information systems, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and big data technology. His current areas of teaching include artificial intelligence and machine learning, business intelligence and analytics, enterprise infrastructure and security, and cloud computing (AWS). | Teaching PhilosophyThrough teaching, I believe that we have many opportunities to create a meaningful and lifelong impact on our students and help improve their lives. We do this not only by teaching them academic and professional skills but also by fostering their self-esteem and helping them realize and believe that they can achieve their dreams. |
| MBA, Katz Graduate School of Business, University of Pittsburg, Pittsburgh, PA | Bachelor of Civil Engineering, Parahyangan Catholic University, Bandung, Indonesia | Research Interests
| Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence for Business | ||||||||
| kschieber@georgiasouthern.edu | Kasie | Schieber | Graduate Recruitment Coordinator | 912-344-3401 | Hawes 110F | Armstrong Campus | Parker College of Business | Graduate Programs Office | Kasie grew up in rural Illinois and earned her bachelor's in fine arts with a focus in graphic design, marketing, and communication from Western Illinois University. After earning her Master of College Student Personnel Administration from Illinois State University, Kasie moved to the Savannah, Georgia area. Here, she served as the Alternative Breaks Coordinator at Georgia Southern for three years, where her passion for community engagement and leadership development were ignited. Kasie now serves as the Graduate Recruiter for the Parker College of Business, where she is able to utilize her skills in relationship building, marketing and outreach, graphic design, and social media management. | |||||||||||||||
| jhroberts@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=g3rAPysAAAAJ&hl=en | James | Roberts | Associate Professor | 912-478-4687 | 2228 Biological Sciences | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biology | I am a fish ecologist with particular interests in population and community dynamics, dispersal ecology, population and conservation genetics, and environmental change. I apply a variety of field, genetic, and modeling methods to address key questions in fisheries management and conservation biology. At GSU, I teach Fisheries Biology, Ichthyology, Conservation Biology, Evolution and Ecology, Landscape Genetics, Wildlife Management, Research Methods, and Environmental Biology. | Teaching PhilosophyDon't overdo it. |
| M.S., Virginia Tech, 2003 | B.S., University of Georgia, 2000 | Research Interests
| Vertebrate population dynamics | Landscape genetics | Fisheries science | Conservation biology | |||||
| tdrake@georgiasouthern.edu | Tara | Drake | Executive Assistant | 912-478-5107 | Parker College of Business Room 2253 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Associate Dean's Office | Executive Assistant to the Associate Dean of Parker college | |||||||||||||||
| kschieber@georgiasouthern.edu | Kasie | Schieber | Graduate Recruitment Coordinator | 912-344-3401 | Hawes 110F | Armstrong Campus | Parker College of Business | Graduate Programs Office | Kasie grew up in rural Illinois and earned her bachelor's in fine arts with a focus in graphic design, marketing, and communication from Western Illinois University. After earning her Master of College Student Personnel Administration from Illinois State University, Kasie moved to the Savannah, Georgia area. Here, she served as the Alternative Breaks Coordinator at Georgia Southern for three years, where her passion for community engagement and leadership development were ignited. Kasie now serves as the Graduate Recruiter for the Parker College of Business, where she is able to utilize her skills in relationship building, marketing and outreach, graphic design, and social media management. |
| Graduate Certificate, Women's Gender, and Sexuality Studies, Illinois State University, 2021 | B.F.A. Graphic Design, Marketing, and Communication, Western Illinois University, 2019 | ||||||||||||
| dserrano@georgiasouthern.edu | Diana | Serrano | Dr. | 912-344-3618 | Gamble Hall 206 | Armstrong Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of World Languages & Cultures | I am originally Quito, Ecuador. I have a B.S.in English from Mt. St. Mary´s University, an M.A from Georgetown University in Latin American Studies with a concentration in Latin American Literature, and a PhD from the University of Florida in Latin American Literature. I have been an educator for almost 30 years. | Teaching PhilosophyI have student centered approach to teaching. I focus on student´s success and what students can do and accomplish. |
| M.A. Georgetown University, 1997 | PhD University of Florida, 2004 | Research Interests
| Latinos in the United States | Second Language Acquisition | Technology use in second language acquistion | |||||||
| smoss@georgiasouthern.edu | Steve | Moss | Professor of Information Systems and Analytics | 912-478-0757 | 2213 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Information Systems & Analytics | Professor of Information Systems and Analytics |
| MBA, Georgia State, 1985 | BBA, U. of S. Florida, 1982 | Research Interests
| Mega Sports Events | International Travel | |||||||||
| srossi@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/stephen-rossi | Stephen | Rossi | Professor and Associate Dean | 912-478-8557 | Hollis 2123 | Statesboro Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Department of Health Science & Kinesiology | In my role as Associate Dean of WCHP, I manage institutional effectiveness data processes. I oversee curriculum reviews and modifications. I lead student recruitment, retention, and success initiatives. I supervise faculty searches, tenure, and promotion proceduresand manage Statesboro campus operations in the Dean's absence. | Teaching PhilosophyMy approach to teaching is grounded in showing students the respect they deserve, challenging them through rigorous coursework, and evaluating their progress fairly to provide everyone an opportunity to succeed. |
| M.S., Exercise Science Appalachian State University | B.A., Physical Education and Health University of North Carolina Wilmington | Research Interests
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| rachelsmith@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/parker/mgnt/rachel-williamson-smith/ | Rachel | Smith | Associate Professor of Management | 912-478-0759 | Parker College of Business Room 3332 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Management | Rachel Williamson Smith, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor of Management in the Parker College of Business. She joined the faculty at Georgia Southern in 2021 after holding a position at Louisiana State University where she served as the Director of the Industrial/Organizational Psychology Ph.D. Program. She has published over 27 scholarly articles and received the Gary M. Davis Excellence in Research Award from the Parker College of Business in 2024. Dr. Smith teaches courses on organizational behavior and human resource management at both the undergraduate and graduate level. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy centers on challenging students to think critically and apply what they have learned beyond the classroom, develop meaningful relationships with students, and inspire students with an active learning approach. |
| M.S., University of Georgia, 2015 | B.A., University of South Carolina, 2012 | Research Interests
| The work-life interface | Workaholism | Scale development | Quantitative research methods | |||||
| dbrickey@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/parker/mktg/travis-brickey/ | D. Travis | Brickey | Lecturer of Marketing & Director of the Center for Sales Excellence | 912-478-5588 | Parker College of Business, #3333 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Marketing | Travis Brickey comes to Parker College of Business from Pellissippi State Community College, where he taught undergraduate marketing/sales, management, and business courses in various classroom environments. In addition to his teaching experience, Brickey has 20 years of corporate marketing, sales, and advertising experience. Having worked for companies such as Disney, BBDO, University of Tennessee Medical Center, and U.S. Bank, he brings a wealth of practical hands-on experience into the classroom—providing context to theory. As the director of the Center for Sales Excellence, Brickey leads the one of the top rated sales programs in the nation! | Teaching PhilosophyMy philosophy of education encourages a learning environment that supports intellectual curiosity, academic achievement, and personal growth. I encourage critical thinking, engaging students to not only learn business concepts and theory but to understand them in practice, not afraid to question norms. My teaching philosophy stems from this innate sense of natural curiosity that we all possess. As an educator with 20 years of professional real-world experience, my classes are rooted in reality. Textbook theory and definitions are taught, but then I couple it with real-world examples, which help the students better relate to the material. |
| BS, University of Tennessee, 2001 | AMA Professional Certified Marketer - Sales Management | Research Interests
| Center for Sales Excellence | ||||||||
| mlamboyruiz@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=eRqJHOgAAAAJ&hl=en | Melvin | Lamboy-Ruiz | Associate Professor of Accounting | 912-478-2228 | Parker 2230 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | School of Accountancy | Melvin Lamboy-Ruiz is an Associate Professor at the School of Accountancy (SOA). He is a Certified Public Accountant and received his Ph.D. in Management (Accounting) from Purdue University. Melvin teaches undergraduate and graduate financial accounting courses at the Parker College of Business. His primary research interest is the impact of accounting information quality on socially significant outcomes in the healthcare industry. Melvin’s research articles have been published in several academic research journals. He dedicates his service efforts to assessing student learning at the SOA and increasing diversity and inclusion in the academic community. | Teaching PhilosophyLearning is active. I foster experiential accounting learning, blending lectures, AI tools, real-world cases, and hybrid methods to engage students, respect diversity, and nurture accounting and business skills. |
| Master’s in Health Services Administration from the University of Puerto Rico-Medical Sciences | BSBA (Accounting) from the University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez | Research Interests
| Healthcare accounting | Fraud and forensic accounting | |||||||
| szafar@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/sana-zafar | Sana | Zafar | Assistant Professor of Management | 912-478-7089 | PCOB 2243 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Management | Sana Zafar joins the Parker College of Business from the Warrington College of Business, where she worked as a Post-Doctoral Associate. Her research interests focus on (1) gender issues in management, and (2) entrepreneurial cognition and behavior. Sana is passionate about teaching and has taught several courses including Startup Funding, Small and Family Business Management, Strategic Management, and Principles of Management at Auburn University and the University of Florida. She is excited about supporting her students in their journeys as future entrepreneurs and leaders. | Teaching PhilosophyI believe that every student learns differently and is motivated by unique factors. My goal is to create a classroom that embraces cultural, linguistic, and learning differences while challenging diverse thinking patterns. I design courses that promote student engagement through group projects, case studies, and guest lectures, focusing on real-life applications of what students learn. I see it as my responsibility to continually improve my teaching by incorporating student feedback. I understand the impact a good teacher can have, and I strive to bring about positive changes in my students' lives. |
| Research Interests
| Gender | ||||||||||
| ascheetz@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/parker/soa/andrea-m-scheetz/ | Andrea | Scheetz | Associate Professor of Accounting | 912-478-8661 | PCOB | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | School of Accountancy | Andrea Scheetz, Phd, CPA, CFE received her Doctorate and Masters from Case Western Reserve University, and BBA from Niagara University. Dr. Scheetz is a Certified Public Accountant as well as a Certified Fraud examiner. She has professional practice experience in both audit and corporate accounting. Dr. Scheetz teaches undergraduate and graduate financial accounting and fraud-related courses. Her research focuses primarily on judgment and decision making related to whistleblowing following the discovery of fraud. Andrea has published in journals such as: Journal of Forensic Accounting Research, Journal of Financial Crime, Journal of Forensic & Investigative Accounting, and Issues in Accounting Education, Journal of Information Systems. | Teaching PhilosophyI wholeheartedly believe that learning is a partnership between teacher and student. It is the teacher’s role to guide the student and to inspire the student to learn, and just maybe the student will learn to love the subject matter. It is the student’s responsibility to put in the effort to learn by studying, coming to class, participating, asking questions, and doing whatever is necessary to make sure they understand. |
| Case Western Reserve University - Master of Accountancy | Niagara University - Bachelors of Business Administration in Accounting | Research Interests
| Fraud | ||||||||
| agarofolo@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=oVjUyJ4AAAAJ&hl=en&oi=ao | Andrew | Garofolo | Assistant Professor of Management | 2247 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Management | Andrew Garofolo is an Assistant Professor of Management at the Parker College of Business at Georgia Southern University. He earned his PhD in Entrepreneurship and Strategic Management from the University of Colorado and holds undergraduate degrees in Business and Economics from the University of North Carolina. His research interests include acquisitions, entrepreneurial exits, and the role of time in these processes. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy centers on three key principles. First, I believe in creating active learning experiences where students apply course material through hands-on activities. Second, I emphasize the importance of continuously challenging students to apply what they've learned in practical, real-world contexts. Third, I maintain open availability to provide feedback and foster an ongoing dialogue, ensuring students have the support they need to succeed in their entrepreneurial projects. |
| Research Interests
| Entrepreneurial Exit | |||||||||||
| scharlier@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/steven-d-charlier-2 | Steve | Charlier | Professor and Department Chair | 912-478-5985 | PCOB 3355 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Management | Steve Charlier is a professor and chair of the Department of Management. He held managerial positions in a variety of industries prior to joining academia. He has been a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) since 2003, and has consulted with a number of organizations. Steve’s primary scholarly interests are focused on the impact of technology on the modern work environment and in management education. His research has been published in several top journals, and has been featured in popular press outlets like Forbes, Inc., Entrepreneur, and the BBC. Steve is a former associate editor for Human Resource Management and Academy of Management Learning & Education and currently sits on the editorial boards for four academic journals. | Teaching PhilosophyThe foundation of my teaching philosophy is rooted in practical application. Some keywords that drive my teaching methods include passion, respect, organization, challenge, and connection. |
| MIM, University of Denver | BBA, College of William and Mary | Research Interests
| E-learning | Management education | |||||||
| wgato@georgiasouthern.edu | W. Eric | Gato | Professor | 912-478-5922 | 2235 Nursing/Chemistry | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biochemistry, Chemistry & Physics | Dr. Worlanyo Eric Gato is a Professor of Biochemistry, specializing in prediabetes in developing countries, toxicogenomics, and proteomics. His research focuses on the biochemical and toxicological impacts of environmental contaminants. Dr. Gato has mentored over 50 students, providing them with hands-on research experience and opportunities to present their findings at national meetings, including the Society of Toxicology and NOBCChE national meetings. His students have won best presentation awards. He was nominated for the 2020 Faculty Research and Discovery & Innovation Excellence Award. He actively supports student participation through various travel awards, fostering a collaborative and dynamic research environment. | Teaching PhilosophyTeaching at GSU allows me to educate, mentor, and train future scientific leaders. Each year, I meet new students and ensure they know they matter. Recognizing diverse backgrounds and expectations, I use varied teaching methods to engage every student. My courses include Biochemistry I & II, Principles of Chemistry I & II, Principles of Biochemistry, and Toxicology of Nanomaterials. I emphasize hands-on exploration, real-world application, and problem-solving skills. My evaluations reflect my commitment to student success. In research, I mentor students, guiding them through projects and fostering their growth. Continuous improvement and student engagement remain my priorities. |
| MS Environmental Science, University of Nottingham, UK | PhD Biochemistry, Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo MI | Postdoctoral Fellow, Southern Illinois University Carbondale IL, Carbondale IL | Research Interests
| 2. Susceptibility of offspring to metabolic syndrome (insulin resistance) after in utero exposure using animal models | 3. Elucidating Diabetic Cause and Trends in Emerging Economies Using Ghana as a Case Study | |||||||
| BBrinton@GeorgiaSouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/brigette-brinton-2 | Brigette | Brinton | Director | 912-344-2611 | Science Center 1012 | Armstrong Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biology | An ecologist by trade, Ms. Brinton graduated from Dartmouth College in 2008 (B.A. in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology) and Savannah State University in 2014 (M.S. in Marine Science). Ecologists are always considering the connectivity and sustainability of the system, which essential for any study of aquaponics. Her research interests center around animal behavior and parasitology, with a focus on crustaceans, fish, and corvids (e.g. crows). As director of the Sustainable Aquaponics Research Center, Ms. Brinton is responsible for grant preparation and execution, maintaining fish stock, coordinating interns, volunteers, and research students to maintain, monitor, and repair the laboratory and greenhouse systems for SARC. | Teaching PhilosophyMy philosophy in teaching is to not only teach the students the content, but to provide the context and additional skills that are more difficult to acquire on their own. I emphasize the broader context, the surrounding story, and the implications of each topic whenever possible, often by asking students to troubleshoot the situation. By including higher-order learning in introductory, upper-division, and informal education, students are primed to analyze, evaluate, and create later in their educational career and can become life-long learners. Students who make connections among topics, see the relevance of their studies to their own lives, and can think critically about events will be better citizens and environmental stewards. |
| Dartmouth College, Bachelor of Arts in Biology, 2008 | Research Interests
| Marine Biology | Parasitology | Aquaponics | Ecology and Evolution | Sustainable Aquaponics Research Center | |||||
| clwaller@georgiasouthern.edu | Carol Lott | Waller | Admin | 912-478-5926 | Parker College Room 3356 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Office of Marketing & Media |
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| fziegler@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/françois-ziegler-2 | François | Ziegler | Associate Professor | 912-478-1969 | Math/Physics 2322 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Mathematical Sciences | François Ziegler has been in the Mathematical Sciences department since 2004. His research centers on the correspondence between homogeneous symplectic manifolds and unitary group representations, or in other words, the relationship between classical and quantum mechanics. He has advised four Master’s theses. | Teaching PhilosophyTeach the Math! |
| B.S. in Physics, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH Lausanne), 1988 | Research Interests
| Unitary Group Representations | |||||||||
| pmooney@georgiasouthern.edu | Paula | Mooney | Senior Lecturer | 912-478-0227 | Parker College of Business #1110 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | School of Accountancy | A senior lecturer in the Parker College of Business School of Accountancy, Paula Mooney, CPA, CFE, CGMA has held positions in both the private sector and academia. Before returning to Georgia Southern, Mooney served as CFO for a mulit-million dollar non-profit and the quality control director for a CPA firm. Mooney has received numerous awards in recognition of her teaching and service to Georgia Southern and the accounting profession. | Teaching PhilosophyMooney's teaching philosophy can be summed up in the quote, "People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care." As a professor, the valued added to students is the most important aspect of the job. The style and techniques used in conveying knowledge and information to the class must be reflective of the deep desire to see each and every student succeed, although most will never have Mooney's passion for the subject of accounting. |
| BBA in Accounting, University of Georgia, 1983 | Research Interests
| Leadership/Development of Self and Others | Not-for-Profits | |||||||||
| gstuart@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?hl=en&user=_JYA-lwAAAAJ | Gloria | Stuart | Senior Lecturer of Accounting | 912-478-0404 | Parker College of Business, Room 2227 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | School of Accountancy | Gloria Stuart is a senior lecturer in the Parker College of Business School of Accountancy. She joined the faculty in 2004 and currently teaches financial accounting and taxation. Gloria is also a site coordinator with the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program. She is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) licensed in Georgia. She is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and Georgia Society of CPAs. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy is centered around students and encompasses three core beliefs. First, I recognize that each student is unique and learns in their own way. Second, I strive to cultivate a positive and engaging classroom atmosphere that fosters collaboration between faculty and students. Finally, I believe that students enhance their learning when they can connect classroom concepts to real-world experiences, such as through experiential-learning opportunities. These guiding principles shape my lesson planning, learning activities, and assessment design. |
| BBA (Accounting), Georgia Southern University | Research Interests
| Financial Accounting | |||||||||
| rszymanski@georgiasouthern.edu | Robert (Bob) | Szymanski | Lecturer | 912-478-0481 | Parker College of Business Rm 2210 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Information Systems & Analytics | Robert “Bob” Szymanski is a lecturer in the Information Systems and Analytics Department and serves as the faculty coordinator for the SAP Academic Alliances program. He has also served as chair on the North American Academic Board for the SAP University Alliances. Bob owns and operates a private consulting firm which specializes in SAP consulting and education. His consulting work has included many Fortune 500 companies as well as SAP America. Bob also holds many professional certifications in SAP. As well as holding these professional certifications, he serves as a leading SAP TS410 certification instructor in the Americas. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy is quite simple and is led by one main principle: I measure my success on the success of my students. In essence, that is what it comes down to for me. To achieve success for my students, I strive to provide them with as much value as possible from the classroom. My industry experience in operations and software consulting spans several roles: consultant, manager, and front-line employee. This allows me to provide students with multiple perspectives that are practical and backed up with real world examples that reinforce content in the courses I teach. This approach also leads to greater engagement with students who then become more inclined to ask questions, leading to dialog. |
| BS (1986) Boston College | Research Interests
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| bnarendrapurapu@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=LwNkeJwAAAAJ&hl=en | Beulah | Narendrapurapu | Senior Lecturer | 912-478-5876 | Nursing and Chemistry Bldg., Room 2215 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biochemistry, Chemistry & Physics | Beulah Narendrapurapu is an alum of the University of Georgia where she received a PhD in Computational Chemistry. She is a Senior Lecturer of Chemistry in the Department of Biochemistry, Chemistry and Physics. She is a coordinator for Comprehensive General Chemistry course (CHEM 1310) and teaches undergraduate courses on the Statesboro campus and online. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy centers on the idea that learning resembles the growth of a crystal, building on existing knowledge in a structured manner. I strive to "seed" this learning by carefully selecting examples and guiding students to develop analytical skills, encouraging them to engage deeply with the material rather than passively absorb information. By using tailored teaching methods and promoting a respectful classroom atmosphere, I aim to foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and a genuine appreciation for scientific methodology among my students. |
| MS, Chemistry (Indian Institute of Technology Bombay) | BS, Chemistry (St. Ann's College, Osmania University) | Research Interests
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| timwhel@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/timothy-whelan | Timothy | Whelan | Professor Emeritus, English | Statesboro Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of English | Timothy Whelan has published more than 70 articles on American and British Puritanism, Religious Nonconformity, Print Culture, Baptist History, and British Romanticism between 1650 and 1850. Among his publications are Other British Voices: Women, Poetry, and Religion, 1766-1840 (2015); Nonconformist Women Writers, 1720-1840, 8 vols. (2011); Baptist Autographs in the John Rylands University Library of Manchester, 1741-1845 (2009); and Politics, Religion, and Romance (2008). His work in digital humanities has resulted in three substantial websites: Nonconformist and Dissenting Women’s Studies, 1650-1850; Nonconformist and Dissenting Studies, 1650-1850; and Mary Hays: Life, Writings, and Correspondence. | Teaching PhilosophyMaking literature and history interesting to students by close readings of the texts, relevant and accurate historical background, and humorous anecdotes whenever possible. |
| M.A., University of Missouri-Kansas City | B.A., Tennessee Temple University | Research Interests
| British Baptist History, 1650-1850 | British Nonconformist Women Writers, 1650-1850 | British 18th Century Print Culture | Manuscripts and Archival Research and Digital Humanities | |||||||
| nbingham@georgiasouthern.edu | Nicholas | Bingham | Professor of Military Science | 912-478-0034 | Military Science Building, room 1007 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Military Science | LTC Nick Bingham was born and raised in Memphis TN. He graduated from the University of Mississippi and was commissioned through their reserve officer training corps (ROTC) program in 2006. Throughout his career he was stationed throughout the US and deployed multiple times overseas. Nick is returning to Georgia Southern University after previously being assigned as an instructor on campus. He is currently serving as the Department Chair and Professor of Military Science. | Teaching PhilosophyWe are here to create qualified and competent Second Lieutenants in the United States Army who are well prepared to lead subordinates and advise superiors. To do that, we must maintain a positive organizational environment where our students trust their instructors to assist in their professional growth. Lastly, remain positive - positive attitudes lead to productivity. |
| Bachelors in Education from Univ of Mississippi | Research Interests
| Leadership Principles | ||||||||||
| bnewell@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/bobbie-j-newell-2 | Bobbie | Newell | Assistant Professor | 912-478-1258 | Hendricks Hall 2039 | Statesboro Campus | Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health | Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology & Environmental Health Sciences | Bobbie J. Newell is an Assistant Professor and Assessment Specialist in the Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Environmental Health Sciences at Georgia Southern University, where she has been a faculty member since 2011. Her research and teaching focus on environmental health and justice, with interests in built environments, climate justice, sustainability, and disaster preparedness. Bobbie is dedicated to community-based research that supports vulnerable, underserved, and rural populations. As an Assessment Specialist, she develops and implements assessment strategies, creates data repositories, and delivers actionable reports, helping inform decisions across library units while promoting data-driven practices. | Teaching PhilosophyTeaching is grounded in a student-centered approach that promotes active learning, critical thinking, and real-world application. Focused on environmental health and justice, including built environments, neighborhood effects, climate justice, sustainability, and disaster preparedness, teaching emphasizes the intersection of science and social justice. A key component is community-based research, engaging students with vulnerable, underserved, and rural populations. Students are encouraged to propose equitable, sustainable solutions to environmental health challenges through diverse methods, fostering responsibility, empathy, and ethical decision-making. |
| Georgia Southern University 2012 Degree: Master of Education Major: Teaching & Learning in Biology | Georgia Southern University 2004 Degree: Bachelor of Science Major: Secondary Science Education | Research Interests
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| oardakani@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/omid-ardakani-2 | Omid | Ardakani | Associate Professor | 912-344-3163 | Armstrong Campus - Hawes Hall Room 208C | Armstrong Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Economics | Dr. Omid M. Ardakani is an Associate Professor of Economics and the Solomons Economic Research Fellow. His research spans econometrics, monetary policy, and asset pricing. His research integrates Bayesian and data mining techniques to provide insights into economic and financial problems. Currently, he studies methodological approaches and applications of information and extreme value theories. Dr. Ardakani has been recognized with several awards for his academic contributions and serves as co-editor of the Economics Journal and section editor of the Financial Statistical Journal. He is the editorial board member of the Journal of Information Economics and International Finance. | Teaching PhilosophyAs an educator with an academic background in analytics, econometrics, macroeconomics, and finance, Dr. Ardakani's teaching philosophy has evolved through diverse teaching roles, ranging from undergraduate lectures to graduate classes. His approach is rooted in the belief that education is both about conveying knowledge and inspiring students to discover their potential and guiding them in applying theoretical concepts to real-world problems. |
| M.A. Economics, University of Tehran | B.A. Economics, Yazd University | Research Interests
| Computational Finance | Monetary Economics | |||||||
| rquirino@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?hl=en&user=sovnOW8AAAAJ | Rafael | Lopes Quirino | Clair Colvin Distinguished Research Professor | 912-478-2345 | 3234, Nursing/Chemistry Building | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biochemistry, Chemistry & Physics | Dr. Quirino came to Georgia Southern University (GSU) in 2012 after a post-doc at Iowa State University, where his research focused on the functionalization of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and on the preparation of polyurethanes from vegetable oils. His research group at GSU studies the behavior of CNTs when exposed to microwaves, as well as bio-based thermosets, and biomass torrefaction. With interests in polymer science, pyrolysis, oleochemistry, and bio-based materials, the Quirino Research Group carries-out student-driven, original research in the Biochemistry, Chemistry and Physics Department. The Group’s activity is centered on the use of triglycerides for different chemistries from a materials perspective. | Teaching PhilosophyStudent-centered, fostering a welcoming learning environment to promote inclusive teaching. |
| Ph.D. Iowa State University (2011) | M.S. University of Brasilia, Brazil (2006) | B.S. University of Brasilia, Brazil (2004) | Research Interests
| pyrolysis | oleochemistry | biorenewable materials | Center for Advanced Materials Science | GS-CAMS | ||||
| cwhitlock@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?view_op=list_works&hl=en&user=9bY6dOUAAAAJ | Christine | Whitlock | Professor | 912-478-5682 | Nursing/Chemistry 3214 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biochemistry, Chemistry & Physics | Christine R. Whitlock is an alum of the University of Alabama and is a Professor of Chemistry in the Department of Biochemistry, Chemistry, and Physics. She teaches general chemistry, organic chemistry, and drug design primarily on the Statesboro campus. | Teaching PhilosophyFor 30+ years, I have enjoyed the opportunity at Georgia Southern University to serve as a teacher-scholar. It is my professional ambition to help others understand chemistry and appreciate it as much as I do. In the classroom, I strive to provide an ideal learning environment, and communication is the key. Rather than simply distributing knowledge, I act as a guide to the learning process. I define objectives regularly and use my expertise in the subject to direct the students. They are expected to be actively involved in the learning process through out-of-class assignments, in-class groupwork and laboratory discussions. |
| Research Interests
| Heterocyclic Chemistry | Open Education Resources | |||||||||
| egalvan@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=nRJva8sAAAAJ&hl=en | Emma G. | Galvan | Assistant Professor of Marketing | 912-478-0055 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Marketing | I am originally from the south and have attended two SEC universities. I played soccer at the University of Alabama, where I graduated with simultaneous Bachelor and Master’s Degrees of Science in Marketing. I worked in digital marketing for two years as a social media manager for a sports psychologist and an account manager for a regional digital marketing firm (GRO Marketing). I returned to the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) to pursue a PhD in Marketing. After four years, I graduated and became an assistant professor at Georgia Southern University. Hail Southern! | Teaching PhilosophyAs an educator, I believe we have not only the responsibility to help students reach their full potential, but the privilege to impact the lives of generations to come. I believe this can be done by exposing students to new ways of thinking and instilling in students that learning doesn’t end after acquiring a degree. This especially rings true as a college professor, where we are encountering young adults who will be making decisions that ultimately impact the rest of their lives. |
| M.S., University of Alabama, 2018 | B.S., University of Alabama, 2018 | Research Interests
| Misinformation | Consumer perceptions & processing | ||||||||
| gkaramemis@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=af9k9IwAAAAJ&hl=en | Gulver | Karamemis | Assistant Professor of OM/SCM | 912-478-7439 | Parker College of Business 3351 | Armstrong Campus, Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Logistics & Supply Chain Management | Gulver Karamemis is an Assistant Professor of Operations Management at Georgia Southern University where she teaches operations management, international supply chain systems at the undergraduate level and applied multivariate methods at the graduate level. Her research focuses on outsourcing/sourcing decisions and competition. Her current research interests include extending economic models in designing optimal channel structures, sustainable operations and social networks. She has recently published articles in such journals as European Journal of Operational Research and Journal of Cleaner Production. Karamemis serves as an ad-hoc referee for Production and Operations Management, Decision Sciences Journal, among others. | Teaching PhilosophyA valuable education is one that a student can apply throughout their career, one that stimulates curiosity and encourages them to raise questions. I believe critical thinking, analysis and independent problem solving are skills that are valuable in all facets of life and not limited to the workplace. A crucial aspect of an academic career is the student and teacher interaction, a key relationship in an inclusive and engaging learning environment. I thoroughly enjoy making this connection with my students and helping them bridge the knowledge gap of their chosen career. As a believer in continuous improvement, my goal is to create a knowledge base they will find effective in their careers, not just in the classroom. |
| MS, University of Florida, 2011 | MSc, University of Florida, 2008 | BSc, Istanbul Technical University, 2007 | Research Interests
| Channel coordination/competition | Sustainable operations | Social networks/social capital | New product development | ||||
| jking@georgiasouthern.edu | John | King | Professor | 912-478-0388 | 3324 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Economics | John King, Ph.D., is a professor of economics at Georgia Southern University. He earned his Ph.D. and MA degrees in economics from Vanderbilt University and his BA in economics from Western Kentucky University. Professor King has been at Georgia Southern, where he primarily teaches courses in microeconomics, since 2002. Before coming to Georgia Southern, he taught courses at Duke, Elon, and Vanderbilt Universities. His published research includes applied and theoretical articles on firm and consumer decision making under a variety of market conditions and informational assumptions as well as economics pedagogy. He was the 2008 recipient of the T.J. Morris, Jr. Faculty Award for Excellence in Research in the Parker College. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy stems from the idea that the primary responsibility of an instructor is towards the subject matter rather than any other stakeholder. I see two primary risks involved in the teaching process. The first is that we water down the material so that more students experience “success” in the form of higher grades while not achieving a real understanding of the material and the second is that we fail to generate enough excitement to spark the students’ own intellectual curiosity so that the learning process continues beyond the classroom. I try to balance these two risks in order to provide my students with a course that is rigorous and challenging but still interesting enough for them to actually want to show up and learn. |
| MA, Economics, Vanderbilt University | BA, Economics, Western Kentucky University | Research Interests
| Cultural Economics | Information Economics | ||||||||
| sloney@georgiasouthern.edu | Sam | Loney | Military Science Instructor | 912-478-0037 | Military Science Building | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Military Science | I was stationed at Hunter Army Airfield with 1st Ranger Battalion 75th Ranger Regiment where I served in various positions to include Rifleman, Automatic Rifleman, Fire Team leader, Multi-Purpose Canine Handler, and Multi-Purpose Canine Section Leader. I have deployed four times in support of Operation Freedom Sentinel and Operation Inherent Resolve. | Teaching PhilosophyAs a ROTC Military Science Instructor, I focus on developing future leaders through a blend of leadership education, experiential learning, and personal mentorship. I believe in teaching cadets to lead by example, reinforcing the Army values, and preparing them for the physical and mental demands of a profession in the Army. My goal is to foster adaptable, ethical, and resilient leaders who can thrive in any environment they are placed in. Through hands-on training and critical thinking, I challenge cadets to grow into well-rounded individuals ready to serve. |
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| nmangee5@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.taskstream.com/ts/mangee/NicholasMangee | Nicholas | Mangee | Truist Chair in Money & Banking | 912-478-5617 | Business Bldg 3348/Hawes 208G | Armstrong Campus, Statesboro Campus, Army Education Centers | Parker College of Business | Department of Finance | Nicholas Mangee is the Truist Chair in Money & Banking, Faculty Fellow of Scholar and Student Success, and Professor of Finance in the Parker College of Business at Georgia Southern University. He is also a research associate for the Institute for New Economic Thinking (INET) program on Knightian Uncertainty Economics (KUE) for financial markets. Mangee has written a scholarly book, titled How Novelty and Narratives Drive the Stock Market: Black Swans, Animal Spirits and Scapegoats (Cambridge University Press, 2021). | Teaching PhilosophyI strive to facilitate students' learning process by integrating real-world issues, theoretical motivations, and data analysis. |
| Certificate, Advanced Macroeconometrics, University of Copenhagen, 2012 | B.A., St. Lawrence University, 2006 | Research Interests
| Financial Time Series | Textual News Analytics | Knightian Uncertainty | ||||||
| dweaver@georgiasouthern.edu | Dyvon | Weaver | Assistant Professor of Military Science/ Operations Officer | 912-478-0042 | 2006 Military Science Building | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Military Science | 1LT Weaver is from Jefferson City, TN. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration/ Marketing from Carson-Newman University. 1LT Weaver commissioned as an Armor Officer through ROTC at Carson-Newman University in May 2022. He most recently served as a Scout Platoon Leader and Squadron Plans officer in 5th Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 1ABCT, 3rd Infantry Division at Ft. Stewart, Georgia. His awards include the Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Army Service Medal, and the German Armed Forces Proficiency Badge. . | Teaching PhilosophyAs a Military Science Instructor, I focus on developing leaders through military leadership application and education, peer mentorship, and character development. I believe in teaching cadets to take challenges head on, take risks, and learn from mistakes. My goal is to foster adaptable, ethical, and resilient leaders who can succeed and thrive in any occupation, hardship, or environment. Through practical training, critical thinking, and leadership opportunities, I hope to challenge cadets to become well-rounded and adaptable leaders who are motivated to serve their community and country. |
| Civilian Education: Bachelor's of Science in Business Administration/ Marketing, Carson -Newman University, Master's Higher Education Candidate, University of Louisville | Research Interests
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| wachia@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/parker/lscm/william-achia/ | Bill | Achia | Lecturer | 912-478-7157 | 1115 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Logistics & Supply Chain Management | Bill Achia teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in Operations and supply Chain Management in both face-to-face and online classroom environments. Prior to academia, Bill worked for over 12 years in supply chain management in both the Pharma (Cardinal Health) and Steel (ThyssenKrupp Stainless) industries in Chicago, IL. Bill has a strong interest in sharing knowledge with students on the analytical aspects of operations and supply chain management. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy centers on fostering critical thinking, practical application, and lifelong learning. I believe that the dynamic nature of supply chains requires students not only to grasp foundational theories but also to apply these concepts in real-world contexts. By integrating case studies, simulations, and interactive discussions, I encourage students to engage deeply with the material and develop problem-solving skills that are essential in the fast-paced global market. My goal in the classroom is to create an inclusive and stimulating learning environment where diverse perspectives are valued, collaboration is encouraged, and students are empowered to innovate. |
| M.S. (Industrial Logistics), Illinois Institute of Technology | MBA, Maharishi International University | BA (Economics), Maseno University (Kenya) | Research Interests
| Humanitarian logistics | |||||||
| gburke@georgiasouthern.edu | Gerard | Burke | Professor of Logistics and Supply Chain Management | 912-478-1495 | 3318 Parker College of Business | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Logistics & Supply Chain Management | Gerard (Jerry) Burke joined the Georgia Southern faculty in 2005. His extensive teaching experience spans various modalities in undergraduate and graduate courses in operations, intermodal transportation, sourcing, negotiation and international business. Dr. Burke’s scholarly contributions include publications in top academic journals as well as timely teaching cases to support the Intermodal Association of North America (IANA) Applied Research Challenge. Beyond service for undergraduate student success and professional development through IANA and the GSLA, Jerry’s professional service is highlighted by serving on the Production Operations Management Society's (POMS) Board of Directors (2015–2021; 2023-25) and as President of POMS (2024). | Teaching PhilosophyBusiness is an applied discipline of higher education. Therefore, educational programming in business schools should build conceptual and analytical foundations to ready students for practical, managerial decision-making and professional interactions. Thus, my general teaching approach is geared toward developing hard and soft skills needed for business graduates to advance in their careers, and I develop and deliver courses which motivate students to qualitatively and quantitatively investigate, analyze and efficiently address challenges in coursework that contain properties of problems faced in managerial practice. Furthermore, I actively engage with industry to develop and deliver experiential learning opportunities for students. |
| M.S., University of Florida | M.B.A., University of Florida | B.S., University of Florida | Research Interests
| Sourcing | Inventory Management | Transportation Management | Intermodal Logistics | |||||
| bmalmir@georgiasouthern.edu | Behnam | Malmir | Assistant Professor of Information Systems & Analytics | 912-478-0631 | Parker College of Business Room 1125 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Information Systems & Analytics | Behnam Malmir earned his doctoral degree in business information technology from Virginia Tech, where he had the honor of receiving prestigious awards such as the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) and Cunningham Fellowships. His primary research focuses on developing models that enhance human decision-making processes. Behnam has applied techniques such as text mining, machine learning, social network analysis, MCDM, and statistical modeling across diverse domains, including supply chain management, online reviews, social media, blockchain, decision support systems, and sustainability. |
| MS (Industrial Engineering), Kansas State University, 2018 | Research Interests
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| ecampbell@georgiasouthern.edu | Esma | Campbell | Assistant Professor | 912-344-2900 | Ashmpore, 165 | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Department of Clinical Science | I have been teaching at this institution since 2007. It was Armstrong State University at the time. My background is radiography, interventional cardiology, and interventional radiology. Prior to accepting my position at Armstrong/Georgia SOutherm, I was manager of invasive and non invasive cardiology, and interventional radiology for St. Joseph's / Candler. | Teaching PhilosophyMy philosophy of education is that all students are unique and must have a stimulating educational environment where they can grow mentally, emotionally, and socially.This environment must prepare them for the rigor they will face in a healthcare field. It is my desire to create this type of atmosphere where students can meet their full potential. I will provide a safe environment where students are invited to share their ideas . They should be able to have choices and let their curiosity direct their learning as I operate as a facilitator. |
| Bacchelors Degree, Public Health, Armstrong State University | Masters, Public Health, Armstrong State University | Research Interests
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| mwilliam@georgiasouthern.edu | Matthew | Williamson | Associate Professor of Human Anatomy and Physiology; Director of the Body Donation Program; Editor of the Occasional Papers of the Turks and Caicos Islands National Museum | 912-478-1820 | Herty 0103 | Statesboro Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Department of Health Science & Kinesiology | Dr. Williamson holds a doctorate in Anthropology from Purdue University with an emphasis in Bioarchaeology. He also earned a Master of Arts in Anthropology with an emphasis in Forensic Anthropology and a Bachelor of Science in Biology both from the University of South Carolina - Columbia. He has conducted research pertaining to prehistoric Native American health in the Southeast and Midwest U.S. and has conducted cemetery research in the Caribbean. He has served as a forensic anthropology consultant for law enforcement agencies in Georgia, South Carolina, Illinois, and Indiana. He teaches courses in Human Anatomy and Physiology and Pathophysiology on the Statesboro campus and online. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy centers around practical application and hands-on participation. Students in my classes leave not only with a deep understanding of the structure and function of the human body but also with an appreciation of how human anatomy and physiology and pathophysiology inform the clinical practitioner and form the basis of patient care. |
| M.A. (Anthropology), University of South Carolina - Columbia, 1992 | B.S. (Biology) University of South Carolina - Columbia, 1990 | Research Interests
| Human Biological Variation | Paleopathology | ||||||||
| bhowells@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/h-elizabeth-howells-2 | Helen Elizabeth | Howells | Professor of English | 912-344-2867 | Gamble and Newton | Armstrong Campus, Statesboro Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of English | Beth Howells is a Professor of English and Chair of the English Department at Georgia Southern University. She teaches on both Armstrong and Statesboro Campuses. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy is rooted in creating an active and engaged learning environment. I believe that students learn best when they are actively involved in the learning process. Through rigorous coursework, thoughtful discussions, and real-world connections, I strive to foster a space where students can develop their critical thinking skills, enhance their writing abilities, and gain a deeper understanding of the world around them. By emphasizing the interconnectedness between reading, writing, and thinking, I aim to empower students to become confident and articulate communicators. |
| MA in English, University of Alabama | PhD in English, University of North Carolina at Greensboro | Research Interests
| Composition Studies | Rhetoric | Administration | Cultural Studies | |||||
| cbrunt@georgiasouthern.edu | Christopher | Brunt | Shirley & Philip Solomons Endowed Chair, Full Professor of Economics | 912-478-8011 | Parker College of Business room 3306A | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Economics | Dr. Brunt is formally trained in health economics and industrial organization and has published in well-respected economics, health service research, and health policy journals such as Health Affairs, Health Economics, Health Services Research, and the International Journal of Health Economics and Management. His research has primarily explored the impact of regulated price restrictions under Medicare on provider behavior and how these changes influence access to care, quality, and costs. He received the Health Economics Distinguished Author Award in 2016, the William A. Freeman Outstanding Professor of the Year Award in 2020, and is a two-time recipient of the Gary M. Davis Excellence in Research Award (2015, 2023). |
| M.A. (Economics), Wayne State University, 2006 | B.S. (Mathematics and Economics), Eastern Michigan University, 2004 | Research Interests
| Industrial Organization | Health Policy | Skilled Nursing Facilities | Physician Behavior | |||||||
| khoffman@georgiasouthern.edu | KEVIN | HOFFMAN | Military Science Instructor | 404-670-7395 | Military Science BLDG | Armstrong Campus, Statesboro Campus | Military Science | Department of Military Science | SFC Kevin R Hoffman was born and raised just outside Pittsburgh PA in a smalltown called Beaver. After completing High School at Western Beaver High, heenlisted in the United States Army, 15 March 2000. He underwent Basic Training atFt Benning GA and his advanced training at Ft Jackson SC. Notable awards:Meritorious Service Medal, four Army Commendation Medals, Four ArmyAchievement Medals, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Medal, ArmedForces Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terror Expeditionary Medal, GlobalWar on Terror service Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal with M device, GeorgiaMeritorious Service Medal, and two Georgia Commendation Medals. Hoffman wasalso awarded the Presidential unit citation. | Teaching PhilosophyIts not about you its about the person to the right and left of you! |
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| michaelp@georgiasouthern.edu | Michael | Pemberton | Professor | 912-478-8454 | Henderson Library 2208B; Newton 1120C | Statesboro Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of English | Dr. Michael A. Pemberton is Professor of English and director of the University Writing Center. A past president of the International Writing Centers Association, he has published six books and more than 100 articles and book chapters on research in writing. He is Series Editor of ATD Books, Director of the CWPA Consultant-Evaluator Service, and Associate Publisher for Journals at the WAC Clearinghouse. He is a Distinguished Fellow of the Association for Writing Across the Curriculum and recipient of the Outstanding Service Award from IWCA and the Ruffin Cup from the GSU’s College of Arts & Humanities. From 2017-2023, he also conducted research as co-PI of the Text Recycling Research Project. | Teaching PhilosophyTeach with care, meet students where they are, be a resource and a guide, treat every student as an individual, encourage exploration, respect diversity, do my best and expect students to do theirs. |
| English, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo 1984 | Motion Picture/TV Production, University of California, Los Angeles 1975 | Research Interests
| Writing center studies | Writing across the curriculum | Writing program administration | Ethics and writing | University Writing Center | |||||
| apirok@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/cah/history/faculty/dr-alena-pirok/ | Alena | Pirok | Associate Professor | IAB 3096 | Statesboro Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of History | Alena Pirok received her PhD from the University of South Florida and is an Associate Professor of Public History and U.S. History in the Department of History. Dr. Pirok teaches graduate and undergraduate Public History and U.S. History courses at Georgia Southern. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy focuses on maintaining accessibility, and encouraging engagement. |
| MA University of South Florida, 2013 | BA Southern Illinois University, 2011 | Research Interests
| Museum History | U.S. History | Historical Memory | Folklore | ||||||
| cmoore@georgiasouthern.edu | Christy | Moore | Principal Lecturer, BSRT Ladder Program Director | 912-344-2887 | Ashmore Hall 127 | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Department of Clinical Science | Christy Moore has her Doctorate in Health Science from A. T. Still University, a Masters of Adult Education, and a BS in Respiratory Therapy from Georgia Southern University (formally Armstrong State University). She teaches on the Armstrong campus in the Department of Clinical Sciences. She specializes in neonatal and pediatric cardiopulmonary care. | Teaching PhilosophyI believe in creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment where every student feels valued and respected. My teaching philosophy revolves around promoting critical thinking, creativity, and independent learning. I aim to inspire and empower my students to become lifelong learners and critical thinkers who can apply their knowledge to real-world situations. I believe in using a variety of teaching methods to cater to different learning styles and to keep the classroom dynamic and engaging. My goal is to foster a love for learning and to help students reach their full potential. |
| NBRC Neonatal Pediatric Specialist | NBRC Certified Pulmonary Function Technologist | |||||||||||
| jwu@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=t03G7LAAAAAJ&hl=en | Ji | Wu | Professor | 912-478-0850 | Room 3235 Nursing and Chemistry Building | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biochemistry, Chemistry & Physics | Ji Wu received his Ph.D. degree in Chemistry from Texas Christian University in 2007. He then joined Dr. Bruce Hinds’ laboratory at the University of Kentucky and worked on the synthesis, characterization, and applications of carbon nanotube membranes. He is now a tenured professor of analytical/materials chemistry at Georgia Southern University, whose research focuses on the synthesis of advanced nanomaterials for electrochemical energy storage and controllable drug delivery. He has so far contributed 70 peer-review journal articles, two book chapters, and one U.S. patent. | Teaching PhilosophyHow to become a qualified chemistry teacher? The actual answer may vary from person to person, but my answer would be ‘Dedication’, ‘Passion’, ‘Enjoyment’, ‘Patience’, and ‘Adaptability’. Teaching also requires instructor to be extremely patient because students in our classrooms have different majors and a wide distribution in learning capability. In my classroom, I always do my best to make sure most students understand the basic concepts and know how to solve practical problems before I move on to the next topic. Instructor has to be highly adaptable when teaching different chemistry courses. It is because different courses have different structures and challenges, as well as various students’ background. |
| Research Interests
| • Electrochemical sensors based on nanoporous membranes | • Programmable drug delivery using multifunctional smart nanomaterials | Center for Advanced Materials Science | GS-CAMS | ||||||||
| LindsayLevine@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=hL2g_hsAAAAJ&hl=en | Lindsay | Levine | Professor of Marketing | 912-478-0513 | Parker College of Business Room 2209 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Marketing | Dr. Levine completed her graduate work in social cognition at Yale University under the advisement of John A. Bargh, and Ezequiel Morsella. After completion of the doctorate, Levine held several faculty positions within Psychology Departments, teaching topics in cognitive psychology, social psychology, and organizational psychology. She completed her post-doctoral work in Marketing at the University of Florida’s Warrington College of Business, applying her expertise in psychology to the field of consumer behavior. As a social psychologist, Levine has research interests focused on judgment and decision-making. Her work has been published in a variety of academic journals, and has been featured in The Wall Street Journal. | Teaching PhilosophyDr. Levine currently teaches in the areas of marketing management and professional sales both at the undergraduate and graduate level, to include courses for the Military MBA at Fort Stewart, and the Georgia WebMBA. She has also served as faculty mentor on the capstone research projects of several Parker College honors students over the years, and as a Master's Dissertation Committee member for the Psychology Department. |
| M.Sci., Yale University | M.Phil., Yale University | Post-Doctoral Certificate, University of Florida | B.A., Vassar College | Research Interests
| Judgment & Decision-Making | Center for Sales Excellence | |||||
| csjeffreys@georgiasouthern.edu | Shannon | Jeffreys | Director of Choral Activities and Assistant Dean for Student Experience in the College of Arts and Humanities | 912-478-2319 | Foy Music Building | Statesboro Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Fred & Dinah Gretsch School of Music | Dr. Shannon Jeffreys is Professor of Music, Director of Choral Activities, and Assistant Dean for Student Experience in the College of Arts and Humanities at Georgia Southern University in Statesboro, Georgia. Her focus is the Southern Chorale, teaching in the undergraduate and graduate conducting and music education curriculums. Dr. Jeffreys has led these choirs in six international choral competitions and two national competitions where the choirs won significant awards. In 2019, she received the Conductor’s Award from the Ave Verum International Choral Competition in Baden, Austria. Choirs under her direction have also been featured at multiple state and national conferences. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy is to inspire and challenge students to achieve their highest potential in choral performance, fostering a passion for learning and excellence. I support student success through an open-door policy, ensuring they feel comfortable seeking help. My rehearsals and lectures are organized, energetic, and pedagogically sound, aimed at developing critical thinking, musical literacy, and intrinsic motivation. I model curiosity and passion, providing quality instruction to help each student realize their individual and ensemble potential in both music and broader life skills. |
| Master of Music, Choral Conducting; University of Mississippi | Bachelor of Music, Vocal Performance and Theology; Birmingham-Southern College | Research Interests
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| adupon@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=UYoruPQAAAAJ&hl=en | Adam | Du Pon | Assistant Professor | 912-478-2231 | Parker College of Business | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | School of Accountancy | Adam du Pon earned his PhD from Virginia Tech in accounting & information systems. He has taught accounting analytics, managerial accounting, and accounting information systems, all of which coincide with his primary teaching interests. Adam’s research interests are at the intersection of financial accounting and management accounting. His research examines how accounting influences managers’ decisions related to operations, investment, performance, and corporate misconduct. He is a Certified Management Accountant and worked for eight years in the gold mining and automotive manufacturing industries in various management accounting and corporate finance roles. | Teaching PhilosophyMy goal as a teacher is to prepare students for a successful career. This involves providing students with the most relevant business acumen, accounting frameworks, and technological skills to succeed in a variety of endeavors. It also necessitates helping them cultivate their professional integrity along with problem-solving and communication skills. I capitalize on my professional experience in corporate finance and accounting, my continuously expanding business/analytics toolset, and my networking with professionals who inform me of the changing business landscape, to achieve this overarching teaching objective. |
| MAcc, University of Utah | BS Accounting, Cum Laude, University of Utah | Research Interests
| Operations Managment | Supply Chain Management | Corporate Finance | Corporate Misconduct | |||||
| ipark@georgiasouthern.edu | Isaac | Park | Professor | 912-478-5895 | 2272 Biology | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biology | Isaac W. Park is an alumnus of the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, and is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biology. Dr. Park teaches undergraduate and graduate courses at the Statesboro campus. His research examines the impacts of changing climate on terrestrial ecosystems at local to continental scales, with particular emphasis on variation in wildfire dynamics and in the timing and synchrony of seasonal events such as plant flowering, bird fledging, and insect emergence over space and time. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy focuses on providing hands-on research experiences where students are encouraged to think critically apply their knowledge to diagnose and troubleshoot real analytical challenges, while guiding their own research questions in a supportive and inclusive environment. |
| M.S., Clemson University | B.A., St. John's College | Research Interests
| Plant Ecology | Fire Ecology | Geospatial Ecology | Bioclimatology | ||||||
| snasseh@georgiasouthern.edu | https://sites.google.com/site/saeednasseh/home | Saeed | Nasseh | Professor of Mathematics | 912-478-5878 | MP 3322 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Mathematical Sciences |
| MSc, University of Tehran, 2003 | BSc, Sharif University of Technology, 2001 | Research Interests
| Homological Algebra | related areas | |||||||||
| gmichals@georgiasouthern.edu | Grzegorz (Greg) | Michalski | Senior Lecturer | 912-478-1339 | Math/Physics, 3025A | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Mathematical Sciences | Greg Michalski has been a faculty member of the Department of Mathematical Sciences since 1998. He teaches lower-division courses. In his free time, he likes to run, swim, or cycle. |
| M.S. in Mathematics, University of Warsaw (Poland), 1986 | Research Interests
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| jbutler@georgiasouthern.edu | Joseph | Butler | Master Sergeant | 912-344-2668 | ARC | Armstrong Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Military Science | MSG Butler currently serves as a Military Science Instructor for Georgia Southern – Armstrong Campus and Savannah State University. MSG Butler, born and raised from New Hampshire enlisted into the Active Duty Army in April of 2006 with the Military Occupational Specialty 14E Patriot Fire Control Enhanced Operator/ Maintainer. MSG Butler has been assigned to various duty stations with multiple job titles. Previous assignments include Fort Hood and Fort Bliss TX, Camp Carroll and Suwon AB South Korea, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Vehicle Driver, Team Leader, Platoon Sergeant, Master Gunner. Some of his awards include Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Overseas Ribbon, Master Gunner Badge, and Driver’s Badge. | Teaching PhilosophyWill create qualified and competent Second Lieutenants in the United States Army who are well prepared to lead subordinates. Positive attitudes leads to valued and respected environments. |
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| epitts@georgiasouthern.edu | epitts@georgiasouthern.edu | Edwin | Pitts | Assistant Professor of Military Science | 912-344-3161 | Armstrong Recreation Center | Armstrong Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Military Science | Captain Ed Pitts, from Springfield, VA, joined the Eagle Battalion as an Assistant Professor of Military Science in July 2020. A graduate of West Point with a Bachelor’s in Systems Management, he was commissioned in Field Artillery in 2011. He served in various leadership roles, including Platoon Leader and Fire Direction Officer, and deployed to Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom. Pitts later served in key positions, including Assistant Brigade Fire Support Officer and Commander of two different units. His awards include the Bronze Star and Meritorious Service Medal. He is married to Pamela Muscher and has a son, Hudson. | Teaching PhilosophyThayer Method |
| B.S. United States Military Academy, 2011 | Research Interests
| Terrorism Studies | Army Doctrine | ||||||||
| rlawrence@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/raymona-h-lawrence-2 | Raymona | Lawrence | Professor | 912-478-2489 | Hendricks Hall, 2006 | Statesboro Campus | Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health | Department of Health Policy & Community Health | Dr. Raymona H. Lawrence, Professor of Health Policy & Community Health at Georgia Southern University, is a trailblazer in community engagement, focusing on rural, hard-to-reach populations and sickle cell disease. As a dual principal investigator on a $9.7 million PCORI grant, she has lead transformative research on transition care for young adults with sickle cell. A Certified Diversity Executive®, Dr. Lawrence directs the Office of Health Equity and Community Engagement and serves as Director of Research for the Sickle Cell Community Consortium. She is also the Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of the Georgia Public Health Association and an award-winning coach for the National Center for Faculty Development and Diversity. | Teaching PhilosophyDr. Lawrence's teaching philosophy centers on fostering an inclusive learning environment where community engagement is key to shaping impactful public health solutions. She believes in empowering students by connecting them with real-world challenges, encouraging critical thinking, and ensuring that all voices, especially those from marginalized communities, are heard and valued. Through this approach, she aims to inspire future leaders who are equipped to drive meaningful change in their communities. |
| (MPH) Master of Public Health in Community Health | (B.S.) Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology | CDE® Certified Diversity Executive | Research Interests
| sickle cell disease | diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) | psychological safety in multi stakeholder teams | |||||
| rswab@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/parker/mgnt/r-gabrielle-swab/ | Gabby | Swab | Assistant Professor | 912-478-8465 | Parker College of Business -1106 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Management | R. Gabrielle “Gabby” Swab joined the Parker College of Business in Fall 2022. She received her Ph.D. from the University of Mississippi in 2019. Her research interests intersect the organizational behavior and entrepreneurship domains, where she focuses on competition in teams, start-ups, and family firms. She teaches Organizational Leadership and Strategic Management. Her industry experience includes technology, sales, and project management. | Teaching PhilosophyMy goals of inspiring learning and perpetuating knowledge in the classroom are guided by three principles: 1 – encourage engagement and help students relate to the material; 2 – show them you care by earning trust; and 3 – provide value. |
| Morehead State University - MBA | Belmont University - Bachelors | Research Interests
| Entrepreneurship | Family Firms | Gamification | ||||||
| hberiault@georgiasouthern.edu | Hannah C. | Beriault | Lecturer and Program Director Respiratory Therapy Program | 912-344-2938 | Ashmore Hall 126 | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Department of Clinical Science | Professor Beriault is a Lecturer and Program Director of the Respiratory Therapy Program. As a graduate of the Medical College of Georgia in 2005, I worked full-time as a staff therapist at a Level I Trauma Center at Augusta University from 2005 until 2013 and most enjoyed working in the Emergency Room, Cardiothoracic and Surgical ICU, and Medical ICU units. In 2012, I completed my MPH in Epidemiology at Kaplan University, and began working full-time at Augusta University in 2013 until 2019. In 2019, I joined the Georgia Southern University Respiratory Therapy Program, where I now hold the position as Program Director. | Teaching PhilosophyMy philosophy of teaching focuses on creating a learning environment that uses real life examples through case studies and problem-based learning. Critical thinking skills are an important aspect of medical education, and a problem-based approach makes a significant impact on student learning as these skills are sharpened through thorough discussion of evidence-based medicine and healthy debate. I strive to see the “ah-hah!” moments during and after class and labs. Frequently, I use teaching methods such as concept mapping and advanced problem-based learning to help students enhance their critical thinking skills and understanding. |
| Kaplan University- MPH Epidemiology 2012 | Research Interests
| Critical Care | ||||||||||
| amypotter@georgiasouthern.edu | Amy E. | Potter | Professor of Geography, Honors Global Scholars Faculty Fellow for Honors College | 912-344-3612 | Science Center 1014 | Armstrong Campus, Statesboro Campus, Wexford, Ireland | College of Science & Mathematics, Honors College | School of Earth, Environment & Sustainability | Dr. Amy E. Potter is a Professor of Geography at Georgia Southern University and an Honors Global Scholars Faculty Fellow. She has published over 30 journal articles and book chapters, along with two books: Remembering Enslavement (University of Georgia Press, 2022) and Social Memory and Heritage Tourism Methodologies (Routledge, 2016). Dr. Potter has secured over $950,000 in NSF grants for projects on museums and racialized Southern heritage landscapes. She has received several awards, including the 2024 Excellence in Teaching Award and the 2022 Excellence in Service Award. As Honors Global Scholars Faculty Fellow, she leads a six-week study abroad program in Wexford, Ireland. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy focuses on creating a positive, open, and supportive classroom where students can thrive. I emphasize meaningful discussion and active engagement to encourage critical thinking and a deeper understanding of the material. I am dedicated to undergraduate research, guiding students to explore academic projects and present at conferences, enriching their learning and preparing them for professional success. By staying current with workshops and refining my practices, I aim to provide a dynamic classroom experience, both online and in person. Ultimately, I am deeply invested in my students' success, both academically and in their future careers. |
| M.A., University of Kansas, 2006 | B.S. University of Kansas, 2004 | Research Interests
| Community-based resilience and sustainability | Museum Geographies | Black Geographies | Transnational Migration and Media | ||||||
| amackelprang@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=XP0IHDIAAAAJ&hl=en | Alan | Mackelprang | Professor | 912-478-0379 | PCOB 3306B | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Logistics & Supply Chain Management | Alan W. Mackelprang is professor and director of the logistics and supply chain management PhD program at Georgia Southern University. He received his PhD in operations management from the University of South Carolina. His research interests lie in the intersection of supply chain management and operations management. He has published in Decision Sciences Journal, Journal of Business Logistics, Journal of Supply Chain Management and Journal of Operations Management, among others. He is currently on the Senior Editorial Team at the Journal of Operations Management and is an Associate Editor at the Journal of Supply Chain Management. | Teaching PhilosophyI believe in creating a collaborative and inclusive learning environment where students are encouraged to think critically and develop a lifelong passion for learning. My teaching methods emphasize active engagement, problem-solving, and real-world applications. I strive to provide personalized support and feedback to help students reach their full potential. |
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| lmooney@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/julian-lowell-mooney-2 | J. Lowell | Mooney | Director of Graduate Studies & MBA Director; Professor of Accountancy | 912-344-3402 | Hawes 110 C | Armstrong Campus | Parker College of Business | School of Accountancy, Parker College Graduate Programs Office | J. Lowell Mooney, PhD, CPA, CGMA, CMA, CFM, directs Graduate Studies & the MBA program at Parker College of Business, Georgia Southern University. As a Professor of Accounting and former director at the School of Accountancy, he holds a PhD in accounting with a minor in MIS from the University of Georgia. Mooney's past includes work in the information systems of a major telecom firm. He’s served as Chair of the Georgia Society of CPAs and is involved in various professional groups. His research focuses on performance evaluation and emerging issues in academia and practice. Awards include the Georgia Southern Leadership Excellence Award, and the Parker College Bishop Award for Sustained Excellence. | Teaching PhilosophyI believe in a selective, merit-based approach to higher education, emphasizing personal responsibility and sacrifice for those pursuing a college degree. As an educator, my role is to guide students in developing analytical skills and independent thinking, fostering lifelong learning. Effective teaching, for me, involves preparation, acting as a role model, and facilitating an interactive learning environment. My classroom is a space for enthusiasm, respect, and continuous improvement, aiming to not only educate but also to inspire ethical and professional growth. |
| MAcc, The University of Georgia, 1979 | BBA, The University of Georgia, 1978 | Professional Certifications: CPA, CGMA, CMA, CFM | Research Interests
| Emerging professional issues | |||||||
| laAdams@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/laurie-adams | Laurie | Adams | Chair, Department of Clinical Sciences | 912-344-3382 | Armstrong Center 227 | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Department of Clinical Science | Laurie Adams is an Associate Professor in Radiologic Sciences, Program Coordinator of the Radiation Therapy Program, and Chair of the Department of Clinical Sciences. She is also an RT(T)(ARRT) credentialed Radiation Therapist. She has moved between clinical practice and education at various points in her career and has been a Chief Radiation Therapist in a hospital setting, a Clinical Coordinator for Radiation Therapy, a Program Coordinator for Radiation Therapy at four institutions, the Interim Associate Dean of the Waters College of Health Professions before becoming Department Chair for Clinical Sciences. She primarily teaches undergraduate courses in the radiation therapy program. | Teaching PhilosophyStudents in clinical programs make tremendous sacrifices of relationships, time and money and I believe it is my responsibility to enter into a partnership with them to meet their academic goals. Simultaneously, I believe it is my responsibility to ensure that graduates are able to think critically and develop confidence to ask questions in order to safely deliver radiation therapy for patients under their care. It is my desire that every student in the Radiation Therapy Program will become far more than competent radiation therapists. I strive to prepare them to become leaders in the healthcare setting as well as educators and mentors for future allied health professionals and hope that I serve as an example of what they can achieve. |
| M.H.S., University of North Florida, 1992 | B.S.R.S., University of Central Florida, 1987 | A.A., Indian River Community College, 1985 | Research Interests
| Radiologic Science Education | Interprofessional Education | ||||||
| dbringman@georgiasouthern.edu | David | Bringman | Associate Professor, Admissions Coordinator Physical Therapy | 912-344-3362 | Armstrong Center 235 | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Department of Clinical Science | David Bringman joined the staff in January 2009. He teaches primarily in the neurological and geriatric assessment and treatment coursework. He is a member of Neurology sections of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). He is the Admissions Coordinator for the DPT program. Dr. Bringman's research interests center around holistic admission processes. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching is grounded in making a meaningful connection with my students so they can appreciate that we are learning together and that I am invested in their future as a healthcare provider. This engagement is my way of demonstrating the relationship that they will need to create with their patients. If I can teach them that they need to care deeply for their patient, then they in turn will understand why they must care about learning in the classroom and ultimately becoming a lifelong learner. |
| MS Physical Therapy, Armstrong Atlantic State University, 2002 | BS Physical Therapy, Armstrong Atlantic State University, 2002 | Research Interests
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| ssazzed@georgiasouthern.edu | https://sites.google.com/site/salimsazzed/ | Salim | Sazzed | Assistant Professor | 912-478-2727 | IT 2319, Statesboro Campus | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Computer Science | Salim Sazzed is an Assistant Professor of Computer Science in the Department of Computer Science at Georgia Southern University, previously serving as a Visiting Assistant Professor at the University of Memphis, TN. He earned his Ph.D. in Computer Science from Old Dominion University in 2023. Dr. Sazzed’s research interests lie in various subfields of Artificial Intelligence (AI), including Natural Language Processing (NLP), Computer Vision (CV), and Machine Learning (ML), with a particular focus on their applications in Data Science, Bioinformatics, and Social Computing. He has authored over 50 papers in peer-reviewed venues and serves as a reviewer and program committee member for leading academic journals and conferences. | Teaching PhilosophySalim Sazzed's teaching philosophy is grounded in four key principles. He prioritizes student-centered learning, tailoring his methods to accommodate diverse student needs and learning styles. In his interactive and collaborative classroom, he fosters active participation and peer engagement, encouraging students to learn from one another. For practical learning, he implements hands-on activities, projects, and real-world applications that enhance students' technical, presentation, and writing skills, effectively preparing them for future challenges. Lastly, he promotes inclusiveness by creating a culture of respect and open communication, ensuring an environment where all students feel valued and supported. |
| MS, University of Dhaka, Bangladesh | B.Sc. , University of Dhaka, Bangladesh | Research Interests
| Natural Language Processing (NLP) | Computer Vision (CV) | Bioinformatics | Data Science | |||||
| mpowers@georgiasouthern.edu | Mark | Powers | Visiting Non-Tenure Track Instructor of Physical Therapy | 912-344-3341 | Armstrong Center #229 | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Department of Clinical Science | Dr. Powers is a visiting instructor in Doctor of Physical Therapy program. He is a thirteen-year experienced physical therapist, orthopedic fellow, APTA credentialed clinical instructor, and residency and fellowship educator. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy centers around an interactive teaching style which allows students to remain engaged and strengthen their critical thinking skills. I often utilize small group work to facilitate problem solving strategies and have an interest in team based learning. |
| Research Interests
| The benefits of utilizing a combination of pain science education and progressive strengthening in patients with chronic low back pain | |||||||||||
| carr@georgiasouthern.edu | Olivia Carr | Edenfield | Professor of English | 912-478-0155 | Newton 2220_B | Statesboro Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of English | Olivia Carr Edenfield, Professor of English, has been on faculty since 1986. She teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in American literature and serves as the Director of the American Literature Association. | Teaching PhilosophyI strive to enrich my students' critical thinking skills by encouraging active participation in class discussions and them in current scholarly conversations. I see our majors as scholars in the making and am devoted to undergraduate and graduate student research. |
| MA in English, University of Iowa, 1986 | Ba in English, Georgia Southern College, 1982 | Research Interests
| Andre Dubus | Andre Dubus, III | American Modernism, in particular Ernest Hemingway, J.D. Salinger, and Cormac McCarthy | |||||||
| zutic@georgiasouthern.edu | Zheni | Utic | Assistant Professor | 912-344-2829 | 288 | Armstrong Campus, Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Mathematical Sciences | Zheni Utic joined the Georgia Southern faculty in 2021 as an Assistant Professor. Her research interests are concentrated in the machine learning domain in cyber security, especially the application of MDP and Reinforcement learning in Intrusion Detection Systems. She likes classroom in-person and online teaching. She also enjoys supporting and encouraging students to develop their potential and helping them to be successful in their academic endeavors. | Teaching Philosophy"The mediocre teacher tells, the good teacher explains, the superior teacher demonstrates, the great teacher inspires." William Arthur WardI believe that every successful teacher should help the students being successful in their studies, should communicate with them regularly and efficiently, share knowledge and exchange ideas. My goal is to be an erudite and inspirational teacher, a creator, and an implementor of new ideas, to be a leader who strives to go the extra mile to help the students to develop their critical thinking and analytical skills. |
| MS Economics and Finance, University of South Florida dual degree, 2013 | Research Interests
| Probability and Markov Decision Process | ||||||||||
| ksmith@georgiasouthern.edu | Kathlyn M. | Smith | Professor of Geology | 912-478-5398 | Herty 1116A | Armstrong Campus, Statesboro Campus | College of Arts & Humanities, College of Science & Mathematics | School of Earth, Environment & Sustainability | Kathlyn M. Smith (she/her) is a Professor of Geology in the Geosciences Program of the School of Earth, Environment, & Sustainability and the Curator of Paleontology for the Georgia Southern Museum. Her research primarily focuses on fossil elephants and their extinct relatives. She teaches introductory and upper-level courses for undergraduate students including Dinosaurs, Extinctions, & Disasters, Historical Geology, and Paleontology. | Teaching PhilosophyMy philosophy is to provide students with the tools necessary to understand and discuss geological and paleontological issues relevant to modern society, to cultivate a deeper appreciation of and connection to the physical and biological world, to foster critical thinking in students by encouraging use of the scientific process, and to utilize technological advances to explore historical sciences. In enacting this philosophy, I seek to amplify the voices of underrepresented and historically uncredited scientists to the development and advancement of geology as a science. |
| M.S., Michigan State University, 2004 | B.S., Purdue University, 2001 | Research Interests
| Pleistocene megafauna | Paleoecology | North American mastodons | Southeastern U.S. Fossils | Georgia Southern University Museum | |||||
| dapanaskevich@georgiasouthern.edu | https://sites.google.com/a/georgiasouthern.edu/dapanask/ | Dmitry | Apanaskevich | Professor | 912-478-0554 | Room 3061, Math/Physics Building | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biology, School of Earth, Environment & Sustainability | By education I am taxonomist in the fields of acarology and entomology. I am Assistant Curator of the US National Tick Collection which is pat of the Smithsonian Institution and my major research scope is in systematics of ixodid ticks. | Teaching PhilosophyMy major philosophy of teaching is to provide knowledge in the discipline, get students involved in education and scientific processes and teach students to analyze and arrive at logical conclusions using scientific methods. Moreover, I focus my teaching on assisting students in acquiring an interest in the topic and help them to identify their future directions in science through teaching. |
| MSc: St. Petersburg State University (Russia) | BSc: St. Petersburg State University (Russia) | Research Interests
| Phylogeny of ixodid ticks (family Ixodidae) | Host-parasite relationships of ixodid ticks (family Ixodidae) | James H. Oliver, Jr., Institute for Coastal Plain Science, U.S. National Tick Collection | ||||||
| dapanaskevich@georgiasouthern.edu | https://sites.google.com/a/georgiasouthern.edu/dapanask/ | Dmitry | Apanaskevich | Professor | 912-478-0554 | Room 3061, Math/Physics Building | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biology, School of Earth, Environment & Sustainability | By education I am taxonomist in the fields of acarology and entomology. I am Assistant Curator of the US National Tick Collection which is part of the Smithsonian Institution and the major scope of my research is in systematics of ixodid ticks. | Teaching PhilosophyMy major philosophy of teaching is to provide knowledge in the discipline, get students involved in education and scientific processes and teach students to analyze and arrive at logical conclusions using scientific methods. Moreover, I focus my teaching on assisting students in acquiring an interest in the topic and help them to identify their future directions in science through teaching. |
| MSc: St. Petersburg State University (Russia) | BSc: St. Petersburg State University (Russia) | Research Interests
| Phylogeny of ixodid ticks (family Ixodidae) | Host-parasite relationships of ixodid ticks (family Ixodidae) | James H. Oliver, Jr., Institute for Coastal Plain Science, U.S. National Tick Collection | ||||||
| marahman@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=V8II13oAAAAJ&hl=en&authuser=1 | M Arif Imtiazur | Rahman | Professor | 434-466-2946 | IT-2329 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Computer Science | I envision myself motivating eager minds through my research, mentorship, and teaching. Together we will be developing new ideas and applications to harness the power of data to make informed decisions and contribute to the forefront of technological advancements that can positively impact the functional safety of AI based safety-critical applications in healthcare and beyond. | Teaching PhilosophyAs an instructor and advisor, my goal is to create an inclusive environment where the students feel excited and empowered to learn necessary skillset that will technically enhance our world. Specifically, drawing on my background in Computer Science, I aim to teach students how to design technology with a critical awareness of ethics, robustness, and scalability. |
| MCS in Computer Science, University of Virginia | B.Sc. in Computer Science, University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) | Research Interests
| Safety-Critical Applications | Healthcare with AI | Natural Language Processing | Sensor Network | Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, and Cyber Security Laboratory (DAC-lab), Center for Public Health Practice and Research | ||||
| fmercado@georgiasouthern.edu | Frances | Mercado-Rodriguez | Director of Clincal Education & Assistant Professor | 912-478-0500 | Ashmore Hall - 125 | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Department of Clinical Science | Dr. Frances Mercado-Rodriguez is an alum of Georgia Southern and is the Director of Clinical Education & Assistant Professor in the Respiratory Therapy Program in the Department of Clinical Sciences. Dr. Mercado-Rodriguez teaches undergraduate courses on the Armstrong Campus. | Teaching PhilosophyAs a respiratory therapy educator, I am dedicated to fostering a learning environment that is both challenging and supportive. My philosophy is grounded in the belief that effective teaching involves creating meaningful connections between theoretical concepts and practical applications. I strive to inspire students to become critical thinkers, lifelong learners, and compassionate healthcare providers. By emphasizing evidence-based practice, clinical reasoning, and patient-centered care, I aim to equip my students with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the dynamic field of respiratory therapy. |
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| mdonato@georgiasouthern.edu | Mark | Donato | Director | 912-478-7358 | Parker College of Business Room 3356A | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Parker College Office of Marketing & Media | Mark is the director of the Office of Marketing & Media for the Parker College of Business. He is a double eagle with over a decade of experience in graphic design and website development. | Teaching PhilosophyNever stop learning. |
| B.S Information Technology, Georgia Southern University | Research Interests
| Media | ||||||||||
| hjoesting@georgiasouthern.edu | Heather | Joesting | Associate Professor of Biology | 912-344-2998 | Science Center 1007 | Armstrong Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biology | Heather Joesting is an Associate Professor of Biology and the Senior Scientist for Georgia Southern's Sustainable Aquaponics Research Center on the Armstrong campus, as well as the College of Science and Mathematics Administrative Fellow for Undergraduate Research. Dr. Joesting teaches undergraduate and graduate courses on the Armstrong campus and to all three campuses through online courses. | Teaching PhilosophyThe foundation for my teaching approach is based on my passion for biology and my enthusiasm to share that passion with my students. I thoroughly enjoy teaching, and it is my goal in the classroom that students succeed through their own initiative. To achieve this goal, I provide engaging lectures and activities that foster critical-thinking skills in an inclusive learning environment. |
| M.S., Ohio University (2005) | B.S., University of North Carolina at Wilmington (2001) | Research Interests
| Nursery production of native species for restoration | Plant morphological and physiological adaptations to the environment | College Office of Undergraduate Research, Sustainable Aquaponics Research Center (SARC) | |||||||
| jxkersey@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/jing-kersey-2 | Jing | Kersey | Assistant Professor of Biostatistics | 912-478-5958 | Hendricks Hall 1011 | Armstrong Campus, Statesboro Campus | Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health | Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology & Environmental Health Sciences | Dr. Jing Kersey is an Assistant Professor of Biostatistics in the Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Environmental Health Sciences at Georgia Southern University. She joined the university in August 2022. With a focus on statistical methods, Jing's research interests lie in the areas of diagnostic accuracy, Bayesian data analysis, and modeling in infectious diseases. Through her work, she aims to contribute to the understanding and advancement of these fields, ultimately making a positive impact on public health and healthcare decision-making. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy is centered on creating an inclusive, engaging, and transformative learning environment. With over a decade of experience in teaching mathematics and statistics, I aim to inspire students to grasp complex biostatistical concepts through clear, well-organized instruction, supplemented by applied examples. I prioritize accessibility and support, ensuring students from diverse backgrounds succeed by offering tailored resources, regular feedback, and collaborative opportunities. My commitment to continuous professional development and integrating innovative methods in my teaching ensures that students are well-prepared for their academic and professional futures. |
| Ms in Statistics, Georgia Southern University | Research Interests
| mathematical/statistical modeling in infectious diseases | machine learning in Alzheimer's Disease Prediction | ||||||||
| yuanli@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/parker/mktg/yuan-li/ | Yuan | Li | Associate Professor | 912-478-7479 | Parker College of Business | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Marketing | Yuan Li is an Associate Professor of Marketing in the Department of Marketing. Her research interests focus on marketing design and visual marketing. Before her academic career, she held management and consultancy positions at Nielsen and Dell. She earned her PhD in Marketing from the University of Texas at San Antonio. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy centers on the idea that effective learning involves engaging students in a value co-creation experience, driven by curiosity and inspiration. I believe in the transformative power of education and strive to foster an excitement for learning and self growth both inside and outside the classroom. |
| Research Interests
| Visual Marketing | Human and AI Interactions | Luxury Consumption | Cross Cultural Research | |||||||
| lkimsey@georgiasouthern.edu | Linda | Kimsey | Associate Professor & MHA Program Director | 912-478-2008 | Hendricks Hall | Statesboro Campus | Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health | Department of Health Policy & Community Health | Dr. Kimsey holds both a PhD in Public Administration and a MHA from the University of Kentucky. At Georgia Southern University, she teaches Health Administration and Leadership courses. She also works with the Center for Public Health Practice and Research, assisting rural hospitals in strategic, operational, and financial planning. Her primary areas of research interest are: military healthcare and rural health systems, where application of systems thinking to complex adaptive organizations is essential. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy is founded on the principle of co-production, where the best outcomes are achieved through the active contributions of both the teacher and the learner. |
| Master of Health Administration Univ of KY | Bachelor of Science Accounting Univ of TN | Research Interests
| Rural Health | Military Health System | Center for Public Health Practice and Research | |||||||
| jhoelscher@georgiasouthern.edu | Jason | Hoelscher | Associate Professor | 912-478-2788 | Center for Art and Theatre, office 2015 | Statesboro Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Betty Foy Sanders Department of Art | Jason Hoelscher has exhibited his paintings in galleries and museums nationally and internationally, exploring how the role of attention operates through a slow medium like painting in a fast-paced and networked information age. Also a writer and art critic, Hoelscher’s work has been published in various journals and magazines, and his book “Art as Information Ecology: Artworks, Artworlds, and Complex Systems Aesthetics” was published in 2021 by Duke University Press in hardcover, softcover, ebook and audiobook formats. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy is grounded in exploring even the most mainstream of ideas from novel vantage points, to see how even the most familiar notions operate when made strange and experienced from an alternate point of view or when moved into a different context. I focus on dialogue and sharing of ideas with and among students, applying a Montessori-style methodology to the university level, combining the openness of that approach with the rigor of college-level expectations to build trust, share knowledge, uncover information, and generate insights toward fostering an atmosphere of creativity and enthusiasm that will continue to unfold far into each student’s future. |
| MFA: Painting, Pratt Institute, NYC | BFA: Painting and Drawing, Rocky Mountain College of Art & Design, Denver CO | Non-degree studies in information theory, network modeling, and complex systems, New England Complex Systems Institute, Cambridge MA | Research Interests
| The overlaps of aesthetic experience and information theory | Aesthetics considered in terms of complex adaptive systems and emergent phenomena | |||||||
| ldusenberry@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/lisa-dusenberry-2 | Lisa | Dusenberry | Associate Professor | 912-344-2733 | Gamble 141 | Armstrong Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of English | Lisa Dusenberry is an Associate Professor of English at Georgia Southern University. Her research focuses on psychological safety, collaboration, and 21st century technical communication teaching strategies. She also investigates intersections between technical communication and children's media, especially analyzing reader-player dynamics (demonstrating how texts operate as interfaces to shape participation) and incorporating coding/design thinking concepts into storytelling. Her work has most recently appeared in Technical Communication Quarterly and Computers and Composition. | Teaching PhilosophyDr. Dusenberry's teaching philosophy centers on adaptability and design thinking, a process for creative problem-solving. Johndan Johnson-Eilola and Stuart Selber highlight the need for technical communicators to be “reflective problem solvers,” continually learning new skills. By viewing communication as a design-thinking process, my students—regardless of discipline—develop skills to curate information, present it effectively, and collaborate. Through ethical reflection and empathy, students critically revise their work, embracing communication as a complex, evolving negotiation with diverse stakeholders. |
| M.A. in English, University of Florida, May 2007 | B.A. in English and Liberal Arts, Colorado State University, May 2005 | Research Interests
| Psychological Safety | Design Thinking and Computational Thinking | Game Design | Children's Media | |||||
| larisaelisha@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/cah/music/faculty-and-staff/elisha-larisa/ | Larisa | Elisha | Professor of Music | 912-478-8536 | Foy | Statesboro Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Fred & Dinah Gretsch School of Music | Dr. Larisa Elisha is a soloist, chamber musician and pedagogue, having performed and taught extensively throughout Russia, Europe, Scandinavia, Taiwan, Lithuania, Israel and U.S. As Violinist/Co-founder of the Elaris Duo, she received the Global Music Award for DUO VIRTUOSO I and II. Dr. Elisha is author of Advanced Scale Studies for Violin and Viola. As performer-clinician, she frequently presents performances, lectures and Master Classes at national/international music festivals, conferences and universities. Dr. Elisha holds BM and MM degrees from Lunacharsky State Conservatory of Belarus, DMA at the K. Lipinski Academy of Music (Wroclaw). Dr. Elisha is currently Professor of Music and Coordinator of Upper Strings Studies at GSU | Teaching PhilosophyMy focus is to provide students with professional technical and artistic training, developmental opportunities and inspiration, which they can apply to their future performing and teaching careers. I promote high professional standards, combined with an individual approach, based on a positive inclusive atmosphere, conducive to the harmonious development of each student. I promote natural and functional movement in instrumental technical development, providing freedom and injury free conditions for achieving the highest artistic results. I am dedicated to my students’ successes and their overall wellbeing. |
| Master of Music in Violin PerformanceState Academy of Music, Minsk, Belarus, 1987-89 | Bachelor of Music, State Academy of Music, Minsk, Belarus, 1981–86 | Special Central School of Music for Gifted (Minsk, Belarus), 1970-1981 | Post-Doctorate Chamber Music Certificate, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, International Institute of Chamber Music, 1997-99 | Research Interests
| Performance - Solo and Chamber Music Recitals | Recording projects - live performances and CD recordings | Special Music Educational Programs - Summer Academies, High School String Intensive Programs | Music Festivals - "Strings at Southern Music Festival" | |||
| kwang@georgiasouthern.edu | Kai | Wang | Associate Professor | 912-478-7392 | IT 2307 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Computer Science | Dr. Kai Wang obtained his PhD in Computer Science in 2015 from University of Tennessee Knoxville. After that he joined faculty in the Department of Computer Science at Georgia Southern University as an assistant professor. He tenured and was promoted to associate professor in 2021. | Teaching PhilosophyEach student has a unique educational background and should be able to learn in an environment where their background can be accurately discovered and evaluated. Interests and curiosity should be properly motivated to guide their learning activities. Hands-on practices should direct and develop their intellectual growth and mental maturity. Students' success should be formed by realizing their unique potentials. |
| Master of Science in Computer Science, Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis, 2008 | PhD in Computer Science, University of Tennessee Knoxville, 2015 | Research Interests
| Computational Complexity | Combinatorics | Artificial Intelligence | |||||||
| vramasamy@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/vijayalakshmi-ramasamy | Vijayalakshmi | Ramasamy | Assistant Professor | 912-478-7413 | IT 2323 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Computer Science | Dr. Vijayalakshmi Ramasamy is an Assistant Professor of Computer Science at Georgia Southern University and an Institute for Health Logistics & Analytics affiliate. With over 27 years of academic and research experience, her work focuses on machine learning, deep learning, and graph data analytics. Her interdisciplinary research focuses on applications in cognitive neuroscience, health data analytics, and environmental challenges such as microplastic pollution and climate change. Dr. Ramasamy has been involved in multiple international research collaborations and continues to pursue innovative solutions at the intersection of technology, health, and the environment. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy, shaped by 27 years of experience across diverse student populations on three continents, emphasizes building an inclusive and engaging learning environment. I encourage active participation to foster a vibrant learning community and strive to bridge the gap between academia and industry by connecting course content to real-world applications. I provide well-organized lessons, ample practice, and timely feedback while accommodating diverse needs. As a co-learner, I aim to create a respectful learning environment for all. I encourage students to share their views, support one another, and foster mutual understanding while ensuring respect and dignity for the diverse identities we all bring to the classroom. |
| Master of Philosophy (M.Phil.) in Computer Science | Master of Computer Applications (MCA) | Diploma in Database Management Systems(DDBM) | Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Chemistry | Research Interests
| Machine Learning and Deep Learning Applications for Pattern Recognition | Educational Data Mining and Learning Analytics for Engaged and Active Learning Environments | Cognitive Neuroscience | Climate change applications (Dietary modeling and impact of microplastic pollution on health) | Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, and Cyber Security Laboratory (DAC-lab), Institute for Health Logistics & Analytics | ||
| jschiman@georgiasouthern.edu | https://sites.google.com/site/jeffschiman/ | Jeffrey | Schiman | Associate Professor of Economics | 912-478-2280 | Parker College of Business, 3345 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Economics | Jeffrey Schiman is an Associate Professor of economics in the Parker College of Business. He is currently the department’s Solomons Fellow of Economics and is a past recipient of the college's William A. Freeman Professor of the Year Award and the W.A. and Emma Lou Crider Award for Excellence in Teaching. He received his PhD and MA in economics from the University of Illinois at Chicago and his BA in economics from Calvin College. Dr. Schiman's research focuses on applied microeconomics including the fields of labor, health, and education where he has studied the labor market for K-12 educators, the determinants of student academic and labor market success, and health investments and health outcomes. | Teaching PhilosophyI believe everyone is capable of growth, so I meet students where they are and then push them to grow. |
| MA in Economics, University of Illinois at Chicago | BA in Economics, Calvin College | Research Interests
| Economics of Education | Health Economics | Forensic Economics | ||||||
| aking@georgiasouthern.edu | Amanda | King | Professor of Economics | 912-478-0535 | Parker College of Business Room 3320 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Economics | Amanda King, Ph.D., professor of economics, has taught at Georgia Southern University since 2002. Prior to coming to Georgia Southern she taught for two years at Elon University. King’s recent research interests center around the types of signals people use to determine when to purchase experience goods. Her most recent studies consider the market for Broadway Theater tickets. She teaches in the online Master of Science in Applied Economics program as well as introductory and intermediate macroeconomics and money and banking. | Teaching PhilosophyI first came to enjoy economics because I saw how it affected my life. It was immediately clear to me how the topics in my first economics class related to the events that were happening in the world around me. Thus, helping students see how economics is relevant to them has become an underlying focus in my economics classes. |
| MA, Vanderbilt University, 1999 | BA,Agnes Scott College, 1995 | Research Interests
| Signalling in markets | User reviews vs. critical reviews | ||||||||
| mborquez@georgiasouthern.edu | Manuel | Borquez | Senior Military Science Instructor | 312-478-0038 | Military Science Building | Armstrong Campus, Statesboro Campus | Military Science | Department of Military Science | MSG Manuel Borquez, Jr. joined the Eagle Battalion as the Senior Military Science Instructor in August 2024. Originally from Bisbee, Arizona, he joined the Army as a cannon crewmember on June 07, 2007, and conducted Basic Combat Training and Advanced Individual Training at Fort Sill, Ok. | Teaching PhilosophyMilitary science is the study of military processes, institutions, and behavior, along with the study of warfare, and the theory and application of organized coercive force. It is mainly focused on theory, method, and practice of producing military capability in a manner consistent with national defense policy. |
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| cschiman@georgiasouthern.edu | Cuiping | Schiman | Associate Professor | 912-478-8594 | PCOB 1109 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Economics | Cuiping Schiman is an Associate Professor of economics in the Parker College of Business. Her research combines economic theory and modern empirical tools to analyze questions in the markets for healthcare and labor. She has published on the effects of Medicare prescription drug insurance and Medicaid physician fees on various healthcare outcomes, the effects of early childcare policies on human capital development, and the long-term effects of early-life human capital investments. Dr. Schiman received her PhD and MA in Economics from the University of Illinois at Chicago and her Bachelor of Medicine from Shandong University. She also completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the Feinberg School of Medicine at Northwestern University. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy is to help my students develop their skills to expand their potential. |
| MA in Economics, University of Illinois at Chicago, 2012 | Bachelor of Medicine, Shandong University, 2008 | Research Interests
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| jamesthomas@georgiasouthern.edu | James | Thomas | Senior Lecturer | 912-478-0713 | Hendricks Hall 2027 | Statesboro Campus | Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health | Department of Health Policy & Community Health | Dr. James Thomas a Senior Lecturer in the department of Health Policy and Community Health at the Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health. Dr. Thomas holds a MPH and DrPH in Community Health Behavior and Education from Georgia Southern University. Dr. Thomas has over 10 years of community engagement experience working with rural communities in southeastern Georgia in addressing health disparities within underrepresented populations. Dr. Thomas currently researches health risk behaviors and health disparities in minority populations living in rural areas. | Teaching PhilosophyGreek philosopher, Heraclitus, once stated, “No man ever steps in the same river twice, for it’s not the same river and he’s not the same man”. If someone were to ask me to write a book on my teaching career, I feel this quote encapsulates my philosophy as an instructor in the Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health. I believe in using innovation and creativity to encourage critical thinking and problem solving hands-on and practical experience in the classroom. |
| MPH | BSPH | Research Interests
| Rural Health | Men's Health | Social Determinants of Health | |||||||
| stevenelisha@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/cah/music/faculty-and-staff/elisha-steven/ | Steven | Elisha | Director of Orchestras/String Area Head, Professor | 912-478-8558 | Foy 3033 | Statesboro Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Fred & Dinah Gretsch School of Music | Internationally acclaimed cellist, Dr. Steven Elisha, has performed as a soloist and chamber musician throughout Europe, Norway, China, Taiwan, Brazil, Israel and the United States. He began his professional performing career at the age of fifteen and his Carnegie Hall Debut received critical acclaim. Dr. Elisha regularly gives master classes, workshops and residencies throughout the United States. Elisha is co-founder and cellist of the Elaris Duo, with violinist Larisa Elisha. Currently, Dr. Elisha is Professor of Music, Strings Area Head and Director of Orchestras at the Fred and Dinah Gretsch School of Music at Georgia Southern University. | Teaching PhilosophyI believe in helping students find the key that quickly unlocks their potential, for gaining instrumental technical abilities, achieving musical development and maximizing the possibilities for professional successes. I use an individual approach for each student, and the application of natural movement. I believe that when a person applies natural conditions to playing situations, immediate results are evident, allowing the student to acquire quick and permanent technical skills that bring about greater ease in the music making process, self-encouragement and inspiration for further development. I believe my role as a teacher begins with setting an accurate and effective example. |
| Master of Music in Cello Performance - Yale University School of Music | Doctor of Musical Arts in Cello Performance - University of Kansas | Research Interests
| Orchestral Conducting | Chamber Music Performance | String Literature Pedagogy | Symphonic Literature | |||||
| csglover@georgiasouthern.edu | Caroline | Glover | Administrative Assistant II | 912-478-5322 | Hollis 2123 | Statesboro Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Dean's Office | I have served in the Dean's Office since 2010, and have worked on a multitude of projects including, but not limited to: search process, scheduling internal and external visitors to the Dean's Office, planning and organizing college events. | Teaching PhilosophyRemove |
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| kepeace@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/karl-e-peace-2 | Karl | Peace | Professor and Georgia Cancer Coalition Distinguished Cancer Scholar | 912-478-2674 | N/A | Statesboro Campus | Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health | Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology & Environmental Health Sciences | Dr. Karl E. Peace’s generous gift in honor of his wife, Dr. Jiann-Ping Hsu, made the establishment of the JPHCOPH possible. He is a Georgia Southern graduate and earned a Ph.D. in biostatistics from the Medical College of Virginia (VCU). He spent decades in the pharmaceutical industry, contributing to the development of drugs for Alzheimer's disease, gastrointestinal ulcers, and cardiovascular risk reduction. Transitioning to academia, he established 21 endowments, including the College’s Eminent Scholar Chair in Biostatistics. He also founded the Journal of Biopharmaceutical Statistics. A Fellow of the American Statistical Association, Peace has authored over 150 publications and 15 books advancing biostatistics and public health. | Teaching PhilosophyDr. Karl Peace’s teaching philosophy is grounded in his extensive industry experience and commitment to student success. His teaching in clinical trial methodology and drug research is driven by the belief that students must be prepared to contribute to real-world challenges in healthcare. Dr. Peace emphasizes practical applications of biostatistics, integrating case studies from his pharmaceutical career to bridge theory and practice. He is dedicated to mentoring students, and helping them navigate their career paths with the same rigor and passion he brings to his work. His industry experience not only enriches his teaching but also positions students to excel in the evolving field of public health and biostatistics. |
| M.S. in Mathematics, Clemson University, 1964 | B.S. in Chemistry, Georgia Southern College, 1963 | Research Interests
| Drug Research and Development | Biostatistics | Karl E. Peace Center for Biostatistics and Research | ||||||
| hlorden@georgiasouthern.edu | Heather | Lorden | Dr. Heather Lorden, PT, DPT, PCS | 912-344-2767 | Armstrong Center 238 | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Department of Clinical Science | Dr. Lorden received both her Bachelor of Science in Health Science and Master of Science in Physical Therapy degrees from Armstrong Atlantic State University. She then earned her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Medical College of Georgia. She has an extensive clinical background in both geriatrics and pediatrics. She continues to practice at a local outpatient pediatrics clinic. She achieved her Pediatrics Clinical Specialty (PCS) certification in 2019. This accreditation is awarded through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS). | Teaching PhilosophyFor my graduate Doctor of Physical Therapy students, my aim is to foster the development of professionally exceptional clinicians, regardless of background or barriers. Regarding my undergraduate students, my aim is to facilitate excitement for the clinical professions while maintaining a high rigor of learning such that students are prepared to excel in their path to graduate school. |
| Master of Science in Physical Therapy | Pediatric Clinical Specialist | Bachelor of Science in Health Science | Research Interests
| care of the obstetric patient | scholarship of teaching and learning in physical therapy education | |||||||
| lcwilliams@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=HVW6A_QAAAAJ&hl=en | Leah | Williams | Senior Lecturer of Biochemistry & Chemistry | 912-478-5968 | Nursing/Chemistry room 2234 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biochemistry, Chemistry & Physics | My goal has always been to use my training and experience in the field of Chemistry Education to support student success in chemistry. My background has given me extensive experience in teaching introductory chemistry concepts, curriculum alignment, course-based undergraduate research, and the use of open-education resources. I have used, and will continue to use, this experience to refine my teaching here at Georgia Southern. Much of my background has informed the design, implementation and assessment of my general chemistry, survey of chemistry, and graduate level courses. | Teaching PhilosophyI believe that it is our role as instructors to encourage persistence, motivation, and interest in chemistry for students. In my classes, constructing new knowledge and building connections between concepts is a group effort. I use traditional lectures minimally to provide an introduction to new topics and then rely heavily on group work and collaboration to help students learn new content, connect it to previous knowledge, and engage in scientific practices. I provide a mixture of resources, ranging from the textbook and readings to videos and worksheets, to accommodate a wide range of learning preferences. Any new content I introduce is rooted in student prior knowledge and is tied to future applications and real-life examples. |
| B.S., Georgia College and State University, 2010 | Research Interests
| Discipline-Based Education Research (DBER) | Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) | ||||||||
| kparker@georgiasouthern.edu | Kendra R. | Parker | Associate Professor | don't want this online | Armstrong Campus, Statesboro Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of English, Affiliate Faculty in Africana Studies | Kendra R. Parker (Ph.D., Howard University) is an associate professor at Georgia Southern University. She is the author of She Bites Back: Black Female Vampires in African American Women's Novels, 1977-2011 (Lexington, 2018), co-editor of The Bloomsbury Handbook to Octavia E. Butler (Bloomsbury, 2020), and author of Understanding Octavia E. Butler (University of South Carolina Press, 2025). | Teaching Philosophy“the classroom should be an exciting place, never boring” ~bell hooks |
| Research Interests
| Octavia E. Butler | Center for Africana Studies | |||||||||||
| mbrister@georgiasouthern.edu | Monica | Brister | Academic Services Coordinator | 912-478-6986 | Hendricks Hall 1018 | Statesboro Campus | Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health | JPHCOPH Office of the Dean | I am Monica Brister and currently work as the academic services coordinator for JPHCOPH | Teaching PhilosophyN/A |
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| jli@georgiasouthern.edu | Jinrong | Li | Professor | 912-478-5263 | 2218C | Statesboro Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of English | My research focuses on language learning and technology, second language writing assessment, and information literacy. My work has appeared in the Journal of Second Language Writing, Computers and Composition, and Assessing Writing. Currently, I'm working on two collaborative projects: “Comparability of IELTS academic writing tasks and graduate-level multimodal writing tasks at universities in Türkiye, UK, and USA” funded by IELTS and “Partnership on University Plagiarism Prevention” funded by SSHRC. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy centers on creating a student-focused environment where learners take an active role in their education. Through hands-on activities, discussions, and problem-solving, I promote deep engagement and critical thinking. I prioritize authentic learning experiences that connect lessons to real-world applications, helping students see the relevance of their studies. My goal is to foster independent, lifelong learners who can confidently tackle complex problems. |
| Research Interests
| Second language writing assessment | Information literacy | ||||||||||
| herney@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/hans-georg-erney | Hans-Georg | Erney | Professor | 912-344-2696 | Gamble 136 | Armstrong Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of English | He was educated in Germany (Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen), England (Keele University), and the United States (Emory University). In recent years, he has written on the British spoken-word poet Suhaiymah Manzoor-Khan (Journal of Postcolonial Writing), the Kamala Khan Ms. Marvel comic series (Journal of Graphic Novels and Comics), the British poet Daljit Nagra (ARIEL), and Chinese science fiction (MOSF Journal of Science Fiction). He edits the Journal of Global Postcolonial Studies. | Teaching PhilosophyI must decline, for secret reasons. (E. B. White) |
| Ph.D. (Emory University, 2006) | Research Interests
| Ecocriticism and Nature Writing | South Asian Literature and Culture | Contemporary British Literature | Multilingualism | ||||||
| joycewhite@georgiasouthern.edu | Joyce | White | Assistant Professor | 912-478-0455 | 3302B Newton | Statesboro Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of English | Joyce White is Assistant Professor of English in Gullah Geechee Literature and Cultures at Georgia Southern University. She received her Ph.D. in Humanities with a primary focus in African American Studies from Clark Atlanta University and earned a BA and MA in English, with a focus in Creative Writing and literature, from Florida State University. Her research interests include 19th, 20th, and 21st century African American and diasporic literature, as well as African cosmological and spiritual continuities in diasporic literature. | Teaching PhilosophyMy approach to all courses is to not only emphasize the connection between reading, writing, and critical thinking, but to also emphasize the importance and role of cross-discipline learning and engagement. This allows the classroom to transform student engagement and instructor facilitation beyond the physical space and to shape lifelong student citizens and learners who effectively transfer acquired skills into other academic areas and their lives. |
| Research Interests
| Gullah-Geechee Heritage Center | |||||||||||
| coglobli@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?hl=en&user=A9zfR2cAAAAJ | Constantin | Ogloblin | Professor | 912-478-5375 | Parker College of Business | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Economics | Prof. Ogloblin Joined Georgia Southern University in 2000. The courses he regularly teaches are Principles of Microeconomics, Applied Econometrics (graduate), and International Economics (graduate). He has extensive experience developing and teaching online courses at both undergraduate and graduate levels. He also has much experience authoring course materials for principles of economics, intermediate microeconomics, and international economics. His research interests lie in applying econometric methods to examine relevant economic and social issues. | Teaching PhilosophyEducation is not the learning of facts but the training of the mind to think.—Albert Einstein. |
| Research Interests
| Health economics | Economic systems | |||||||||
| jburson@georgiasouthern.edu | http://cah.georgiasouthern.edu/history/home/faculty/burson/ | Jeffrey D. | Burson | Professor | 912-478-8532 | IAB 3010 | Statesboro Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of History | Jeffrey D. Burson specializes in the history of the Enlightenment and the era of the Atlantic Revolutions. He is the article of over thirty peer-reviewed articles and chapters, and is currently the author or editor of five books, including The Culture of Enlightening: Abbé Claude Yvon and the Entangled Emergence of the Enlightenment (Notre Dame, 2019); The Rise and Fall of Theological Enlightenment: Jean-Martin de Prades and Ideological Polarization in Eighteenth-Century France (Notre Dame, 2010); and Enlightenment and Catholicism in Europe (Notre Dame, 2014) co-edited with Ulrich Lehner. | Teaching PhilosophyThe symbiotic interdependence of scholarship and teaching, and the continued relevance of history as both research method and critical foundation of global citizenship are the cornerstones of my teaching philosophy. |
| M.Phil. (History) George Washington University (2003) | B.A. (History/Political Science) Concordia University--Ann Arbor (1999) | Research Interests
| Enlightenment Catholicism | Eighteenth-Century and Revolutionary France | Early Modern Europe | Age of Revolutions, c. 1750 - 1850 | |||||
| sanderson@georgiasouthern.edu | Salena | Anderson | Assistant Professor of English | 912-478-0641 | 2219C Newton Building | Statesboro Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of English | Dr. Salena Anderson's research and teaching explore the intersections of language, literacy, and technology; and her recent work has focused on critical AI literacy. She has published in journals such as Computers and Composition, English Studies, Praxis, and WLN: A Journal of Writing Center Scholarship. In the classroom, Dr. Anderson enjoys teaching courses on the intersections of AI and writing; first-year writing; linguistics; writing center pedagogy; and grammar, style, and editing. | Teaching PhilosophyDr. Anderson values student-centered education that encourages students to transfer knowledge and skills obtained in the classroom to their lives outside the classroom, including applications in their careers, their communities, and their personal lives. Believing that learning is both social and reflective, Dr. Anderson promotes student collaboration as well as individual learner reflection with the goal of helping students to develop both collaborative teamwork skills and effective metacognitive strategies. |
| M.A. in English from the University Georgia (2005) | Research Interests
| Corpus linguistics | Writing centers | Writing assessment | ||||||||
| slandge@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/cosm/bcp/faculty-staff/shainaz-landge/ | Shainaz | Landge | Associate Professor of Chemistry | 912-478-1883 | Nursing Chemistry 3213 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biochemistry, Chemistry & Physics | Dr. Shainaz Landge joined Georgia Southern University in August of 2010. She completed her M.S. degree in Organic Chemistry (2000) from the University of Pune (India), after which she worked as a project assistant at the National Chemical Laboratory in Pune. In 2008, she completed her Ph.D. research at the University of Massachusetts, Boston, and then moved on to a postdoctoral position at Dartmouth College (NH). In her spare time she likes to read, write, watch movies and hang around with friends and family members. | Teaching PhilosophyI strongly believe that: a Teacher is the one who introduces a new perspective; invokes curiosity; enhances critical thinking; challenges misconceptions and promotes motivation to improve students’ abilities. My teaching philosophy is simple: I aim to create an interactive, positive learning environment where the students are engaged and interested in the learning process. |
| M.S. University of Pune, India (2000) | Ph.D. University of Massachusetts, Boston (2008) | Postdoctoral Dartmouth College, New Hampshire (2010) | Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, Georgia (2010 - present) | Research Interests
| Microwave Assisted Organic Synthesis | Detection of toxins and sugar molecules | Chemical Education | Student Motivation | Vertically Integrated Projects (VIP) | ||
| rewhitworth@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/ruth-e-whitworth-2 | Ruth | Whitworth | Assistant Professor | 912-478-7904 | Hendricks Hall, Room 1032 | Statesboro Campus | Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health | Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology & Environmental Health Sciences, Public Health General | Ms. Whitworth has been part of Georgia Southern University since 2004, originally hired to work with the KE Peace Center for Biostatistics in the School of Public Health. After the School transitioned to become the Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health in 2006, Ms. Whitworth transitioned to work for the Dean of the College. Over the years, she has contributed to the growth and development of the College, utilizing her experience in information systems and public health. Her role encompasses administrative coordination, teaching, and participation in university and college committees. | Teaching PhilosophyMs. Whitworth believes that effective teaching is a dynamic process where both instructors and students learn from each other, enriching the educational experience. She emphasizes essential concepts for students' future careers, ensuring they develop both theoretical understanding and practical skills. Engaging in reflective teaching, she continually sharpens her expertise and adapts her methods to stay current in her field. She is committed to creating a safe, inclusive learning environment where diverse perspectives are encouraged, fostering engagement and dialogue to enhance learning. |
| MBA in information systems, University of Memphis, 1997 | BBA in finance, Abilene Christian University, 1984 | Research Interests
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| yxu@georgiasouthern.edu | Yao | Xu | Assistant Professor of Computer Science | 912-478-1357 | IT 2321 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Computer Science | Dr. Yao Xu is a tenure-track assistant professor in the Department of Computer Science at Georgia Southern University. Dr. Xu’s research mainly focuses on designing algorithms for optimization and prediction problems, with applications in transportation, healthcare, and various graph-based network systems. It spans the fields of data science, machine learning, and operations research, addressing complex challenges across these areas. She has so far published about 25 research articles in high-quality, peer-reviewed journals and conferences. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy is rooted in fostering a transformative learning experience that combines theoretical knowledge with practical application. I develop comprehensive, well-organized course materials that are made available to students in advance, encouraging pre-class preparation and enhancing in-class engagement. I place a strong emphasis on integrating research with hands-on practice, designing assignments and projects that prepare students for real-world challenges. Additionally, I prioritize understanding my students' individual learning needs through classroom participation and personal interactions, tailoring my teaching to help them overcome challenges and succeed. |
| M.S., University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2012 | B.S., Zhejiang Gongshang University, China, 2011 | Research Interests
| Predictive Modeling and Machine Learning | Algorithm Design for Optimization Problems | ||||||||
| jmurdock@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/jason-murdock | Jason | Murdock | Associate Professor | 912-478-5167 | Art Building 2003 | Statesboro Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Betty Foy Sanders Department of Art | Jason Murdock has been a faculty member in the Betty Foy Sanders Department of Art at Georgia Southern University since 2017. He received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Visual Communication Design from the Herron School of Art & Design (Indiana University), and a Master of Fine Arts degree in Visual Communication Design from Kent State University (2016). His research interests include typeface design, branding & visual identity design, design processes, and graphic design history. Jason has presented his research both nationally and internationally, and has won awards for teaching as well as for his work as a graphic designer. | Teaching PhilosophyDesign education is rooted in the pre-industrial master-apprentice model. Today, however, technological know-how is no longer the primary requisite for entrance into the design profession. As the tools of the profession become more democratized and many of the tasks that designers perform are being automated, designers must be as strategic in their thinking as they are technologically savvy and as process-oriented as they are aesthetically-inclined. In the classroom, this requires an approach that sometimes strays from traditional methods of instruction to resemble Postman and Weingartner's “inquiry method”, where asking divergent questions may be more appropriate and instructive than providing convergent answers. |
| B.F.A., Indiana University, 2003 | Research Interests
| Branding & Visual Identity Design | Design Processes | Graphic Design History | Center for Public Health Practice and Research | ||||||
| csparks@georgiasouthern.edu | Chad | Sparks | MSG | 912-344-2668 | Armstrong Recreation Center Rm #218 | Armstrong Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Military Science | MSG Sparks joined the Army in 2006 as an Infantryman. He has served with the 2nd ID (2006-2013), 4th ID (2013-2017), 198th Infantry BDE (2017-2019), 2nd Cav Regt (2019-2022), and now with Georgia Southern Eagle BN (2022-current). MSG Sparks has 3 Combat deployments to Afghanistan (2009, 2012, & 2014), 1 Rotational deployment to Poland (2020), and 1 Operational deployment to Romania (2022). He has served as a Reconnaissance Scout, Recon Team Leader, Operations Sergeant, Platoon Sergeant, Senior Drill Sergeant, Company First Sergeant, Brigade Future Operations NCOIC, and currently a Military Science Instructor. MSG Sparks has a combined total of 34 military awards/badges and graduated 26 military schools throughout his tenure. | Teaching PhilosophyEvolved critical thinking and problem solving through experiential learning in a collaborative environment. Utilizing doctrinal foundation and variable assessments students grow through student-teaching roles and responsibilities during laboratory roles in a 'train the trainer' concept. |
| Army Instructor Certification | Military History Instructor Certification | Research Interests
| Military History | |||||||||
| wming@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=eaF3PQsAAAAJ | W. Mashall | Ming | Professor, Distinguished Chair in Materials Science | 912-478-5043 | Chemistry 3232 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biochemistry, Chemistry & Physics | Dr. Ming is currently a Distinguished Chair in Materials Science and a Full Professor in Chemistry at Georgia Southern University in the USA. Prior to joining Georgia Southern, he was a faculty member at University of New Hampshire (2007-2011) and Eindhoven University of Technology in The Netherlands (2000-2007). His research has focused on multifunctional polymer materials and coatings, supported by over $5 million external funding in the U.S. and The Netherlands. Dr. Ming has so far published over 105 peer-reviewed papers, 8 book chapters, and 4 US patents, and he currently serves as an Editor for Progress in Organic Coatings. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy can be summarized in the following keywords: motivating, engaging, interactive, individualized, and proactive learning |
| 1993, B.S. in Materials Chemistry, Fudan University | Research Interests
| Functional polymer hybrid nanocomposites | Center for Advanced Materials Science | GS-CAMS | ||||||||
| jharris@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/john-harris | John | Harris | Associate Professor of Management | 912-478-5997 | College of Business 3350 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Management | John N. Harris is an Associate Professor of Management in the Parker College of Business. He received his Ph.D. in Organizational Behavior and Human Resources from Florida State University in 2017. His research largely focuses on the areas of leadership, organizational politics and political skill, and individual differences in organizational effectiveness, though much of his recent work is in management education. He currently serves as the Human Behavior in Organizations (WMBA 6000) Course Lead for the University System of Georgia’s WebMBA, as a Co-Advisor for the Georgia Southern University Society for Human Resource Management student chapter, and as a member of the Academy of Management Learning & Education Editorial Review Board. | Teaching PhilosophyJohn Harris’s teaching philosophy and much of his current research has explored the incorporation of games and gaming into business classrooms to facilitate experiential learning that is impactful, accessible, and fun for students. He has presented this work and facilitated workshops focused on effectively utilizing games in the classroom at a range of national and regional academic conferences and professional conventions. He currently teaches in the areas of organizational behavior and leadership at both the graduate and undergraduate level. |
| Research Interests
| Organizational Politics | Experiential Learning | Games in Education | Management Education | |||||||
| aakturk@georgiasouthern.edu | Ahmet | Akturk | Associate Professor of History | 912-478-5776 | Interdisciplinary Academic Building, Room 3089 | Statesboro Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of History | I am an Associate Professor of History specializing in Modern Middle East history. My area of interest is the late Ottoman Empire and early Turkish Republic, with an emphasis on the emergence and development of the modern Kurdish identity movement vis-à-vis Ottomanism and Turkish nationalism. I particularly trace the story of the princely Kurdish Bedirkhan family from the late 19th century through the first decades of the 20th century. I also enjoy teaching courses on the Modern Middle East and the wider Muslim world, from the time of Muhammad to modernity, as well as World History since roughly 1500. | Teaching PhilosophyTeaching is an essential component of my scholarly pursuit. Both my survey and upper-level courses aim to familiarize students with the wider world, particularly by understanding people and countries on their own terms and within their historical contexts. I teach my courses on world history, the Middle East, and the Muslim world in a way that encourages students not only to grasp the differences between 'other' cultures and their own but also to recognize surprising similarities. Finally, my courses aim to equip students with skills such as identifying multiple narratives of the same historical events and critically analyzing primary sources, much like they do with present-day information. |
| M.A., University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, 2006 | B.S., Middle East Tehnical University, Ankara, Turkiye, 2004 | Research Interests
| Kurdish National Movement | |||||||||
| tmayogamble@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/dr-tilicia-l-mayo-gamble | Tilicia | Mayo-Gamble | Associate Dean of Practice and Research | 912-478-1249 | Hendricks Hall | Armstrong Campus, Statesboro Campus | Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health | Department of Health Policy & Community Health | Dr. Tilicia Mayo-Gamble is the Associate Dean for Practice and Research and an Associate Professor in the Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health at Georgia Southern University. She is a health services and healthcare disparities researcher with a research agenda focused on implementing community and patient engagement methods to facilitate self-care behaviors and enhance patient-centered care among adults with chronic diseases and marginalized populations. | Teaching PhilosophyDr. Mayo-Gamble uses a backward teaching design that focuses on outcomes and the student-centered approaches necessary to accomplish those outcomes. She teaches Public Health Communication and Advocacy, Research Methodology, and Community Needs Assessment. |
| MPH in Social and Behavioral Science | MA in Applied Communication | BA in Media Arts | CHES | Research Interests
| Community Engagement | Community-based methodology | Health Communication | Sickle Cell Disease | |||
| aschrey@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=lyy7R1UAAAAJ&hl=en&oi=ao | Aaron | Schrey | Professor | 912-478-5487 | SC 1010 | Armstrong Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biology | Professor of Biology | Teaching PhilosophyNA |
| MS Southern Illinois University Carbondale 2001 | BS University of Evansville 1999 | Research Interests
| Molecular Ecology | Population Genetics | Networks in Biology | ||||||
| taylors@georgiasouthern.edu | Sharon | Taylor | Professor | 912-478-0266 | MP 2324 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Mathematical Sciences | I have been teaching at Georgia Southern since 1996. My interests are mathematics education, statistics education, and the teaching of calculus. I am the Chief Reader for Advanced Placement Calculus and spend much of my time working with high school teachers who teach the course. | Teaching PhilosophyI believe most students need to be in a classroom to learn. I know this is not in step with the current proliferation of online courses and programs. Motivated and dedicated students can survive in an online environment, however the vast majority need to be taught by someone who knows their subject matter and truly cares about student learning. I want every student to succeed and work hard designing notes, assignments, and tests to challenge my students and have the grade they earn in my course mean something as they move through their academic career. |
| MA, Sam Houston State University, 1989 | BS in Education, Southwest Texas State University, 1987 | Research Interests
| Statistics Education | Calculus Teaching and Learning | ||||||||
| ericjohnson@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=O6bWlekAAAAJ&hl=en | Eric | Johnson | Senior Lecturer in Biochemistry and Chemistry | 912-478-7266 | Nursing/Chemistry 2232 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biochemistry, Chemistry & Physics | Dr. Johnson is originally from Asheville, NC. He received his B.S. in Chemistry from Centre College in 2010 and his Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry from the University of Utah in 2016. He has been teaching at Georgia Southern since 2016. His research interests are in Chemistry Education and the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning. Dr. Johnson has presented at the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning Conference in Savannah, GA and at the Biennial Conference on Chemical Education. In his free time, Dr. Johnson enjoys reading and hiking. | Teaching PhilosophyMy goal as a teacher is to engage every student in my class. My aim is to spread my enjoyment of chemistry to the students in my class and to make my class a positive learning environment. In my classroom, I use PowerPoint slides and the whiteboard as my primary teaching tools. I also use periodic extra credit pop quizzes to help keep students engaged in my classes. These extra credit pop quizzes encourage students to study between classes and to practice their chemistry. I also use low stakes assessments, such as regularly schedule quizzes to check student understanding. Finally, I constantly adjust my teaching based on student feedback from previous semesters. |
| B.S. Chemistry, Centre College, 2010 | Research Interests
| Scholarship of Teaching and Learning | |||||||||
| mmachingura@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/scholar?hl=en&as_sdt=0%2C11&q=marylou+machingura&oq=marylou+m | Marylou | Machingura | Associate Professor | 912-344-2588 | SC112 | Armstrong Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biology | Marylou C. Machingura is an Associate Professor of Biology with a Ph.D. in Plant Biology from Southern Illinois University, Carbondale. Dr. Machingura teaches botany and other plant related courses, and research focuses on improving crop photosynthesis, drought tolerance, physiological and molecular mechanisms of various crop plants. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy centers on fostering critical thinking and a deep appreciation for plants among students and society at large. I emphasize student-centered goals and diverse teaching strategies, using case studies and groupwork to enhance understanding and engagement. My experience spans teaching various plant biology courses at both undergraduate and graduate levels, where I integrate research concepts into the classroom to provide real-life context. I believe in setting high, achievable goals and using multiple forms of feedback. My aim is to cultivate an environment where students can question, explore, and appreciate the complexities of biology as it relates to life and the environment. |
| MS, Wageningen University and Research Center | BS Africa University | Research Interests
| Polyaspartic acid and plant growth | Physiology of yaupon holy | College Office of Undergraduate Research, Botanic Garden, COSM Core Research Lab, Business Innovation Group (BIG) | ||||||
| sdavis@georgiasouthern.edu | Sarah | Davis | Senior Lecturer | 912-478-7402 | Hanner Fieldhouse 2320C | Statesboro Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Department of Health Science & Kinesiology | Sarah Davis is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Health Sciences and Kinesiology at Georgia Southern University. Since 2016, she has helped develop the Physical Activity and Lifestyle (PAL) program, guiding students to lifelong wellness. Davis holds multiple certifications, including CSCS and FMS. Davis regularly presents at national conferences and incorporates the latest exercise science research into her work. Davis also volunteers as a youth sports coach and serves as treasurer for the Ebenezer Elementary PTO, reflecting her passion for mentoring and community involvement. | Teaching PhilosophyTeaching Kinesiology has been a fulfilling journey for me, centered on a student-focused, active learning approach. I aim to inspire students to take ownership of their fitness, apply wellness strategies, and develop coaching skills in strength and conditioning. My approach emphasizes meeting students where they are, using tailored methods based on pre-assessments to ensure progress at their own pace. I integrate wellness concepts through reflective assignments and diverse modules, fostering holistic growth. In strength coaching courses, hands-on learning builds competence and confidence. My goal is to instill lifelong passion for fitness and learning. |
| Research Interests
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| ieiacob@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/ionut-e-iacob-2 | Ionut | Iacob | Associate Professor of Mathematics | 912-478-0164 | Math/Physics 3328 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Mathematical Sciences | Dr. Ionut Emil Iacob holds a Ph.D. in Computer Science and a MS in Mathematics (both from the University of Kentucky) and a BS in Electrical Engineering (Politechnica University of Bucharest) and joined the Department of Mathematical Sciences in 2007. He has advised numerous undergraduate students and graduate students who completed their MS theses under his direction. Emil has served/serves in numerous department committees, program committees for conferences and editor for journals, and performed numerous reviews for conferences and journals. His research interests include data science and computational mathematics. Emil teaches graduate and undergraduate Mathematics and Statistics courses on Statesboro campus. | Teaching PhilosophyI believe that a good teaching career is built on excellent knowledge about a topic and passion for communicating that knowledge to others. The main goal of education is, of course, learning. Although students have to learn certain facts, factual knowledge by itself does not lead to acceptable scientific progress. I emphasize creative and critical thinking by students and I believe that teaching is also a learning experience. I learn that teaching the same material to different classes requires different teaching strategies. So I have learned to be flexible in approach and methodology. I pay attention to students’ questions and observations, as I consider them a great opportunity to learn from and about students. |
| MS Mathematics, Computer Science, University of Kentucky, 2002 | BS Electrical Engineering, Politehnica University Bucharest | Research Interests
| Computational Mathematics | ||||||||
| tcyronak@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/tyler-cyronak | Tyler | Cyronak | Assistant Professor | 912-344-3086 | Armstrong Science Center 1006 | Armstrong Campus, Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biology, School of Earth, Environment & Sustainability | I lead the Coastal Carbon Laboratory (CCL) at the Institute for Coastal Plain Science at Georgia Southern University. Our research centers on the carbon cycle within coastal ecosystems, including estuaries, marshes, coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass beds. We are particularly interested in understanding the critical role these ecosystems play in the global carbon cycle, how they are impacted by climate change, and their potential to contribute to carbon dioxide removal from the atmosphere. | Teaching PhilosophyMy goal is to cultivate curiosity, critical analysis, and practical skills in the next generation of scientists. Critical thinking forms the cornerstone of science, and I strive to help students develop and sharpen this skill across all levels of education, from introductory courses to advanced graduate seminars. For environmental science students, learning extends beyond the classroom. Immersing students in the ecosystems they study is vital for a deeper understanding of the subject matter. I incorporate field trips and hands-on research projects into my courses, ensuring that students gain direct experience with the environments they are learning about. |
| MS 2007 Marine Biology, University of North Carolina Wilmington | BS 2004 Biology & English, University of Miami, FL | Research Interests
| Marine biogeochemistry | Carbon dioxide removal | Coastal ecosystems | Global environmental change | James H. Oliver, Jr., Institute for Coastal Plain Science | ||||
| yilin@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Yi-Lin-49?ev=hdr_xprf&_tp=eyJjb250ZXh0Ijp7ImZpcnN0UGFnZSI6InB1YmxpY2F0aW9uIiwicGFnZSI6ImhvbWUiLCJwb3NpdGlvbiI6Imdsb2JhbEhlYWRlciJ9fQ | Yi | Lin | Professor of Mathematics | 912-478-0251 | MP 2306 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Mathematical Sciences | I received my Ph.D in mathematics from Cornell University in 2004 with Professor Reyer Sjamaar being my thesis advisor. I was a visiting assistant professor at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in the academic year of 2004 - 2005, and a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Toronto in the academic year of 2005-2008. I joined the faculty of Georgia Southern University in 2008 as a tenure track assistant professor, and was promoted to professor of mathematics in 2019. | Teaching Philosophyn/a |
| Research Interests
| Poisson geometry | geometry and topology of foliations | Kahler geometry of toric quasi-folds | none | |||||||
| ccasey@georgiasouthern.edu | Carly | Casey | Visiting Instructor of Mathematics | 912-478-5390 | Math/Physics 2042C | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Mathematical Sciences | Mrs. Casey is a visiting instructor of mathematics on the Statesboro campus . She joined the Georgia Southern University Mathematical Sciences department in 2024. | Teaching Philosophyn/a |
| B.S., Georgia Southern University, 2022. | Research Interests
| Combinatorics | n/a | |||||||||
| rcohen@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/risa-cohen | Risa | Cohen | Professor and Interim Chair of Biology | 912-478-5487 | Biological Sciences 3338; Biological Sciences 1136; Science Center 102 | Armstrong Campus, Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biology | Dr. Risa Cohen is a Professor of Biology at Georgia Southern University. She received her B.S. in Biology and Environmental Studies from Tufts University, and earned her Ph.D. in Biology from the University of California, Los Angeles. Her research interests include aquatic community structure, nutrient dynamics, restoration ecology, and ecotoxicology. Since arriving at Georgia Southern, she mentored graduate students while conducting projects in freshwater and coastal systems in Georgia, studying rivers, coastal marshes, and subtidal rocky reefs. She is currently investigating how changes in these environments affect organisms, communities, and ecosystems to address applied issues, including monitoring and restoration. | Teaching PhilosophyI believe that successful classes are those designed to have students take an active role in their learning. As an instructor and mentor, I include new topics and current events, and develop innovative activities to interest and motivate students in both face-to-face and online environments. I make course material relatable to the students, and use combinations of aural, visual and written methods with multiple types of technology in an inclusive environment. I also incorporate research ideas and techniques whenever possible in my laboratory courses to produce well-trained, career-ready scientists with critical thinking skills. Courses I teach include: Toxicology, Aquatic Ecology, Evolution & Ecology, Research Methods, and Applied Biology. |
| B.S., Tufts University, 1996 | Research Interests
| wetland restoration | water quality | ecotoxicology | nutrient dynamics | James H. Oliver, Jr., Institute for Coastal Plain Science | |||||
| gstarling@georgiasouthern.edu | Gin | Starling McPhail | Senior Lecturer | 912-478-7824 | IT Building, Room 3120 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Finance | As a Realtor since 2006, I enjoying bringing real world experiences to the classroom. | Teaching PhilosophyI teach by example and use real world experiences to make the the topics interesting. |
| BBA from Georgia Southern University | Realtor 2006 - Present, Broker 2009 - Present | Real Estate Appraiser 2015 - Present | Research Interests
| Appraisal | ||||||||
| caumack@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/cosm/biology/faculty-staff/craig-aumack/ | Craig | Aumack | Associate Professor | 912-478-5894 | Biol 2270 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biology | My research focuses on the physiological, biochemical, and ecological adaptations of both macro- and microalgae to their environments as well as their influences on overall community structure. I am currently working in polar sea ice communities, specifically changes in their community and chemical composition resultant from varying abiotic factors associated with local climatic shifts. This includes the contribution this material has on underlying marine communities once exported from the sea ice and how those contributions may vary in a rapidly changing polar system. | Teaching PhilosophyI believe the most effective teaching strategies combine elements of introductory topic explanation, active learning through organized thought exercises, followed by application of newly learned material into unfamiliar circumstances. This progressive strategy facilitates students’ ability to understand presented material beyond simple memorization and further develops their capacity to learn and retain new concepts, ultimately developing skills necessary to succeed in science. Additionally, I believe both written and oral communication skills are essential for student success because they are required elements for most professional scientific endeavors and explaining concepts, using your own words, typically increases subject retention. |
| M.S. The University of Texas Marine Science Institute | PhD. University of Alabama Birmingham | Research Interests
| Microalgae | Chemical Ecology | Sea Ice Communities | ||||||
| jbeck@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/parker/economics/jason-beck/ | Jason | Beck | Associate Professor | 912-344-2536 | Hawes Hall 210B | Armstrong Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Economics | I received my PhD in economics from the University of Kentucky. I routinely teach courses such as Managerial Economics, Labor Economics, Industrial Organization, and Health Economics, as well as Principles-level economics courses and Introduction to Business. I also direct the Coastal GA Center for Economic Education. My research interests are broad, but often focus on residential real estate brokerage. | Teaching PhilosophyI strive to make my courses challenging, interactive, and applicable. |
| MA, Economics, Miami University | BA, Economics, Bellarmine University | Research Interests
| Labor Economics | Real Estate Economics | Health Economics | Coastal Georgia Center for Economic Education | |||||
| twu@georgiasouthern.edu | Tiehang | Wu | Professor | 912-478-5489 | Herty 2108 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biology | My research includes the relationship of microorganisms to plant production, focused on molecular approaches to understand diversity and communities of soil organisms under different land management practices and at a global scale. The goal of my research is to apply the theory of microbial ecology and molecular microbiology to understand microbial community interactions and the relationships of soil microorganisms to plant health, sustainable plant production, and environmental qualities. In recent years, I have been focusing on the research of soil microorganisms and nitrogen cycling in ecosystems, aimed to provide fundamental knowledge in maintaining healthy soils, sustaining plant productivity, and enhancing water and air quality. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy encompasses the principle that each student has the ability, dignity, and worth to achieve his or her full potential; and that this potential can be reached by developing their self-esteem and desire for an education with a positive encouragement and respect. My responsibility is to inspire the interests and talents of students and help them to fulfill their full potential. |
| Research Interests
| Environmental Microbiology | Soil Ecology | Mycorrhizal Fungi | Molecular Biology | James H. Oliver, Jr., Institute for Coastal Plain Science | |||||||
| cminchey@georgiasouthern.edu | Coral | Minchey | Laboratory Coordinator - Biology | 912-344-2702 | SC 1017 | Armstrong Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biology | Coral grew up in Savannah, GA and enjoys learning about and exploring the local marshes, rivers, and ocean. | Teaching PhilosophyEveryone learns differently, but we all have a passion for something. Use the passion and creativity to engage the masses and the individuals. |
| M.S. in Marine Sciences, Savannah State University | Research Interests
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| bmckay@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=3wjTFmUAAAAJ&hl=en | Britton | McKay | Associate Dean | 912-478-5582 | Parker College of Business 2253D | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | School of Accountancy | Britton McKay is the associate dean for students and external affairs for the Parker College of Business. She earned her Ph.D. in accounting from Southern Illinois University in 2007 and joined the faculty of Georgia Southern University that same year. She was promoted to Professor in 2018 and joined the deans’ office in 2020.McKay has co-authored over 20 publications in journals including Journal of Information Systems, Academy of Management Learning and Education, Journal of Taxation, and Journal of Accountancy. Her research has been cited hundreds of times in both academic circles and popular press. She is known for being an approachable problem solver in Parker College, and someone who truly cares for her students. | Teaching PhilosophyLearning should never stop. As educators we should constantly seek out new knowledge, teaching methods, technologies and strategies that can help in our research and teaching. Our research should help guide our teaching and we need to be open to learning from and with our students. Growing ourselves to grow others. |
| Master of Accountancy, Southern Illinois University Carbondale, 2003 | B.S. Accounting, Southern Illinois University Carbondale, 2001 | B.S. Finance, Southern Illinois University Carbondale, 2001 | Research Interests
| Forensic Accounting/ Whistleblowing | Accounting Information Systems | ||||||
| dgleason@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/daniel-gleason | Daniel | Gleason | Director, School of Earth, Environment & Sustainability | 912-478-5178 | Herty 1110A | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | School of Earth, Environment & Sustainability | In my current position I promote interdisciplinary research and education directed toward the sustainable use and management of Earth’s physical and biological resources. I also maintain research programs in both tropical and temperate marine ecosystems. Recent work on Caribbean reefs has been focused on coral reproduction and recruitment and the role these processes play in the repopulation of degraded reefs. My temperate work is conducted on benthic hard bottoms of the South Atlantic Bight and most recently has focused on the ability of marine invertebrates to withstand the combined effects of reductions in sea water pH and increases in temperature resulting from carbon dioxide emissions. | Teaching PhilosophyMy goal as a biology educator is to cultivate thoughtful, curious, and competent scientists who can apply their understanding of biology to solve real-world problems. By emphasizing hands-on learning, inquiry, and critical thinking, I endeavor to inspire a sense of wonder about the natural world and equip students with the tools to become informed and active participants in positively shaping the future. |
| Ph.D., University of Houston, 1992 | M.S., University of Houston, 1984 | B.S., Furman University, 1980 | Research Interests
| Marine Invertebrates | Reproduction and Recruitment | Climate Change | Ocean Acidification | James H. Oliver, Jr., Institute for Coastal Plain Science | |||
| svives@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=lM7Z4gwAAAAJ&hl=en | Stephen | Vives | Professor | 912-478-5954 | Biological Sciences 1140 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biology | Stephen P. Vives received his Ph.D. in Zoology, with a minor in Applied Statistics, from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and he joined the faculty of Georgia Southern University in 1990. Currently a Professor in the Department of Biology, he served as the Department Chair of Biology from 2002 to 2022. Dr. Vives received a University Award of Excellence in Leadership in 2021. His regular teaching assignments include the Biological Basis of Animal Behavior, Vertebrate Zoology, Ichthyology, Ornithology, and Graduate Seminar. Research is focused on aquatic ecology of the Coastal Plain, with an emphasis on fishes. | Teaching PhilosophyI strive to offer courses that are positive experiences, with lifelong impact, to every student in the course. I believe that anyone with the required prerequisite knowledge can be successful in the courses I teach. I utilize a variety of teaching methodologies including traditional lecturing, project and research-based learning, peer-peer learning, and laboratory-based skill development. I regularly participate in continuing education related to instruction and have a certificate from the Association of College and University educators and the American Council on Education in Effective College Instruction, and I am a former Governor's Teaching Fellow. |
| Ph.D., University of Wisconsin-Madison | M.S., University of Wisconsin-Madison | M.S., Oklahoma State University | B.S., Oklahoma State University | Research Interests
| Animal Behavior | Conservation Biology | Aquatic Ecology | Vertebrate Zoology | James H. Oliver, Jr., Institute for Coastal Plain Science | ||
| emondor@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=ggf6oDkAAAAJ&hl=en | Ed | Mondor | Associate Professor | 912-478-7908 | BIOL 1124 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biology | Ed Mondor is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biology. Along with teaching three courses every semester, he has almost 40 peer-reviewed publications in journals such as Global Change Biology, Journal of Evolutionary Biology, and Journal of Insect Behavior, and has had his research featured in Science Magazine. In addition to his studies on insect behavior, ecology, and evolution, he is the only Forensic Entomologist in Georgia. Over the past 12 years, he has contributed to over 30 death investigations by determining the “time of death” of human decedents using insect evidence. | Teaching PhilosophyI consider teaching to be an essential part of science, as biology is not just a collection of facts, but a dynamic field best taught by individuals actively involved in the research process. Information acquired through research gains new meaning when it is integrated with current knowledge and distributed to a larger audience. I believe that courses are best taught by enthusiastic, knowledgeable instructors, as students become genuinely excited about biological concepts only if the instructors are truly interested in the material being presented. |
| M.Sc., University of Alberta, 1996 | B.Sc., Brandon University, 1993 | Research Interests
| Forensic Entomology | Community Safety | Institute for Health Logistics & Analytics | ||||||
| mcutwa@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?view_op=list_works&hl=en&user=KMJ9CnUAAAAJ | Michele | Cutwa | Senior Lecturer | 912-344-2520 | Science Center 141 | Armstrong Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biology | Michele Cutwa is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Biology. Ms. Cutwa teaches majors and non-majors courses, and is the Armstrong Campus Biology Greenhouse manager. | Teaching PhilosophyIn my courses, I try to create an engaging classroom experience that fosters curiosity, promotes critical thinking, and active discussion. Standards are set with the expectation that students will be motivated to investigate scientific problems and appreciate biodiversity as lifelong learners. |
| B.S. Nazareth College 1991 | Research Interests
| Fish feeding ecomorphology | Freeze-tolerance in herptiles | ||||||||
| mtiemeyer@georgiasouthern.edu | Michael | Tiemeyer | Associate Professor | 912-344-2929 | University Hall 279 | Armstrong Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Mathematical Sciences | Dr. Tiemeyer is a teacher and scholar at Georgia Southern University. He has worked in academia since 2010, teaching both face-to-face and distance learning courses. His major field of research is graph theory with a focus on cycle decompositions of large graphs. | Teaching PhilosophyI believe in teaching students for life. To do this, I use an eclectic collection of tools, techniques, and theories that I match to content, context, and learners in order to engage students with the following objectives in mind: 1) My job is to make myself obsolete, and 2) We learn by doing for ourselves. |
| M.A.M Auburn University, 2008 | B.S. Auburn University, 2006 | Research Interests
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| jhoopes@georgiasouthern.edu | Jennifer | Hoopes | Executive Assistant II | 912-344-2565 | Ashmore Hall 131 | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Office of the Dean, Waters College of Health Professions | Jennifer had careers in communications, and healthcare administration in her home state of Montana before becoming Executive Assistant to the Dean at Armstrong State University in 2016. She negotiates and manages over 1,000 Student Affiliation Agreements for the Waters College of Health Professions with healthcare facilities across the country. In 2021 she earned her Master’s degree from Georgia Southern in Professional Communication and Leadership. Jennifer is proud to be a responsive Go To person for staff, faculty and students. She is also passionately involved with the development of the Health Professions Physic Garden outside Ashmore Hall. | Teaching PhilosophyJennifer is a life-long learner who completed her Bachelor’s degree at 40 when online education was in its infancy. She earned her Master’s degree when her contemporaries were stepping into retirement. Based on those experiences she readily champions older, non-traditional students. Her philosophy is that faculty who recognize and appreciate the non-scholarly wisdom older students bring to class, enrich both themselves and the balance of the cohort. |
| B.A. Montana State University, 2001 | Research Interests
| Effective Cross Cultural communication in healthcare | ||||||||||
| kours@georgiasouthern.edu | Katharine | Ours | Administrative Assistant II | 912-478-0829 | Carroll Building, Room 2287B | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Political Science & International Studies | I am the administrative assistant for the Department of Political Science and International Studies. I have a Bachelor's of Science in Applied Mathematics from Fresno Pacific University. | Teaching PhilosophyN/A |
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| kberecz@georgiasouthern.edu | Kasey | Berecz | Executive Assistant II | 912-478-6068 | Veazey Hall Suite 2000 | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Dean's Office | N/A | Teaching PhilosophyN/A |
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| tcsmith@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/t-christopher-smith-2 | Thomas | Smith | Assistant Professor | 912-478-8545 | IAB 3077 | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | School of Human Ecology | NCIDQ certified and registered interior designer with licenses in both Georgia and Florida, Chris has over twenty years professional design experience. He has practiced residential and commercial interior design attaining both CAPS and EDAC certifications. For over a decade he has focused on teaching, scholarship, service, and student success initiatives in higher education. Drawing upon his extensive practical experience in the building arts, he has been able to apply critical, industry-relevant knowledge to create curriculum for, and at times oversee coordination of, various CIDA accredited undergraduate interior design programs across the US. | Teaching PhilosophyI see design curricula as a means of guiding creative and unique opportunity seeking resolutions and provides the foundation for a strong understanding of how humans interact with and respond to their environments |
| BFA Interior Design, AIA, 2007 | Research Interests
| Design Pedagogy | |||||||||
| bradleysturz@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/bradley-r-sturz-2 | Brad | Sturz | Professor | 912-344-2846 | Solms | Armstrong Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Psychology | Brad earned his B.A. (2002), M.S. (2004), and Ph.D. (2007) all from Auburn University. His teaching interests include Introduction to Psychology, Research Methods, Statistics, and Evolutionary Psychology. His research interests are broad within the realm of learning, memory, and cognition, and his recent research focuses on spatial learning, memory, and cognition. Utilizing virtual-environment technology, he is interested in determining the basic mechanisms underlying orientation and navigation for the purposes of informing research and theory on how humans (and other mobile organisms) process, store, and utilize spatial information. | Teaching PhilosophyI desire to promote and facilitate learning. I wish to engage, instruct, and inform my students in relevant subject matter through research, personal knowledge, personal experience, and class discussion. Ultimately, I strive to develop and utilize innovative teaching methods in both the classroom and the laboratory to foster skill acquisition, promote curiosity, and encourage life-long learning. |
| M.S. Psychology | Ph.D. Psychology | Research Interests
| Spatial Orientation | Spatial Navigation | |||||||
| acurrence@georgiasouthern.edu | Anna | Currence O'Neal | Administrative Assistant II | 912-344-2593 | University Hall 226 | Armstrong Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Betty Foy Sanders Department of Art, Department of Criminal Justice & Criminology, School of Human Ecology, Department of Political Science & International Studies, Department of Psychology, Department of Public & Nonprofit Studies, Department of Sociology & Anthropology. | Anna is a graduate of Georgia Southern's Betty Foy Sanders Department of Art (BFSDoA) and has worked full-time as an Administrative Assistant for Georgia Southern since 2018. During that time, she has been using USG's Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) to work toward her masters in Professional Communication and Leadership. Anna is also a professional visual artist and runs the brand ANCO Artistry with her husband. Apart from her career and educational efforts, Anna has an intense loyalty to her family (including found family) and devotes most of her free time to hosting them in Savannah or traveling to visit. | Teaching PhilosophyI am not a teacher by profession. But, my philosophy is that a teacher should be a life-long learner and instill the value of that trait in their students. I don't want to learn from someone who thinks they know everything; I want to learn from someone who knows they don't and unceasingly tries to find / clarify answers. |
| In-progress: MA from Georgia Southern | Research Interests
| Art History | Communications | |||||||||
| aptyson@georgiasouthern.edu | Ashlie | Tyson | Administrative Assistant II | 912-344-2762 | Science Center 201 | Armstrong Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Psychology | . | Teaching Philosophy. |
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| tdaily@georgiasouthern.edu | Tekitha | Daily | Administrative Assistant I | 912-344-2896 | Armstrong Center Room 256 | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Department of Clinical Science | Tekitha Daily is an Administrative Assistant at Georgia Southern University-Armstrong Campus. With a background in business administration, she brings strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a proactive approach to supporting daily operations. Tekitha is passionate about creating efficient workflows and providing excellent administrative support to both faculty and staff. In addition to her role at the university, she is pursuing a bachelor's degree in business administration, which complements her professional skills. Her expertise includes proficiency in Microsoft Office, BANNER, and Qualtrics Surveys. | Teaching Philosophyn/a |
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| sgoel@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.linkedin.com/in/swgoel/ | Swati | Goel | Assistant Professor | 912-478-7312 | Interdisciplinary Academic Building | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | School of Human Ecology | Swati Goel is an Assistant Professor of Interior Design at Georgia Southern University. She recently got her Ph.D. in Planning Design and the Built Environment from Clemson University, focusing on healthcare design and research. She also received a Bachelor’s in Architecture in 2013 from the School of Planning and Architecture in India and a Master of Science in Architectural Design and Research from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, in 2018. She believes design should be rooted in evidence-based research and is currently researching the impact of the critical care environment on family-centered rounds, staff workflows, and family and staff satisfaction with care. | Teaching PhilosophyTeaching is an acquired skill that evolves with practice. Adopting a growth mindset and listening to understand is vital, especially as a teacher or mentor. The principles of self-regulated design learning (Powers, 2016) emphasize mastery over performance. A teacher's role is to provide support and instructional guidance to facilitate meaningful and coherent knowledge exchange. A teacher or student should strive for balance to be effective and open to feedback. At the same time, it is equally important to set appropriate standards for assessment to encourage intrinsic motivation. The 'teach back' technique in design and research settings can be used to share ideas among students and teach them to self-advocate. |
| Master of Science in Architecture Design and Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor | Bachelor of Architecture, School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi, India | Research Interests
| Patient room design for intellectually disabled adults | Designing to improve family and staff experiences | Workflows and processes fo family-centered rounding in pediatric settings | ||||||
| smullis@georgiasouthern.edu | Sandra | Mullis | Clinical Coordinator for the RiteCare Center for Communication Disorders | 912-344-2788 | RiteCare Center- Suite 25 of the Armstrong Center (13040 Abercorn Street), | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Department of Clinical Science | Sandra Mullis is a speech-language pathologist and serves as Clinical Instructor and Clinical Coordinator for the RiteCare Center for Communication Disorders at Georgia Southern University. Sandra has over 12 years of clinical experience within the pediatric outpatient treatment setting, as well as in student mentorship and supervision. | Teaching PhilosophyAs a clinical instructor and clinic coordinator, I prioritize open communication, structured feedback, and adaptable mentorship to support the evolving needs of my graduate student clinicians. My teaching philosophy centers on fostering clinical growth through hands-on experience, tailored guidance, and collaboration with fellow instructors. Drawing on over 12 years of pediatric practice and leadership roles, I emphasize both clinical and professional development while cultivating a supportive, team-based learning environment. This approach enables students to build confidence, refine their clinical skills, and prepare for diverse practice settings. |
| Research Interests
| Rite Care Center for Communications Disorders | |||||||||||
| mtippy@georgiasouthern.edu | Maria | Tippy | Administrative Assistant I | 912-344-2735 | RiteCare Center Suite 25 | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Department of Clinical Science | Administrative assistant in the RiteCare Center providing support to clinical instructors, student clinicians, and clients of the RiteCare Center. | Teaching Philosophyremove |
| Research Interests
| Rite Care Center for Communications Disorders | |||||||||||
| nradko@georgiasouthern.edu | Nick | Radko | Senior Lecturer | 912-478-5640 | Herty 1100D | Armstrong Campus, Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | School of Earth, Environment & Sustainability | Nick Radko has earned degrees in Geology, Environmental Science, and Archaeology and worked in gold exploration and cultural resource management before becoming an educator. He has been a faculty member at Georgia Southern since 2013, and primarily teaches Environmental Geology lectures and labs within the School of Earth, Environment, and Sustainability on the Statesboro and Armstrong campuses. | Teaching PhilosophyMy goals as an educator have increasingly focused on creating a classroom environment that accommodates and embraces students from a wide variety of backgrounds who exhibit diverse learning styles. By making the study of Earth inclusive and accessible, and showcasing my passion for the subject, I encourage students to develop their own interests and connections to our planet. |
| B.S., University of Virginia, 2008 | Research Interests
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| lorenzabeati@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/lorenza-beati-ziegler | Lorenza | Beati | Professor/Curator | Room 3058B, Math/Physics Annex in Natural Sciences | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biology, School of Earth, Environment & Sustainability | I have been at Georgia southern University since 2004. I am professor in the Biology Department and Curator of the U.S. National Tick Collection. My research centers on tick systematics, with emphasis on morpholgical and molecular taxonomy, evolution, phylogeography, and population genetics. I am sometimes also involved in the study of tick ecology and tick-borne diseases. Having a medical degree, I am also involved in research on micro-organisms carried by arthropod vectors. My primary mission is to do research, but I have taught undergraduate and graduate classes. | Teaching PhilosophyBecause I am primarily a researcher, I like to involve students in my field and laboratory work. I like to take them along the scientific process in order to prepare the next generation of scientists. |
| MD, Université de Lausanne (Switzerland) | Doctor in Medicine, Université de Lausanne (Switzerland) | Research Interests
| Evolution | Medical Entomology | Population Genetics | Tick-Borne diseases | James H. Oliver, Jr., Institute for Coastal Plain Science, U.S. National Tick Collection | |||||
| sstoddard@georgiasouthern.edu | Sidney | Stoddard | Assistant Professor of Physical Therapy, Director of Clinical Education | 912-344-3315 | Armstrong Center, Room 234 | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Department of Clinical Science | Dr. Sidney Stoddard is an Assistant Professor and the Director of Clinical Education for Georgia Southern University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy Program in Savannah, GA. Clinically, Dr. Stoddard has worked in outpatient orthopedics and sports medicine. Dr. Stoddard has helped athletes at the amateur, high school, collegiate, and professional levels return to their associated sports. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Stoddard worked as a cardiopulmonary and critical care physical therapist at Lehigh Valley Health Network. He has served as the principal investigator on award-winning research and co-authored multiple peer-reviewed publications in sports and human performance journals. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy is grounded in the belief that education is a transformative process that empowers students to become compassionate, competent, and innovative clinicians. My approach is centered on three core principles: student-centered learning, evidence-based practice, and lifelong learning. I believe that students learn best when they are actively engaged. Physical therapy requires continuous learning and adaptation. I strive to inspire a passion for lifelong learning in my students and I encourage my students to pursue ongoing professional growth by fostering a mindset that values curiosity and self-improvement. |
| Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), Quinnipiac University | Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Health and Science Studies, Quinnipiac University | Research Interests
| neurocognitive task development | return to activity screening | human performance optimization | tactical and occupational athlete performance | Biodynamics and Human Performance Center | |||||
| ydillon@georgiasouthern.edu | Yvonne | Dillon | Lecturer/Director of Clinical Education - Sonography | 912-344-2779 | Ashmore Hall 152 | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Department of Clinical Science | I am committed to guiding students to become the best professionals they can be by targeting their strengths throughout their learning. I have been teaching in the classroom and laboratory setting since 2016. Prior to that I was a clinical preceptor at one of our clinical facilities. I am a diagnostic medical sonographer, registered in Abdomen and Obstetrics and Gynecology. I have a passion for interprofessional education and have completed numerous interprofessional projects with multiple departments in the Waters College of Health Professions. | Teaching PhilosophyMy philosophy of teaching has evolved as I have. As a student myself, at the start of my career in academia, I felt well suited to teaching and incredibly relatable. I have two main principles that guide me in my teaching. Those two principles are communication and lifelong learning. Using these two principles in the lab, classroom and life in general keep me informed about my students and my field. These principles allow me to stay ahead of the game. |
| B.S., Radiologic Sciences - Sonography, Armstrong State University 2012 | B. A., Broadcasting, Georgia Southern University 2003 | Research Interests
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| jbradshaw@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/chp/clinical/faculty-and-staff/jan-bradshaw/ | Jan | Bradshaw | Associate Professor | 912-344-3159 | Room 252, Armstrong Center | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Department of Clinical Science | Jan Bradshaw received her Ph.D. in Communications Sciences and Disorders from Louisiana State University in 2014. She is an associate professor in the Communications Sciences and Disorders (CSDS) program in the Department of Clinical Sciences. Her clinical experiences are within schools, early intervention, and university clinics. Her research interests include multicultural counseling, pediatric social communication skills, and the scholarship of teaching and learning. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy centers on fostering a dynamic and inclusive learning environment where critical thinking, problem-based learning, active engagement, and evidence-based practices intersect to promote high-level learning and clinical application. My goal is to inspire lifelong learners who are prepared to navigate complex challenges in clinical settings and encourage them to be leaders in their education. |
| M.C.D., LSU Health Sciences Center, 2007 | B.S., University of South Alabama, 2004 | Research Interests
| Pediatric Social Communication Skills | Scholarship of Teaching and Learning | Rite Care Center for Communications Disorders | ||||||
| aamason@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/allen-c-amason-2 | Allen | Amason | Dean, Parker College of Business | 912-478-0958 | Parker College - Dean Office | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Dean Office | Allen C. Amason is Dean of the Parker College of Business at Georgia Southern University. He holds a Ph.D. in Strategic Management and International Business from the University of South Carolina and has taught at Mississippi State and the University of Georgia, where he was Chair of the Department of Management. Dr. Amason has published widely, served on editorial boards of leading journals, and was Associate Editor of the Journal of Management Studies and the Journal of Management. He authored the textbook Strategic Management: From Theory to Practice and is a Fellow of the Southern Management Association. An award-winning teacher and consultant, he has worked with clients like Exide Technologies, Johnson & Johnson, and AMD. | Teaching PhilosophyI am a professor of strategic management, and my teaching philosophy emphasizes fostering critical thinking, adaptability, and ethical decision-making based on long-term value. I guide students beyond traditional concepts, encouraging them to tackle complex, real-world challenges.My goal is to apply strategic management principles to help students achieve superior outcomes for customers, organizations, and stakeholders. This preparation enables them to analyze, adapt, and lead in dynamic environments while considering the broader impact of their decisions. Effective strategic leaders align business objectives with sustainable, value-driven results, and I am committed to cultivating these capabilities in my students. |
| BBA, Georgia Southern University | Research Interests
| Strategic Decision Making | |||||||||
| Asiccardi@georgiasouthern.edu | Anthony | Siccardi | Assistant Professor | 912-344-2844 | Science Center 262 | Armstrong Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biology | My research interests include aquaculture of commercially important fish and shellfish species, aquaculture nutrition, algae production for biofuel and bioproducts, and Algal Turf Scrubber systems. More specifically I am interested in the development of aquatic diets for fish reared in aquaponics systems, the use of algal turf scrubbers to remove nutrients from aquaculture and natural systems, and the development of sustainable aquaculture/aquaponics feeds and production systems. Students in my lab have worked on nutritional, algal turf scrubber and aquaponics projects using sea urchins, striped bass, tilapia, blue gill, and hybrid striped bass. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy emphasizes the idea that learning should be an interactive andcollaborative process. I try to help students feel comfortable and encourage them too actively participate in the classroom as much as possible. I strive to make my classroom one that is learning centered in a tolerant environment. I have always believed that you must set high, but achievable, expectations for students and that it is important to treat students fairly, equitably, and with the respect they deserve. I am also committed to the idea of teaching science through research. I firmly believe that the undergraduate students who get an opportunity for research are far better equipped than their peers for the next stage in their careers. |
| M.S. - Mariculture - Texas A&M University | M.S. - Environmental Science - New Jersey Institute of Technology | B.S. - Marine Biology - Long Island University Southampton | Research Interests
| Algal Turf Scrubber Systems | Aquaponics | Nutrition | Sustainable Aquaponics Research Center | |||||
| wbaird@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=kDnveVEAAAAJ&hl=en&oi=ao | William | Baird | Professor of Physics | 912-344-2708 | SCIC 2014 | Armstrong Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biochemistry, Chemistry & Physics | Bill Baird is a Professor of Physics in the Department of Biochemistry, Chemistry and Physics. He received a B.A. in physics from Johns Hopkins University and a Ph.D. in physics from the University of South Carolina. | Teaching PhilosophyI think teaching is the most important function of this university. Conducting publishable research keeps faculty current in their field and is an opportunity to involve undergraduates in the academic process. |
| B.A., Johns Hopkins University | Research Interests
| Exploration of physics concepts in everyday life | |||||||||
| kstarks@georgiasouthern.edu | Katina | Starks-Parrish | Administrative Assistant II | 912-344-2549 | Ashmore Hall 102 | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Department of Clinical Science | Katina A. Starks-Parrish is an alum of Valdosta State University and is an Administrative Assistant II in the Department of Clinical Sciences on the Armstrong campus. | Teaching Philosophyn/a |
| B.S., DeVry University, 2004 | Research Interests
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| jcarroll@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/john-m-carroll-2 | John | Carroll | Professor | 912-478-4587 | Biology | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biology | As a researcher with broad interests in patterns and processes in marine systems, my research program focuses on widely applicable topics including seascape ecology, species interactions, and functional redundancy. My lab incorporates both field and laboratory methods aimed at bridging basic ecological theory and applied research questions in marine ecology. Research in my lab focuses on applying fundamental ecological concepts in a framework to inform management and restoration of marine resources by focusing on key species and interactions in coastal habitats, with a focus on restoration of shellfish populations. | Teaching PhilosophyI use a multi-pronged approach to student learning that combines enthusiasm for the subject and engagement with the materials. I thoughtfully incorporate high quality visual materials and frequently break lectures up with activities and questions designed to promote class discussions, creating an active learning environment. My strategies include “Learning by Teaching” by incorporating student-led discussions and presentations, as well as group work, and “Learning by Doing” by providing experiential opportunities and high impact practices including field trips, laboratory and in-class activities, and research projects that help reinforce lecture concepts and provides practical experiences and critical thinking skills. |
| 2004 BS in Marine Science - Southampton College of Long Island University | Research Interests
| Shellfish | Restoration | Coastal Habitats | James H. Oliver, Jr., Institute for Coastal Plain Science | ||||||
| mgreen@georgiasouthern.edu | Mikah | Green | Administrative Assistant II | 912-344-2970 | Ashmore Hall 107 | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Department of Clinical Science | Mikah Green is an Administrative Assistant II in the Department of Clinical Sciences | Teaching PhilosophyN/A |
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| chladik@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=3S9QBR0AAAAJ&hl=en and https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/cosm/sees/christine-hladik/ | Christine | Hladik | Associate Professor | 912-478-0338 | Natural Sciences 2201A | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | School of Earth, Environment & Sustainability | I am interested in applying geospatial data, including remote sensing, GIS, and GPS, to meet ecological and management goals. My research includes remote sensing of estuarine water quality and tidal wetland habitats. My M.S. thesis focused on using close-range remote sensing to predict chlorophyll concentrations in coastal waters, and my dissertation used LIDAR and hyperspectral imagery to map elevation and plant distributions in salt marshes. My research integrates multi-sensor imagery and field observations to improve the accuracy and interpretability of geospatial data to monitor environmental conditions and predict climate change impacts on coastal areas. | Teaching PhilosophyI teach the foundational concepts of geospatial science while fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. I emphasize the collaborative and interdisciplinary nature of science, essential for addressing large-scale environmental challenges. Remote sensing and geospatial technologies play a key role in tackling these issues. Through diverse instructional activities and my interdisciplinary research, I guide students in the scientific process, equipping them with the analytical tools to engage with the world, articulate ideas, and make informed conclusions. My goal is to share my passion for science and inspire students to ask questions and seek answers. |
| Master of Science Creighton University, Department of Atmospheric Science | Doctor of Philosophy University of Georgia, Department of Marine Sciences | Research Interests
| use of remote sensing to predict climate change impacts | use of multi-sensor data in ecological monitoring | LIDAR, hyperspecteral, satellite, aerial remote sensing | ||||||
| ptschida@georgiasouthern.edu | Paul | Tschida | Lecturer | 912-344-2731 | University Hall - 154P | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Department of Health Science & Kinesiology | Currently, I am a Lecturer for the Department of Health Sciences and Kinesiology. I have a background in athletic training / sports medicine. I enjoy teaching students and watching them learn and apply their insights to the world around them. | Teaching PhilosophyI focus on the three Cs: student centered, ensure competency, and instill confidence. |
| M.S. Sports Management (The Florida State University) | Research Interests
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| agrossmann@georgiasouthern.edu | Axel | Grossmann | Professor of Finance | 912-478-5512 | Parker College of Business 3323 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Finance | Dr. Axel Grossmann is the Freeman Chair of Free Enterprise and a Professor of Finance at the Parker College of Business. He earned his Ph.D. from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV), where he also completed his MBA. Additionally, he holds a Bachelor of Engineering from the University of Applied Sciences, Germany. His research has been published in several journals, including the Journal of Banking and Finance, the Journal of Corporate Finance, and the Journal of International Money and Finance. He has received multiple awards for his teaching and research and serves as the faculty advisor for the Finance Association and the Southern Investment Association. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy centers on igniting in each of my students a lasting interest in the field of finance while fostering critical thinking. My lectures aim not only to prepare students for successful careers but also to connect theoretical knowledge with real-world applications. To support this goal, I maintain relationships with potential employers and alumni to ensure that the topics covered are relevant to current industry demands and experiences. I employ a blended teaching methodology that combines passive and active learning. Ultimately, the future success of our students is our greatest asset, and my teaching philosophy is tailored to uphold and enhance this asset. |
| MBA, University of Texas-Pan American | Bachelor of Engineering, University of Applied Sciences, Giessen-Friedberg, Germany | Research Interests
| Corporate Finance | Investments and Asset Pricing | ||||||||
| cpadgett@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?hl=en&user=oAV2NCcAAAAJ&view_op=list_works&sortby=pubdate | Clifford | Padgett | Professor of Chemistry | 912-344-2719 | Armstrong Science Center Rm. 2005 | Armstrong Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biochemistry, Chemistry & Physics | Dr. Clifford Padgett's research focuses on X-ray crystallography, computational chemistry, and science education. He specializes in the synthesis of novel halogen-bonded complexes, using both computational methods and X-ray crystallography for their characterization. In addition to research, he is dedicated to science education, contributing to journals like The Physics Teacher and developing innovative teaching methods and lab experiments. He has authored numerous publications in journals such as Tetrahedron Letters, Crystal Growth & Design, Sensors, Acta Crystallographic, and the Journal of Coordination Chemistry. | Teaching Philosophy |
| Postdoctoral, Clemson University (2003) | Ph.D., Analytical Chemistry, Clemson University (2002) | M.S., Chemistry, Clemson University (1999) | B. S., Chemistry & Physics, Erskine College (1997) | Research Interests
| Materials – Physical properties of Nanomaterials, X-ray Crystallography, Halogen Bonding | ||||||
| bblackwell@georgiasouthern.edu | Brenda | Blackwell | Professor; Senior Associate Dean | 912-478-0202 | 2000 Veazey Hall | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Criminal Justice & Criminology | Dr. Brenda Blackwell joined Georgia Southern University in 2014 as chair and professor in the Department of Criminal Justice & Criminology. She transitioned to Associate Dean of Faculty Affairs & Research in the College of Behavioral & Social Sciences and was promoted to Senior Associate Dean in 2024. Her research focuses on gender differences in offending in criminal justice responses, publishing in journals such Criminology, Deviant Behavior, and the Journal of Criminal Justice. She also collaborated on projects funded by the National Institute of Justice and the Governor’s Office for Children and Families, examining responses to the commercial sexual exploitation of children. | Teaching PhilosophyDr. Blackwell is a dedicated instructor with a passion for active engagement and critical thinking in the classroom. She encourages students to approach their understanding of the justice system using theoretical and evidence-based approaches, stressing the need for active engagement with materials and critical thinking about controversial topics. She earned the Excellence in Teaching Award from the Andrew Young School of Policy Studies as a result of her approach to teaching and its impact on student learning and student outcomes. She has a number of publications exploring the impact of academic advisement on career outcomes and job satisfaction of criminal justice students and graduates. |
| M.A., Sociology, University of Oklahoma | B.S., Criminal Justice, Northern Arizona University | Research Interests
| Gender differences in justice system responses to offenders | Responses to victims of commercial sexual exploitation of childre | ||||||||
| hworst@georgiasouthern.edu | Haley | Worst | Dr. | 912-344-2732 | Armstrong Center | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Department of Clinical Science | Dr. Haley Worst has had twenty years of clinical experience in a variety of orthopedic and sports physical therapy settings. She is a Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Orthopedic Physical Therapy. Dr. Worst is an active member of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) Academy of Education, APTA Academy of Sports, and the APTA Academy of Orthopedic Physical Therapy. Dr. Worst has served on multiple committees and in leadership positions within the APTA at the state and national levels. She is currently an Associate Professor at Georgia Southern University in Savannah, GA and continues regular clinical practice. | Teaching PhilosophyI have been very fortunate to have wonderful teachers and mentors throughout my professional life. I try to take the lessons I have learned from them and apply those examples to the classroom. I attempt to create enthusiasm for the topics I teach in order to impart the same love for physical therapy that I possess to each of my students. My teaching philosophy consists of my desire to create independent critically thinking students, implementing high academic standards to maximize the professional potential of my students, and serving as an example of a clinician who strives for lifelong learning to encourage my students to become physical therapists with a thirst for knowledge. |
| Transitional-Doctor of Physical Therapy Degree from Northeastern University | Master of Science Degree in Physical Therapy from University of North Georgia | ABPTS Board Certified Clinical Specialist in Orthopedics | Research Interests
| Educational Methods | Physical Therapy Interventions | DPT Student Mental Health | ||||||
| ctcowart@georgiasouthern.edu | Cara | Cowart | Administrative Assistant II | 912-478-5216 | Parker College-3310 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Finance | GSU Alumni, Grad date Dec. 2005 | Teaching PhilosophyN/A |
| N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | Research Interests
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| jcromley@georgiasouthern.edu | https://works.bepress.com/jamie_cromley/ | Jamie | Cromley | Senior Lecturer | 912-478-2291 | Hendricks Hall 2002 | Statesboro Campus | Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health | Department of Health Policy & Community Health | Mrs. Cromley is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Health Policy and Community Health, JPHCOPH. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Masters of Public Health degree from the University of Georgia. Mrs. Cromley has been teaching for over ten years in the Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health. Having taught over 10 different undergraduate courses, she is known for her diverse teaching background. Her expertise is in instruction and she has a passion for teaching. Mrs. Cromley is currently the Undergraduate Internship Coordinator for JPHCOPH. Mrs. Cromley serves on a number of committees and boards at Georgia Southern as well as in the community. | Teaching PhilosophyMrs. Cromley's teaching philosophy centers on fostering an inclusive, student-centered learning environment where critical thinking and collaboration are encouraged. She creates a space where diverse perspectives are valued and students feel supported to engage deeply with the material. By using high impact teaching methods, service learning projects, internships and reflective activities, she connects theory to practice. Mrs. Cromley empowers students to become lifelong learners and leaders by equipping them with the skills to think critically, act ethically, and contribute positively to improve health outcomes in their communities. |
| Research Interests
| Nutrition | Maternal and Child Health | |||||||||
| sdechennepeters@georgiasouthern.edu | Sue Ellen | DeChenne-Peters | Associate Professor | 912-344-3086 | Science Center 1009 | Armstrong Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biology | I spent 10 years in molecular biology research before I found my love of teaching college biology. I have been teaching since 1997. I have taught Introductory to graduate courses in biology and science education. I have been conducting science education research since 2006 and that is the focus of my research group now. | Teaching PhilosophyI believe that all students can learn. My overarching learning objective is to develop students as line-long learners. I provide a learning environment that encourages the success of all students. I believe that the process of science is best taught by engaging in science. |
| M.S. in Genetics and Cell Biology Washington State University | B.S. in Microbiology Washington State Univeristy | Research Interests
| College Biology Teaching | College Biology Learning | ||||||||
| gshah@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?hl=en&user=hPFMckwAAAAJ&view_op=list_works&sortby=pubdate | Gulzar | Shah | Professor and Department Chair | 912-478-2419 | 209A Hendricks Hall | Armstrong Campus, Statesboro Campus | Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health | Department of Health Policy & Community Health | Dr. Gulzar Shah is the Department Chair and Professor of Health Policy and Community Health at Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health, Georgia Southern University. With over 25 years of experience in public health practice and academia, Dr. Shah has secured multimillion-dollar extramural grant funding and authored more than 176 peer-reviewed articles and 172 conference presentations. His expertise spans statistics, public health, demography, and sociology. Dr. Shah has led multiple national and international public health initiatives, including research on health disparities and barriers to healthcare access for marginalized populations. He serves as Editor or Associate Editor for several prominent public health journals. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy emphasizes a commitment to inclusive teaching and fostering student success through innovative pedagogical approaches. I believe in creating a student-centered, experiential learning environment that values diversity and interdisciplinary perspectives. By facilitating active participation and critical thinking, I aim to equip students with practical skills in public health research, policy, and practice. My goal is to prepare students as independent thinkers and collaborative professionals, while constantly adapting teaching methods to support their individual learning needs and professional development. |
| MSS-Statistics, Anthropology, Sociology | MStat, Statistics | BSc, Applied Mathematics and Statistics | Research Interests
| HIV Care and Prevention: Investigating factors affecting patient adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART), barriers to HIV care, and outcomes, particularly in low-resource settings. | Health Equity and Social Determinants of Health: Addressing health disparities by examining the roles of local health departments in promoting equity, particularly through public health interventions. | Public Health Workforce Development: Studying the capacity, training needs, and policy implications for the governmental public health workforce, including the impact of accreditation and performance metrics. | Public Health Systems and Services Research (PHSSR): Focusing on the infrastructure, workforce, accreditation, and financing of local and state health departments to optimize public health service delivery. | ||||
| nrickert@georgiasouthern.edu | Nicolette | Rickert | Assistant Professor | 912-478-7105 | Brannen Hall 1026 | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Psychology | Nicolette Rickert received her B.A. in Psychology from Willamette University and her M.S. and Ph.D. in Applied Psychology from Portland State University with a concentration in Developmental Science and Education and a minor in Quantitative Statistical Methodology. Her research is focused on how the complex social ecologies of youths’ school and family lives shape the development of their academic engagement and motivation. More specifically, she examines the collective, similar, and differential impacts of parent and teacher involvement, interpersonal relationships, and malleable self-theories on youths’ educational success. Her work also studies methodological strategies for capturing developmental pathways across social contexts. | Teaching PhilosophyDr. Rickert’s teaching interests cover lifespan human development, adolescent development, motivation and engagement, research methods and statistics, and advanced topics in developmental science and quantitative statistics. Her teaching style employs mastery grading and fostering a respectful and positive classroom climate with the goal of creating a life-long passion for learning in all students. She enjoys incorporating students’ interests, experience, and feedback to provide relevant, diverse content across learners and strives to overcome barriers to understanding research methods and statistics by making content approachable, applicable, and interesting. |
| M.S. Applied Psychology, Portland State University, 2016 | B.A. Psychology, Willamette University, 2013 | Research Interests
| Collective effects and complex social ecologies | Parent and teacher warm, supportive involvement | School transitions | Developmental science and education | ||||||
| erahilly@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=ZsS73HUAAAAJ&hl=en | Elizabeth | Rahilly | Assistant Professor of Sociology | 912-344-3527 | University Hall, #227 | Armstrong Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of Sociology & Anthropology | Elizabeth Rahilly is Assistant Professor of Sociology, with a joint appointment in the Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies program. She completed her Ph.D. in Sociology from U.C. Santa Barbara, and also holds an undergraduate degree in Anthropology from NYU, where her passion for the social sciences was first ignited. Her research and teaching interests concern gender, parenting, LGBT+ studies, political discourse, and qualitative methodology. Her work has been published in many journals, including Gender & Society, Sexuality & Culture, Journal of Family Studies, Discourse & Society, Sociological Inquiry, and LGBTQ+ Family. She also has a book with NYU Press, Trans-Affirmative Parenting: Raising Kids Across the Gender Spectrum. | Teaching PhilosophyThroughout my classes, I seek to spark students' "sociological imagination," where they become aware of the wider social forces that impact everyday lives and experiences. My teaching is reflective, student-centered, respectful of the diversity of students, multimodal, and focused on student learning outcomes. I also aim to advance students' skills in research, writing, and effective communication, with direct application to a wide array of career interests, including law, healthcare, social services, therapy, education, criminal justice, marketing and business, and more. |
| M.A., University of California, Santa Barbara | B.A., NYU | Research Interests
| Parenting | LGBT+ Studies | Qualitative research methods | Political discourse | Center for Women, Gender, & Sexuality Studies | ||||
| elo@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/cosm/sees/edward-lo/ | Edward | Lo | Assistant Professor of Geology | 912-478-4259 | Herty 1100B | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | School of Earth, Environment & Sustainability | Dr. Lo leads the Sedimentary Environments Analysis Laboratory (SEAL). He conducts fieldwork and lab analyses such as grain size, X-ray fluorescence, sand petrology, and clay mineralogy to understand how wetland and floodplains, particularly in the Global South, record and respond to global environmental change. Research projects strive to include Traditional Ecological Knowledge in a culturally sensitive way, and community engagement in study areas is key. Dr. Lo was raised in Cobb County, GA and speaks Portuguese, Spanish, and Mandarin. He was a McNair Scholar, Fulbright Fellow in Brazil, NSF Graduate Research Fellow, and Southern Regional Education Board Dissertation Fellow. Outside of work, he enjoys roller skating, kayaking, and biking. | Teaching PhilosophyDr. Lo teaches with emphasis on place-based education and inclusive pedagogy. His primary learning outcome is for students to understand how the earth sciences are essential to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and apply concepts with ample community collaboration. Students should be able to integrate foundational tools such as Adobe Illustrator into learning about modern sedimentation and stratigraphy. Students should also be able to describe how systems of oppression and individual thinking processes as geoscientists influence varying communities of people. In the field, safety encompasses both physical well-being and identity, so Dr. Lo prioritizes holistic safety while providing rigorous field training. |
| PhD, Geological Sciences, University of Kentucky, 2023 | Graduate Certificate in College Teaching and Learning, 2022 | MS, Geological Sciences, University of Kentucky, 2017 | BS, Geology, Louisiana State University, 2013 | Research Interests
| Sedimentary petrology | Quaternary geology | Limnogeology | Environmental justice | Institute for Water and Health | ||
| mguidone@georgiasouthern.edu | Michele | Guidone | Dr. | 912-344-3183 | SC 1005 | Armstrong Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biology | As a broadly trained ecologist, my research primarily explores how abiotic, biotic, and anthropogenic factors influence species interactions and overall community assemblages. Within this theme, research projects in my lab have largely focused on marine habitats utilizing macroalgae, marsh plants, and/or marine invertebrates as the study organisms. This research has encompassed a range of subjects including eutrophication and resultant macroalgal blooms, invasive species, epibiont fouling of marsh plants, parasite impacts on host behavior, and microplastic pollution. | Teaching PhilosophyAs a teacher-scholar, my teaching philosophy centers on fostering curiosity and critical thinking in my students. I believe that biology is not just a collection of facts but a dynamic field that connects life processes to real-world issues. I utilize diverse teaching methods to accommodate various learning styles and aim to increase student engagement through active learning opportunities in lecture and incorporating guided inquiry and course based undergraduate research experiences in lab. By encouraging discussions and teamwork, I help students develop essential communication and problem-solving skills. My goal is to equip students with the knowledge needed to tackle global challenges in health, ecology, and sustainability. |
| M.S. Southern Connecticut State University | Ph.D. University of Rhode Island | Research Interests
| Algae | Marsh Plants | Trophic Relationships | |||||||
| rpiltner@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/reinhard-e-piltner-2 | Reinhard | Piltner | Associate Professor | 912-478-0368 | MP 3038 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Mathematical Sciences | Reinhard E. Piltner is an Associate Professor in the Department of Mathematical Science at Georgia Southern University. He joined Georgia Southern in 2004.During the academic year 2012/2013 he was a Visiting Professor at the Friedrich-Alexander University in Erlangen, Germany. Reinhard had research experiences at the following departments: Institute for Mechanics, Ruhr-University Bochum, Germany; Dept. of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, USA; Dept. of Engineering Mechanics, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, USA; Pattern Recognition Lab, Dept. of Computer Science, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuernberg, Germany; Dept. of Mathematical Sciences, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, USA. | Teaching PhilosophyMy primary interest in teaching classes at the university is to help the students learn and to pass on some of the positive learning experiences I had during my own student years. In order to achieve the aim of leading the students to learning successes, it is important to challenge the students’ thinking. It is not enough to just present material to the students in the classroom. In addition to learning the fundamental content of a course, it is important that students get a grasp on a variety of methods to solve problems. |
| Research Interests
| Finite Element Methods | Boundary Element Methods | Computational Mechanics | Medical Imaging | |||||||
| aluna@georgiasouthern.edu | N/A - I don't engage in research nor do I want a page like this | Amy | Luna | Director, Psychology Clinic | 912-478-1685 | 1002A Psychology Clinic | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Psychology | Dr. Amy Luna earned her Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from Oklahoma State University and has been licensed to practice psychology in Georgia for over a decade. She serves as the Director of the Psychology Clinic and enjoys training the next generation of psychologists. Dr. Luna was trained as a generalist and has worked in inpatient and outpatient settings. She most enjoys working alongside older adults and those who experience severe and persistent mental health difficulties, including borderline personality disorder. Dr. Luna has specialized training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy and is proud to be a Star Behavioral Health Provider for military members and their families. | Teaching PhilosophyI do not teach. |
| B.S. in Psychology, Drury University | Research Interests
| Psychology Clinic | |||||||||
| mvanwilligen@georgiasouthern.edu | https://georgiasouthern.academia.edu/MariekeVanWilligen | Marieke | Van Willigen | Dr. | 912-478-5426 | 1019 Carroll | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Sociology & Anthropology | Dr. Van Willigen's research focuses on the impact of social inequality on physical and mental health. Most recently she has worked on studying the experiences of college students with varying modes of instruction and pedagogical techniques. She has also worked on differential impacts of natural disasters. | Teaching PhilosophyDr. Van Willigen teaches courses in Global Sociology, Social Statistics, and Medical Sociology. She teaches both face-to-face and online courses. All of her courses include a variety of different types of assessment strategies to allow students to express their knowledge in a variety of ways. She also strives to create engaged classroom environments. Her office hours are held both face-to-face and online to provide opportuities for all students to have one-on-one conversation. |
| MA Sociology The Ohio State University | BA Sociology Ithaca College | Research Interests
| Gender | Higher Education | LGBTQ+ community | ||||||
| gdcarroll@georgiasouthern.edu | Denise | Carroll | Principal Lecturer | 912-478-5807 | Bio Sci 1170 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biology | I am a dedicated educator and researcher focused on STEM education strategies, student assessment, and the environmental impacts of human activities on aquatic ecosystems. With over a decade of teaching experience in biology and environmental science, I have contributed to understanding aquatic community dynamics and secured significant educational grants, including NSF funding for STEM teacher preparation. Recently, I’ve focused on enhancing student engagement and fostering belonging in learning environments. I have co-authored posters and presentations on problem-based learning, recruiting future STEM educators, and AI integration in student engagement. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy is rooted in a deep passion for learning and the belief that education should empower students to achieve their goals. I focus on active learning techniques, encouraging students to engage in problem-solving, collaboration, and independent thinking. I emphasize practical skills over rote memorization, aiming to equip students with tools for personal growth and future success. My teaching approach includes Team-Based Learning, metacognitive strategies, and Supplemental Instruction to accommodate diverse learning styles. I prioritize building confidence, critical thinking, and lifelong learning, fostering collaborative environments where students support one another. |
| M.S. in Forestry from Mississippi State University | B.S. in Biology from Augusta State University (Concentration in Fisheries Science) | Research Interests
| Student Engagement | Assessment of Student Learning | Effects anthropogenic activities on aquatic communities. | |||||||
| jsoo@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/jhy-charm-soo-2 | Jhy-Charm | Soo | Assistant Professor | 912-478-2292 | Hendricks Hall 2035 | Statesboro Campus | Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health | Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology & Environmental Health Sciences | I am an assistant professor at Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Environmental Health Sciences, Jiann-Ping Hsu College Public Health (JPHCOPH), Georgia Southern University. Prior to joining the JPHCOPH at Georgia Southern University, I held an industrial hygienist position in the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). During my research career of over 8 years at NIOSH, I have carried out extensive research on the performance evaluation of particle size-selective sampling, direct-reading instrument for VOCs identification, and barrier performance of personal protective equipment (PPE). | Teaching PhilosophyI always believe students need to build up a solid foundation in the discipline they are pursuing. On the other hand, to keep the students interested and passionate in the environmental health science profession without losing their original enthusiasm during the learning process, I believe adopting the flipped classroom approach, hands-on experience, operation demonstration, field trips, special discussion, and guest speakers to make my course and my teaching more interesting, diverse, and practical. |
| B.S. in Department of Occupational Safety and Health, Chang-Jung Christian University, Tainan, Taiwan | Research Interests
| Aerosol and Gas Sampling and Analytical Method Evalution | Personal Protective Technology | ||||||||
| wtu@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/wei-tu-2 | Wei | Tu | Professor of Geography | 912-478-5233 | 2100 E Herty | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | School of Earth, Environment & Sustainability | Dr. Tu teaches primarily Geographic Information Science courses at both undergraduate and graduate levels. His recent research centers on the social determinants of health using various statistical models. Dr. Tu has authored or co-authored over 50 peer-reviewed publications and was the mapping supervisor for the Metro Atlanta Equity Atlas project in 2012. He was a Governor’s Teaching Fellow for the University System of Georgia in 2019, received Education Excellence Award from the International Association of Chinese Professionals in Geographic Information Sciences in 2021, and was a Social Determinants of Health & Place Fellow at the Healthy Regions & Policies Lab at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 2024. | Teaching PhilosophyI believe teachers should empower students to become life-long learners, creative thinkers, passionate practitioners, and effective communicators. Education is a lifelong journey, measured by students' ability to learn independently and use their talents for the greater social good. Teachers must foster critical thinking, encouraging students to see the world from diverse perspectives. I advocate for maps as vital tools for understanding global issues and developing spatial thinking skills. I value experiential learning. As the Chinese proverb says, 'It is better to travel ten thousand miles than to read ten thousand books,' highlighting the importance of real-world experience over theoretical knowledge. |
| M.S. in Geography, East China Normal University | B.S. in Geography, East China Normal University | Research Interests
| Health Geography | Institute for Health Logistics & Analytics | |||||||
| hwbland@georgiasouthern.edu | Helen | Bland | Professor of Public Health | 912-478-5137 | Hendricks Hall 1024 | Statesboro Campus | Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health | Department of Health Policy & Community Health | My academic training is a B.S. & M.S. in Food & Nutrition Science, and a PhD in Community Health Education from SIUC. Courses taught include Research Methods courses, Intro to Global Health, Maternal and Child Health, and Aging. Areas of research Include Maternal & Child Health, Physical Activity, and Stress. My research publications align with these interests (50+ peer reviewed articles, 150+ peer-reviewed presentations, 2 books, 25 grants). My service focuses on international public health with annual trips to Dominican Republic to serve as a Medical Translator. I also work with Emory University PA & Medical School as a medical translator 2x/year with mobile medical trips to southwest Georgia to serve farmworkers. | Teaching PhilosophyMy philosophy of teaching is rather simplistic: learn through doing and facilitate students' quest for acquisition on knowledge. I set high standards for students and strive to create a classroom atmosphere of cognitive dissonance. By combining these two attributes, I hope to foster in students a desire for learning. |
| M.S., Southern Illinois University at Carbondale, 1984 | B.S., Southern Illinois University at Carbondale, 1983 | Research Interests
| Stress Among Young Adults | Physical Fitness | Nutrition/ Obesity | |||||||
| apeden@georgiasouthern.edu | Angie | Peden | Associate Director, Center for Public Health Practice and Research and Senior Lecturer | 912-478-2581 | Hendricks Hall 1020 | Statesboro Campus | Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health | Department of Health Policy & Community Health | Angie Peden, MPH, is the Associate Director of the Center for Public Health Practice and Research at the Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health (JPHCOPH) at Georgia Southern University. Ms. Peden focuses on connecting JPHCOPH with the Georgia public health and rural healthcare practice community and facilitating practice-based research and technical assistance through grants and service contracts. Over the past thirteen years, she has worked with the Center to bring in over 6 million dollars in grant and contract funding. She excels at project and budget management, communications, and internal and external report development. | Teaching PhilosophyMy goal as a public health educator is to create an engaging, thought-provocting, and responsive learning environment. I prioritize connecting students with the local and national public health and rural health practice communities as well seeking out opportunities for students to engage and interact with professionals in these communities. |
| BS, James Madison University | Research Interests
| Rural Health Systems | Center for Public Health Practice and Research | |||||||||
| awinskie@georgiasouthern.edu | amy | winskie | lecturer of mathematics | 912-478-5202 | MP3039 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Mathematical Sciences | n/a | Teaching Philosophyn/a |
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| mkrahman@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/cosm/sees/munshi-rahman/ | Munshi | Rahman | Assistant Professor | 912-478-6029 | Herty 2113 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | School of Earth, Environment & Sustainability | My undergraduate and graduate education was in Geography & and Environment. Later I completed another Masters degree in Geography, and lastly I did my PhD in geography at Kent State University. After my PhD graduation I worked several places as a Postdoc and Instructor. Over the years I have taught several of courses both in Geography, Environmental Studies, and the Geospatial Science and Technologies to students from diverse backgrounds. | Teaching PhilosophyI am a broadly trained geographer with a strong educational background and appreciation for all facets of geography, people, and the environment. I believe that combination of my educational background, teaching and research experience, and integration of my research with teaching enables me to make my courses relevant to the diverse student groups. Being able to utilize modern tools and technology such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, and Global Positioning System (GPS), unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) for geospatial analysis and Geovisualization of our world help me to presenting geography matters and societal issues in a better way. I love connecting real-world societal problems to my teaching and learning. |
| M.A. and MS in Geography | BSc in Geography & Environment | Research Interests
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| kmau@georgiasouthern.edu | Kari | Mau | Associate Professor & Graduate Program Director | 912-344-2852 | Ashmore Hall, Rm. 265 | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | School of Nursing | I am a doctorally prepared nurse practitioner, educator, and lifelong learner. I continue to practice clinically at the Chatham County Health Department and teach in both undergradaute and graduate nursing programs. My clinical expertise is women's healthcare. | Teaching PhilosophyI embrace my responsibility to kindle lifelong learning in nursing students. I commit to excellence in teaching, scholarship, clinical practice, and servant leadership. I ascribe to pluralistic foundations rooted in nursing theories and educational philosophies. As a scholar, I embrace and engage in inquiry-based and theory-based research. As a clinician, I approach clinical practice with a constant pursuit of excellence and expect a similar commitment in my students. I serve others through listening, encouraging, collaborating, and building personal relationships with students, other nurses, and other healthcare providers. |
| Master's of Nursing, Arizona State University, 2002 | BSN, Purdue University, 1996 | Research Interests
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| mel@georgiasouthern.edu | Melissa | Garno | Professor of Nursing | 912-478-1781 | Nursing Building Room 4021 | Statesboro Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | School of Nursing | Dr. Garno joined Georgia Southern University in 1998 as a faculty member in the School of Nursing. Dr. Garno earned an EdD in Curriculum Studies from Georgia Southern University in 2003. She assumed the role of BSN Program Director in 2010. From 2012-2014 she also served as a Program Assessment Leader with the Office of Institutional Effectiveness while maintaining her faculty and administrative roles. Dr. Garno's administrative leadership in the School of Nursing turned full-time as Associate Chair from 2018-2020, and direct appointment as Chair from 2020-2024. In 2024 she returned to her calling in a full-time teaching role as Professor in the School of Nursing. | Teaching PhilosophyI approach my role as an educator as one of collaboration and mentoring. My teaching philosophy reflects my fundamental beliefs in humanism. I believe teachers and students are collaborators in educational endeavors, which means I must allow for self-discovery in the educational process. I am responsible for designing experiences geared toward achievement of anticipated outcomes, but I am simultaneously a co-learner with my students regarding what will be discovered along the way. |
| MSN, Mental Health Nursing and Nursing Education | BSN | Research Interests
| Mental Health Nursing | |||||||||
| jzettler@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=IHsjBPkAAAAJ&hl=en | Jennifer | Zettler | Professor | 912-344-2714 | Science Center, room 1019 | Armstrong Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biology | Jennifer Zettler’s interest in teaching biology began when she was an undergraduate student at the University of Florida. There, she had the opportunity to teach a laboratory section for a non-majors Six-Legged Science course and the “bug” to continue teaching persisted. She moved to South Carolina where she was a graduate teaching assistant while pursuing degrees in Entomology (M.S.) and Zoology (Ph. D) from Clemson University. She is now a Professor of Biology at the Armstrong Campus in Savannah where she has been a faculty member since 2002. With her interests in entomology, field biology, ecology and conservation, Dr. Zettler teaches courses with field experiences that allow students to explore Savannah’s diverse coastal ecosystems. | Teaching PhilosophyI believe that students should think beyond definitions and formulas and grasp the subject by asking questions. By incorporating hands-on activities and field experiences, students in my courses are encouraged to make firsthand observations which naturally generate inquisitive questions. Enthusiasm is contagious and I strive to ignite a passion for biology through interactive discussions and collective sharing of scientific discovery. |
| M.S., Clemson University, 1996 | B.S., University of Florida, 1994 | Research Interests
| Ecological effect of invasive insects | Millipede-symbiont interactions | Insect-symbiont interactions | James H. Oliver, Jr., Institute for Coastal Plain Science | |||||
| bethmcgee@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=NEGtojQAAAAJ&hl=en | Beth | McGee | Associate Professor of Interior Design | 912-478-0477 | IAB 3061 | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | School of Human Ecology | Beth McGee is an Associate Professor at Georgia Southern University in the School of Human Ecology. She has passed the NCIDQ exam and is a LEED AP. Her focus areas in teaching, scholarship and service are through service-learning and biophilic design (nature-inspired). She follows a mission to do good through design by working with stakeholders for optimal outcomes including greater place attachment and restorative environmental design. | Teaching PhilosophyOur lives as designers of the built environment become a tapestry of places, people and events where interior design is a people centered endeavor. This is where we weave together global-minded design decisions with health, safety and welfare. Since the interior is where many of us spend the majority of our lives, we merge the work of interior decorating, product design, graphic design and architecture and so have the unique ability of benefiting or harming people. The built environment becomes part of who we are as a culture and who we are as individuals through lived experiences inside. Design decisions thus need to be based in a fundamental knowledge of business practices and understanding people, place, and the planet. |
| M.S. in Interior Architecture, University of North Carolina-Greensboro | B.F.A in Interior Design, Kendall College of Art and Design | A.A. Muskegon Community College | Research Interests
| Community-engaged design | Trauma-informed design | Environmental Psychology | Service-learning | Institute for Vibrant and Engaged Communities, Institute for Health Logistics & Analytics | |||
| tboyer@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/ty-w-boyer-2 | Ty | Boyer | Professor | 912-478-5122 | Brannen Hall, Room 1024 | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Psychology | Ty W. Boyer, Ph.D., is a Professor and Department Chair in the Georgia Southern University Department of Psychology. Dr. Boyer earned a B.S. from Arizona State University and an M.A. and Ph.D. from the University of Maryland, and then spent time as a Postdoctoral Fellow in the University of Chicago Department of Psychology and as a Research Associate in the Indiana University Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences. Dr. Boyer studies cognitive and perceptual development, and, more specifically, how we perceive and represent number, probability, space, and actions, reason and make decisions, and how these processes are attributable to early-emerging biases, learning, and maturation. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy coincides with one of my guiding research themes, namely, cognitive development. Minimally, I hope students leave my classes and research training with a set of concepts that they did not possess prior, which, of course, is a form of development in and of itself. My overarching goal, however, is that what I teach changes how students interact with the world and interpret information they encounter in their daily lives, with particular emphasis on critical thinking, information literacy, and evidence-based decision-making. |
| Postdoctoral Fellow, Psychology, University of Chicago | Ph.D., Psychology, University of Maryland | M.A., Psychology, University of Maryland | B.S., Psychology, Arizona State University | Research Interests
| Perceptual Developmental Psychology | Numerical and Spatial Cognition | Action Perception and Representation | Eye-tracking Research | |||
| cdrodriguez@georgiasouthern.edu | Christopher | Rodriguez | Assistant Professor | 912-344-3257 | Ashmore Hall 259 | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | School of Nursing | Dr. Rodriguez received his Associate of Arts (AA) and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Armstrong State University. He then received his Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a concentration as a nurse educator and his Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) from Georgia College & State University. His clinical nursing practice includes Emergency and Forensic specialties. He holds his national board certification as a Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN). He is currently teaching in the undergraduate program for the School of Nursing. | Teaching PhilosophyTeaching nursing students requires the instructor to engage students in both the classroom and clinical settings. Socratic questioning is an excellent method for students to achieve higher levels of cognitive learning. This allows students to express their knowledge while connecting content with patient care. Using this teaching strategy helps instructors evaluate students' clinical reasoning skills. Another helpful teaching modality is simulation. This modality provides students with real-life applications of knowledge. The use of simulation can be done in the classroom or clinical setting. Combining these strategies engages learning and helps foster active learning practices. |
| Master of Science in Nursing, Nurse Educator | Bachelor of Science in Nursing | Associate of Arts | Research Interests
| Professionalism / Incivility | ||||||||
| cposick@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/cbss/justice/faculty-staff/chad-posick/ | Chad | Posick | Professor | 912-478-7098 | Carroll Building 2218 | Statesboro Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of Criminal Justice & Criminology | Chad Posick is a Professor in the Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology at Georgia Southern University. He is also co-director of the National Youth Advocacy and Resilience Research Center. His research interests include victimization, biopsychosocial perspectives on behavior, and statistical methodology. He teaches in the areas of victimology, family violence, and statistics. He serves on the board of directors of Child Advocacy Services of Southeastern Georgia. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching approach connects academic work to public policy and practice. Students engage in lively and open debate where all students are encouraged to share their unique views on important criminological topics. My classes are centered on examining rigorous social scientific research, learning practical analytic techniques, and partaking in unique experiences such as classes that take place inside prison. |
| Master of Science in Science, Technology, and Public Policy Rochester Institute of Technology, Department of Science, Technology, and Public Policy | Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Rochester Institute of Technology, Department of Criminal Justice | Research Interests
| Quantitative Analysis | Public Policy | Biopsychosocial Perspectives | ||||||
| ryarbrough@georgiasouthern.edu | Robert A. | Yarbrough | Associate Professor of Geography | 912-478-0846 | Herty 1113B | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | School of Earth, Environment & Sustainability | Dr. Yarbrough's research areas include critical cultural geographies, nature-society geographies, and community geography. He has published research on immigrant residential settlement geographies in the U.S. South, and how racialization has affected these newcomers. More recently, he has examined the emergence and impact of ecotourism in northwest Ecuador and is the co-author with Dr. Mark Welford (University of Northern Iowa) of Human-Environment Interactions: An Introduction. (2021): Palgrave MacMillan. He has co-led study abroad trips to Ecuador and India and is teaching at Georgia Southern's Wexford, Ireland campus during summer 2024 and summer 2025. | Teaching PhilosophyDr. Yarbrough has taught courses ranging from large undergraduate general education/core courses (e.g., World Regional Geography) to a graduate level Seminar in Geographic Thought. In all of his courses, Dr. Yarbrough strives to create a welcoming, open, and respectful classroom environment, wherein he encourages student participation through a variety of active learning approaches. He has participated in numerous workshops focused on diverse, equitable, and inclusive teaching practices and is committed to incorporating these pedagogical approaches in his teaching. |
| MA Geography, University of Georgia | Graduate Certificate Women's Studies, University of Georgia | BA History, Roanoke College | Research Interests
| Nature-Society Geographies | Community Geography | Center for Women, Gender, & Sexuality Studies | ||||||
| jdechantal@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.juliedechantal.com | Julie | de Chantal | Associate Professor of History and Public History Coordinator | 912-478-4478 | IAB 3012 | Statesboro Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of History | Dr. Julie de Chantal is an Associate Professor of History and Public History Coordinator. She teaches African American History. Dr. de Chantal’s research interest include community activism, transnational activism, and Black women’s history, especially in the North. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy centers on fostering an inclusive and engaging learning environment where students are encouraged to think critically and apply their knowledge to real-world challenges. I believe in the power of active learning and strive to create a classroom atmosphere that promotes collaboration, curiosity, and continuous growth. |
| MA History - Université de Montréal - 2008 | BA History - Université de Montréal - 2005 | Research Interests
| Women's History | Boston | Grassroots Activism | Public History | |||||
| jkies@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/joshua-kies | Joshua | Kies | RN-BSN Program Director & Assistant Professor | 912-478-5770 | 521 C.O.E. Drive / Nursing & Chemistry Building / Office 2002H Statesboro, GA 30458 | Statesboro Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | School of Nursing | Joshua M. Kies is a three-time graduate of Georgia Southern University and is the RN-BSN Program Director and Assistant Professor within the School of Nursing. Dr. Kies teaches both undergraduate and graduate courses in the School of Nursing on both the Armstrong and Statesboro campuses and also online. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy focuses on promoting individual student success through inclusive learning opportunities, consistent support, and application of knowledge using critical thinking. Active learning and open communication fosters an environment of personal and professional growth, the ability to overcome barriers, and bolster self-confidence. |
| Master's of Science in Nursing (FNP), Georgia Southern University | Bachelor's of Science in Nursing, Georgia Southern University | Research Interests
| Public Health | Student Success | |||||||
| cbrady@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/caitlin-brady-2 | Caitlin | Brady | Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice & Criminology | 912-478-8036 | Carroll 1095 | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Criminal Justice & Criminology | Dr. Caitlin M. Brady is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology at Georgia Southern University. She received her Ph.D. in Criminal Justice from the University of Central Florida in 2020, her M.A. in Forensic Psychology from John Jay College of Criminal Justice, and a B.S. in Psychology from the University of Mary Washington. Her research interests focus on juvenile justice, justice system responses to youth, use of juvenile risk assessment instruments, and mental health among justice-involved individuals. Her research has been accepted for publication in journals such as Youth Violence and Juvenile Justice, Journal of Criminal Justice, and American Journal of Criminal Justice. | Teaching PhilosophyDr. Brady typically teaches undergraduate and graduate classes on juvenile justice, mental health and criminal justice, and criminology. The undergraduate mental health course has been designated a high impact practices (HIPs) class at Georgia Southern University. Dr. Brady's teaching philosophy focuses on student success and creating an engaging/supportive environment. Students are encouraged to critically consider, discuss, and apply course content. |
| M.A., John Jay College of Criminal Justice, 2015 | B.S., University of Mary Washington, 2012 | Research Interests
| Justice System Responses to Youth | Use of Juvenile Risk Assessments | Mental Health Among Justice-Involved Youth | National Youth Advocacy and Resilience Research Center | |||||
| sguggino@georgiasouthern.edu | Steve | Guggino | Associate Professor of Geology | Herty Room 1104B | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | School of Earth, Environment & Sustainability | I'm originally from Tampa, FL, where I earned my BS and MS geology degrees from the University of South Florida (2001, 2004). I moved to Arizona where I worked for an environmental consulting firm for about a year. My heart was in academia, so in 2005 I quit consulting and began teaching geology courses at the community colleges within the Phoenix area. In 2006, I enrolled at Arizona State University and earned my PhD in geology in 2012. I continued to teach at the Phoenix-area community colleges until 2015, when I moved to Statesboro to teach geoscience courses at Georgia Southern. Overall, I have been teaching geology for nearly 20 years. My expertise is in stable-isotope geochemistry, invertebrate paleontology, and igneous petrology. | Teaching PhilosophyI believe in offering students a comprehensive, rigorous, well-rounded, and well-structured learning experience facilitated by an enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and well-organized professor. My job as an instructor is never static as I work to assist students achieve their goals. I am continuously reevaluating my instruction to make any necessary improvements to my curricula. I am a student of my own craft, and I constantly endeavor to discover and learn new methods, products, and strategies that enhance the learning experiences successes of my students. |
| MS Geology: University of South Florida (2004) | BS Geology: University of South Florida (2001) | Research Interests
| Geochemistry of mantle and volcanic rocks | ||||||||||
| cmakant@georgiasouthern.edu | Candace | Makant | Lecturer | 912-478-2544 | Nursing/Chemistry Building Room 3020 | Statesboro Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | School of Nursing | I am a registered nurse with expertise in mental health and medical surgical nursing. I have experience in teaching in the clinical setting, didactic, and simulation. | Teaching PhilosophyTeachers should continue to evaluate their teaching philosophy to meet the current needs to their students. Currently, I believe that teaching should include interactive technology and collaborative methods to reach the needs of our students. I also think that timely feedback is important to meeting the students' needs. |
| Bachelor's in Science of Nursing | Research Interests
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| aharvey@georgiasouthern.edu | Alan | Harvey | Professor | 912-532-5784 | BSCI 2262 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biology | I have taught in the Department of Biology at the Statesboro campus for 26 years. I've taught over 20 different classes at Georgia Southern, with subjects ranging from field-based ecology to computer programs for graduate students.My research interests span ecology, evolution, and behavior. I have studied a broad range of organisms ranging from paramecium to duckweed to hermit crabs. I have a special weakness for oddball organisms like lichens and peculiar behaviors like wheel locomotion.Outside of work I enjoy nature and the outdoors, ceramics and photography, and cooking. I often explore the interface between art and science; e.g., I have produced a number of short, biology-themed films, and I make paper from invasive plants. | Teaching PhilosophyThe most consistent aspect of my teaching philosophy, whether in lecture, lab, or studio courses, is that the most effective way for students to master a subject is through hands-on experiences. In addition, if at all possible I try to increase the relevance of the information they learn by including a real world component, an opportunity to make a contribution that will persist long after the class itself has ended. |
| Doctor of Philosophy (Ecology and Evolutionary Biology); University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona (1988) | Research Interests
| Potential, and limitations, of citizen science as a research tool | Intersection of science and art | Ecology and behavior of larval tiger beetles | James H. Oliver, Jr., Institute for Coastal Plain Science, Institute for Health Logistics & Analytics | |||||||
| jmlewis@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?hl=en&user=H43IX60AAAAJ | Johanne | Lewis | Associate Professor Comparative Animal Physiology | 912-478-5480 | Biological Sciences 2238 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biology | As comparative animal physiologist, Dr. Lewis’s research uses research uses an integrative approach to study how various mechanisms and adaptations allow animals to cope with environmental challenges such as fluctuations in temperature, oxygen, and salinity. | Teaching PhilosophyAs a teacher-scholar my goal is to foster a creative, engaging, and inclusive learning environment. I strive to design and teach courses deliver content in unique ways that not only provide students with a solid foundation in physiological concepts but also facilitate the development of skills that are transferable to their future academic and non-academic careers. I regularly teach Physiology (BIOL 3131), Comparative Animal Physiology (BIOL 5230), Physiological Ecology (BIOL 5237), and Endocrinology (BIOL 5247) as well as mentor students in independent research experiences. |
| M.Sc., Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador, 2002 | B.Sc., University of Guelph, 1999 | Research Interests
| Environmental Stress | Bioenergetics | Cardiorespiratory Physiology | ||||||
| yongkilee@georgiasouthern.edu | https://sites.google.com/site/yongkimath/ | Yongki | Lee | Associate Professor of Mathematics | 912-478-5802 | Math/Physics 3310 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Mathematical Sciences | Dr. Yongki Lee is an applied mathematician specializing in partial differential equations and various applicable models, such as fluid dynamics and traffic flow. | Teaching PhilosophyTeaching is one of my favorite aspects of my job. Including my previous teaching experience in Korea, I have over 20 years of experience teaching mathematics. I constantly strive to be a more effective instructor and pay careful attention to student feedback. |
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| astokolos@georgiasouthern.edu | Alex | Stokolos | Professor | 912-478-5298 | MP 3326 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Mathematical Sciences | Alex Stokolos grew up in Odessa Ukraine. Majoring in mathematics and math education, he received his undergraduate degree at Odessa Mechnikov National University (OMNU). He received a Candidate of Science in Mathematics degree from Moscow Institute of Electronics and Mathematics. He received his Doctor Habilitated dergee from the University of Worclaw. After a two year postdoctoral fellowship at University of Connecticut and 6 years at DePaul University, he joined Georgia Southern in the fall of 2009. Currently he is a Full Professor at the Department of Mathematical Sciences GSU. | Teaching PhilosophyDr. Stokolos has a diverse portfolio of courses taught in several schools globwise, including Odessa Mechnikov National University (Ukraine), University of Wroclaw (Poland), Lousiana State University, University of Connecticut, DePaul University |
| Moscow Institute of Electronics and Mathematics, Moscow, Russia. Candidate of Science in Mathematics, 1984. | University of Worclaw, Wroclaw, Poland. Doctor Habilitated, 1998. | Research Interests
| Approximation Theory | Dynamical Systems | ||||||||
| coverholser@georgiasouthern.edu | Candice | Overholser | Assistant Professor of Nursing | 912-344-3381 | AH 243 | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | School of Nursing | Candice Overholser is an alum of University of West Georgia and is an Assistant Professor of Nursing in the Waters College of Health Professions. Dr. Overholser teaching in the School of Nursing on the Armstrong campus. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy focuses on student success and creation of a learning environment to develop the skills required for life-long learning. Nursing is a profession of continuing education with opportunities to work in multiple environments with varying specialties. I believe active classroom learning supports student success and life-long learning by challenging students to use clinical judgment and critical thinking to address real-world issues in a safe environment. |
| MSN, Georgia Southwestern State University | Ed.D., University of West Georgia | Research Interests
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| cndaluka@georgiasouthern.edu | Christina | Ndaluka | Senior Lecturer | 912-478-3351 | Natural Science | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biology | I am a Senior Lecturer for the Department of Biology. I teach the Foundations of Microbiology which is a service course for Pre-Health students. My class is required for the Nursing program, so I have a lot of motivated students. | Teaching PhilosophyI consider myself a lifelong learner. I also understand that everyone learns differently, so when you combine the two you end up with a flexible teacher who meets students where they need to be met. I then take them with me when we go deeper into the material. |
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| mhubbard@georgiasouthern.edu | Mandy | Hubbard | Assistant Professor | 912-559-2710 | Armstrong | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | School of Nursing | Mandy graduated from Georgia Southern University in 2004 with a BSN degree and then in 2008 she received her MSN as a Family Nurse Practitioner and begun working as a nurse practitioner. She began caring for those with mental health disorders in 2016 and then furthered her education in 2018 by becoming dual certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and then completed her education with a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree in 2020. Mandy started in academia in 2020 as a lecturer of nursing and then an assistant professor starting in 2021. She teaches in the graduate and undergraduate level courses in mental health, pediatrics, and the APRN courses. | Teaching PhilosophyMy philosophy of teaching is to create an open environment for learning. One of my goals is to provide a learning environment that allows students to explore their own strengths and weaknesses in ways that are comfortable to them and that will enhance their learning. The best way to accomplish these goals is to provide learning environments that are conducive to different types of students. I believe that learner-oriented teaching promotes learning that is both purposeful and enduring. By conducting learning that accommodates every student, I can create learning goals that helps build connections between what the student already knows and the new understandings they seek to learn. |
| MSN | BSN | Research Interests
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| acorradi@georgiasouthern.edu | Andrea | Corradi | Assistant Professor | 912-478-8542 | 1096 Carroll | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Criminal Justice & Criminology | Originally from Canada, Andrea Corradi received her doctorate in Criminology from Pennsylvania State University in 2022, and a graduate certificate in International Security Studies from the School of International Affairs. Her research interests focus on extremism and terrorism, gender, security, criminal justice outcomes, health, and incarceration. She has published in outlets including Justice Quarterly, Crime & Delinquency, Journal of Criminal Justice, Social Networks, and Security Journal. She also has an interest in the criminal justice system and health. She is currently a co-investigator on a four-year NIDDK funded project examining the role of structural racism and kidney disease. | Teaching PhilosophyMy pedagogical approach prioritizes the learning objectives of synthesizing key information, acquiring skills to evaluate arguments and discourse, presenting persuasive arguments, and gaining confidence to discuss sensitive issues. To achieve these objectives, I design my courses to incorporate experiential learning initiatives and frequent discussion and strive to replicate these experiences both in-person and online. To assess students’ learning, I incorporate a variety of methods that is both inclusive of a variety of student needs but are also grounded in skills they will need to use outside of the classroom. |
| Graduate Certificate in International Security Studies, Pennsylvania State University | Masters of Arts in Criminology, Wilfrid Laurier University | Honours Bachelors of Arts in Criminology, Wilfrid Laurier University | Research Interests
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| sgreiman@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=c37xhpYAAAAJ&hl=en | Stephen | Greiman | Associate Professor | 912-478-1251 | Bioscience RM3362 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biology | Research in my lab is focused on global parasite diversity, with a focus on parasitic flatworms. My lab employs a variety of techniques and methods for answering research related questions, including: classical parasitological techniques (field collecting, proper fixation, staining, slide mounting, and light microscopy); electron and confocal microscopy; real-time PCR; sanger single gene sequencing; next generation metagenomic and whole genome sequencing. | Teaching PhilosophyI employ both traditional and modern teaching techniques to increase overall retention of the material. My courses include real-world examples and hands on research experience. |
| Previous NSF Postdoctoral Fellow at University of New Mexico | Research Interests
| Evolutionary Biology | Systematics | Taxonomy | |||||||
| restevez@georgiasouthern.edu | Rebekah "Bekah" | Estevez | Assistant Professor | 912-478-7929 | Brannen Hall | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Psychology | Bekah (she/her) is an Assistant Professor in the PsyD, Clinical Psychology program. She completed her master’s in Professional Counseling (2016) and PhD in Counseling Psychology (2022) from the University of Georgia. Bekah’s teaching interests include multicultural psychology, psychotherapy skills, advocacy, and helping students learn the art and science of psychotherapy grounded in strengths-based, culturally-responsive approaches. In clinical, advocacy, and research pursuits, she works to use her privilege as a white queer cisgender woman to explore the lived experiences of risk and resilience of those living at the intersections of oppressive systems. | Teaching PhilosophyWithin and outside of the classroom, Bekah's goal as an instructor is to develop critical scholars who have the necessary skills, knowledge, and tools to engage in culturally responsive psychology that makes a difference. Through active, applied, and process-oriented strategies, she endeavors to help students construct a critical and self-reflective framework that can be applied to all areas of professional psychology. She uses three pedagogical foci in her instruction: (1) cultivate community through collaboration, (2) emphasize the value of social justice and a liberatory stance, and (3) foreground the application of knowledge to the science and practice of psychology. |
| MEd, Professional Mental Health Counseling, University of Georgia, 2016 | BS, Psychology, Berry College, 2014 | Research Interests
| Resilience in response to chronic, systemic stress | |||||||||
| esnyder@georgiasouthern.edu | Elizabeth | Snyder | Associate Professor, Interim Associate Chair, School of Nursing | 912-344-2815 | Armstrong Hall 258-Armstrong Campus; NURS/CHEM 3024 Statesboro | Armstrong Campus, Statesboro Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | School of Nursing | Dr. Elizabeth Snyder, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC is an Associate Professor and the Interim Associate Chair in the School of Nursing. Dr. Snyder has 30 years of clinical nursing experience with 26 years as a Family Nurse Practitioner. She has worked in family practice, internal medicine, emergency medicine, retail health, home based primary care, and currently part-time performing Hospice care recertification visits. She has been an educator full-time since 2014. | Teaching PhilosophyDr. Snyder is passionate about ensuring student-centered learning is at the heart of all classes she teaches. As an advanced practice provider she also feels teaching evidence-based practice principles is key for new nurses and nurse practitioners. |
| Master of Science (Family Nurse Practitioner), Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina | Bachelor of Science in Nursing, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, Tennessee | Bachelor of Science (Psychology/Business management), East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, Tennessee | Research Interests
| Palliative and Hospice Care | Incivility and bullying issues in nursing and higher education | |||||||
| lamcgrath@georgiasouthern.edu | Allison | McGrath | Nursing Instructor | 912-344-2534 | Ashmore 260 | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | School of Nursing | Allison McGrath is a graduate from Georgia Southern University and serves as a Nursing Instructor on the Armstrong Campus. She teaching in the undergraduate BSN program, providing both didactic and clinical instruction. Allison has been a nurse for over 20 years. During this time, she has served in a variety of nursing rolls, including staff nurse, supervisor, educator, and unit manager. Teaching at GSU allows her to use her experience and knowledge as a nurse while teaching our students of tomorrow. Her goal is to develop each students' skills and make them the best nurses they can be. | Teaching PhilosophyI believe each student is unique. Their backgrounds are unique. Their needs are unique. How they learn may require a variety of different options. That means teaching requires a variety of teaching/learning methods for the students. I like to incorporate other means of learning, beyond lecture, into class. Group work, gaming, and oral presentations are a few things I use. My teaching philosophy encourages open discussion and engagement among students. I want them to think and understand the "why" behind what they are learning. It is my job as an educator to support my students allowing for the best learning opportunities available. |
| MSN-Ed, Western Governors University, 2022 | BSN, Georgia Southern University, 2002 | Research Interests
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| HWADMAN@GEORGIASOUTHERN.EDU | Henry | Wadman | MSN-Ed, RN | 912-344-4309 | Ashmore Hall 249 | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | School of Nursing | 5 years of postoperative Orthopedic care and excellent experiences working with diabetic educators were largely influential in my decisions to become a Nursing Instructor. My experiences working overseas in my teenage years exposed me to how impactful education can be on a population. | Teaching PhilosophyEmpowering students to be self-motivated learners and engaging their critical thinking are necessary to develop quality healthcare professionals. |
| Research Interests
| Gamefication | |||||||||||
| cheller@georgiasouthern.edu | Clayton | Heller | Professor | 912-478-5293 | Math/Physics 2009 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biochemistry, Chemistry & Physics | 2000 Professor, Georgia Southern University2004 Planetarium Director | Teaching PhilosophyInstructor of Astronomy & Physics |
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| Planetarium | |||||||||||
| mspencer@georgiasouthern.edu | M. Dylan | Spencer | Assistant Professor | 912-478-0328 | Carroll Building, Office 1093 | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Criminal Justice & Criminology | Dr. Dylan Spencer specializes in criminology with a focus on conservation-related crime. He utilizes spatial and quantitative methods to understand and address issues in this field, emphasizing prevention rather than explanation. Through interdisciplinary research, he seeks to connect criminology with conservation science, providing insights into the relationship between human behavior and environmental damage. |
| M.A., Radford University, 2018 | B.S., Virginia Tech, 2014 | Research Interests
| Spatial analysis | Crime prevention | Policing | ||||||||
| nhurlock@georgiasouthern.edu | Nancy A. | Hurlock | Assistant Professor | 912-478-0776 | Nurs/Chem Building Room 4018 | Statesboro Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | School of Nursing | Dr. Nancy A. Hurlock is an Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner with over 18 years of experience in Home and Community Health. She earned her Doctorate with a focus on Social Determinants of Health and their impact on older adults, particularly regarding access to healthcare. Her research emphasized the challenges faced by rural communities, particularly issues related to transportation and access to primary care. She advocates for home-based primary care as a solution to these challenges. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy is grounded in the belief that education is most effective when students actively engage with content and continually explore the underlying reasons for their learning. I strive to create an environment where knowledge is not merely transmitted but deeply understood and applied. |
| Master of Science- Nursing - Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner | Bachelor of Science in Nursing | Research Interests
| Healthcare access | |||||||||
| mecawilliams@georgiasouthern.edu | https://works.bepress.com/meca-williams-johnson/ | Meca | Williams-Johnson | Associate Dean and Professor of Educational Research | 912-478-5325 | 1100-B College of Education | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Curriculum, Foundations & Reading | Dr. Meca Williams-Johnson holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Psychology and is the Associate Dean in the College of Education at Georgia Southern University in Statesboro, Georgia. Her research interest includes exploring race and emotions and their influence on teaching and learning. Additionally, Dr. Williams-Johnson investigates undergraduate research experience, efficacy beliefs, parental involvement, African American homeschooling, and rural educational opportunities. Through planning, conducting, and publishing several research studies, Dr. Williams-Johnson has contributed to the larger body of knowledge and reported recommendations for high-quality educational experiences possible for all students. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching approach emphasizes the transformative potential of education. I challenge students to not only understand theoretical concepts but also consider their practical implications for creating equitable educational environments. By linking theory with practice, I hope to inspire students to become advocates for change in their communities. |
| MS, Florida State University, 1998. Major: Secondary Education Supporting Areas of Emphasis: Social Sciences | BS, Southern University and A & M College, 1997. Major: Secondary Ed. in Social Sciences | Qualitative Research Certificate, University of Georgia, May 2006 | Research Interests
| Parental Involvement | Efficacy Beliefs | Rural Educational Opportunities | |||||
| mcawthor@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/cosm/biology/faculty-staff/michelle-cawthorn/ | Michelle | Cawthorn | Associate Professor | 912-478-5758 | Biological Sciences | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biology | Born in Texas, I grew up in Hampton Roads Virginia. After attending ODU for undergraduate and MS degrees, I earned a PhD at Bowling Green State University in Ohio, did a postdoc at Indiana University, worked as a lecturer at Ball State University in Indiana, and finally began a job at Georgia Southern. | Teaching PhilosophyAll students can learn. It is up to us as instructors to provide the opportunities for learning through active-learning and engagement. To engage students, I use case-studies, real-world examples, data analysis, reading and analysis of primary (or secondary, depending on the level) literature, and lab (or lab-like) activities during class. I use all of these tools no matter the size of the class. In large classes (+ 180), I also use personal response systems as a way of providing both engagement and formative assessment. I treat students with respect and understanding, and foster a sense of inclusion in classes by interacting with as many different individuals as possible, and use group work to promote collaboration among students. |
| MS Old Dominion University 1984 | PhD Bowling Green State University 1989 | Post-doc Indiana University 1990-1992 | Research Interests
| learning how different pedagogies impact learning | |||||||
| tmaurer@georgiasouthern.edu | https://works.bepress.com/trent_maurer/ | Trent | Maurer | Professor of Human Development and Family Science | 912-478-1522 | Interdisciplinary Academic Building, Room 3079 | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | School of Human Ecology | Dr. Trent W. Maurer is a Professor of Human Development and Family Science [HDFS] in the School of Human Ecology at Georgia Southern University. He teaches undergraduate HDFS courses at the Statesboro campus and online. For decades, Dr. Maurer has taught multiple introductory-level courses, and he finds it incredibly rewarding to work with students at the “ground level” of the discipline, igniting their spark of interest in the field and helping them establish a solid foundation upon which future learning can be built. Dr. Maurer’s research concerns the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning [SoTL]. His focus aligns with ISSOTL Grand Challenge #5 to improve the practice, use, and growth of SoTL, and efforts to enlarge the field of inquiry. | Teaching PhilosophyMy Teaching Philosophy can be found on my University Webpage: https://sites.google.com/a/georgiasouthern.edu/tmaurer/ |
| M.S., University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign | B.A., University of Notre Dame | Research Interests
| ISSOTL Grand Challenge #5 | Undergraduate Research | |||||||
| rshaddad@georgiasouthern.edu | Rita | Haddad | Executive Assistant to the Dean | 912-478-0958 | Parker College Dean Office 2254 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Dean Office | Rita Haddad holds an MBA from the American University of London and currently serves as the Executive Assistant to the Dean at the Parker College of Business. With over 10 years of experience in executive support, she excels in organization, communication, and strategic planning. Previously, Rita was the Marketing Manager for a Mercedes-Benz dealership in Jordan, where she developed impactful marketing strategies and enhanced brand visibility. Her diverse background combines a strong understanding of business operations with a passion for the automotive industry. | Teaching Philosophy |
| BA in Management Information Systems | Research Interests | |||||||||||
| makcaoglu@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/mete-akcaoglu-2 | Mete | Akcaoglu | Professor | 912-478-0003 | COE 3131 | Armstrong Campus, Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Leadership, Technology & Human Development | I am a professor in the Instructional Technology program at Georgia Southern University, Leadership, Technology, and Human Development department. My research is focused on the design and evaluation of technology-rich and innovative learning environments for developing critical thinking skills in K-12 children. I am particularly interested in using game-design activities as a means of scaffolding students’ problem-solving skills and STEM interests. | Teaching PhilosophyAs an educator, I always strive to get my students to reach mastery of the learning outcomes, while creating a comfortable and flexible learning environment. My experiences designing and delivering learning experiences in diverse contexts has allowed me to understand the commonalities, differences, and intricacies regarding instructional design and delivery. |
| M.A., Middle East Technical University, Ankara, Turkiye | B.A., Bogazici University, Istanbul, Turkiye | Research Interests
| problem-solving | online learning | motivation theories | instructional design | |||||
| askipper@georgiasouthern.edu | Alan | Skipper | Associate Professor | 912-478-0389 | School of Nursing Room 3025 | Statesboro Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | School of Nursing | I attended the College of Coastal Georgia graduating in 2005 obtaining my Associate of Science Degree in Nursing. I then decided to further my education attending Georgia Southern University receiving my Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing in 2008, and Master’s Degree in Nursing from Valdosta State University in 2012. Then, I went on to complete my Doctor of Nursing Practice Degree from the University of Alabama. I am a Georgia Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, Family Nurse Practitioner, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have worked as Nurse Practitioner in the areas of Oncology, Primary Care, Mental Health, and Aesthetics. | Teaching PhilosophyMy goal as an educator is to work collaboratively with students in a mentor role as opposed to a traditional role of seeing a "teacher" as someone in an authoritative role. I like to work with students to empower them to use prior knowledge combined with new knowledge to create a synergistic phenomenon to create new ideas and build new concepts related to their expertise areas. |
| Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) | Family Nurse Practitioner | Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner | Research Interests
| LGBTQ Health | Aging Adults | |||||||
| ccriss@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?hl=en&user=InWSCo0AAAAJ | Caitlin J. | Criss | Assistant Professor | 912-478-0446 | COE 4114 | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Elementary & Special Education | Caitlin J. Criss, Ph.D. is an Assistant Professor in the Elementary and Special Education department at Georgia Southern University. Her research interests include increasing teachers' use of positive-based classroom management practices, performance feedback with technology, and effective reading interventions for students with disabilities. This research agenda is developed through a strong relationship with K-12 partnerships, administrators, and teachers. | Teaching Philosophy |
| MAT, National Louis University | BA, The Ohio State University | Research Interests
| Positive-based interventions and supports | Effective literacy instruction | Classroom management | Performance feedback and technology | |||||
| xfwang@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/parker/isa/xinfang-wang/ | Xinfang | Wang | Professor | 912-478-0523 | PCOB 3317 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Information Systems and Analytics | Xinfang Wang is a Professor of Business Analytics at the Georgia Southern University Parker College of Business. She received her PhD in Management Science from University of Cincinnati. Her scholarship focuses on the application of optimization modeling to product design and humanitarian logistics. She has published in journals such as Management Science, Decision Support Systems, Transportation Research Part B & Part E, OMEGA, and International Journal of Production Economics. | Teaching PhilosophyShe has taught Business Analytics Foundation I & II (undergraduate core); Predictive Analytics (major required); Advanced Analytics (major elective); and Managerial Decision Analysis (graduate). |
| B.E., Shanghai University, 1999 | Research Interests
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| lbsoares@georgiasouthern.edu | Lina | Soares | Professor of Middle Grades and Secondary | 912-478-7644 | University Hall -265 | Armstrong Campus | College of Education | Department of Middle Grades & Secondary Education | I am a Professor in the Department of Middle and Secondary Education at Georgia Southern University. As a function of the department, I predominantly teach graduate classes, and I chair and serve on education specialist and doctoral committees. Additionally, I am a specialist in gifted education. I have conducted numerous research presentations from international to state settings, focusing on effective pedagogical practices for content area teachers, adolescent literacy including critical literacy, and teacher leadership. | Teaching PhilosophyI find that a philosophy of teaching is a necessary antecedent to learning. Learning is acquired through collaboration - collaboration between students and between students and the teacher. Put another way, I support the theory that learning is not viewed as an isolated skill, but rather, learning involves discussion and student collaboration in meaning-making activities. Simply stated, I teach to engage students in active learning that is relevant to their own lives. In addition, my teaching philosophy emphasizes inclusion because I believe the recognition and affirmation of diversity is one fundamental way we, as educators, can promote democracy and understanding in the minds and actions of the students we teach. |
| MS, National University, 1993 | BA, University of North Carolina Greensboro, 1974 | Research Interests
| Content-Area Reading | Gifted Education | Effective Online Pedagogy | |||||||
| mgriffin@georgiasouthern.edu | Marlynn | Griffin | Professor of Educational Psychology | 912-478-0695 | 2127 College of Education | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Curriculum, Foundations & Reading | Marlynn M. Griffin is Professor of Educational Psychology in the Curriculum, Foundations, and Reading Department. She is the Pre-Professional Block (PPB) Coordinator, and teaches graduate courses in learning, assessment, and development. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy centers on fostering a student-centered, engaging environment in which learners connect theory to practice and grow through reflective exploration. Education should empower students to take active roles in their learning, and I design courses that leverage unique student perspectives and needs. Using a variety of instructional strategies and encouraging real-world applications, I help students bridge course concepts and authentic practice. My goal is to create a growth-focused, supportive atmosphere to promote engagement and lifelong learning. |
| M.S., Instructional Systems Design, Florida State University | Ph.D., Educational Psychology, Florida State University, | Research Interests
| Early Field Experiences | Pre-Service Teacher Efficacy | ||||||||
| ecain@georgiasouthern.edu | Elise | Cain | Associate Professor | 912-478-5341 | COE 3124 | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Leadership, Technology & Human Development | Elise J. Cain, Ph.D. (she/her/hers) is an Associate Professor of Educational Leadership at Georgia Southern University. She is also the Program Director of the Doctorate of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership. The themes of student-centeredness, theory-to-practice, and diversity and social justice serve as guiding principles in her work. Dr. Cain’s research focuses on college students from rural areas, place-based identities, and historically underrepresented populations in STEM fields. She has several scholarly publications, presentations, and funded grant projects related to these topics. | Teaching PhilosophyTeaching and learning have been (and always will be) cornerstones of my professional career. I aim to stimulate students ' intellectual curiosity about education and themselves through multiple pedagogical approaches, continual professional development, frequent evaluation, one-on-one interactions, and program coordination. Beyond simply absorbing concepts, I emphasize the application of knowledge within a holistic perspective of students. It is my hope as a faculty member that my actions not only assist the students in my classes but create a ripple effect of positive social change within education for the future. |
| M.S.Ed., St. Bonaventure University | B.S., St. Bonaventure University | Research Interests
| Place-Based Identity | Historically Underrepresented Populations in STEM Fields | ||||||||
| tsellars@georgiasouthern.edu | Tonya R | Sellars | ABSN Program Director/Senior Lecturer | 912-344-2622 | Ashmore 264 | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | School of Nursing | I attended Georgia Southern College Graduating in 1988 with my Bachelor of Science in Nursing. I then decided to further my education and obtain a graduate degree attending Georgia Southern University where I received my Masters Degree in Nursing focusing on Adult Health in 1996. After coming to Armstrong State University as an undergraduate instructor I returned to earn my Doctorate and Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner graduating in 2018 from Augusta University. I am a Georgia Advanced Practice Registered Nurse with an Adult Gerontology-Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certification from the American Nurses Credentialing Center. I have worked primarily in adult health medical surgical and critical care. | Teaching PhilosophyI incorporate a Holistic approach toward my students. A student's ability to focus and learn is affected by many factors including social, physical, emotional, and cognitive development. Remaining student-centered helps me focus on the best approach for my students to learn. |
| ANCC certified Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner | Master of Nursing - focus on Adult Health | Bachelor of Science in Nursing | Research Interests
| Chronic Illness | Adult Health | |||||||
| MLowrimore@georgiasouthern.edu | Madelyn | Lowrimore | Lecturer | 912-478-5056 | Statesboro Campus-Nursing Chemistry Building 3008 | Armstrong Campus, Statesboro Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | School of Nursing | Madelyn Lowrimore is an alumna of Armstrong Atlantic State University and Western Governors University. Mrs. Lowrimore is a lecturer within the School of Nursing and teaches undergraduate courses on both the Armstrong and Statesboro campuses. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy is grounded in constructivism, where I view learning as an active, student-centered process. I believe students build knowledge through experience, collaboration, and reflection. My role is to guide and facilitate by creating an environment that encourages critical thinking, problem-solving, and the application of nursing concepts to real-world situations. By promoting inquiry and discussion, I help students connect new information to their existing knowledge, fostering deeper understanding. Ultimately, I aim to empower students to take ownership of their learning, preparing them to be lifelong learners and skilled nurses. |
| BSN, Armstrong Atlantic State University, 2012 | Research Interests
| Interprofessional Collaboration | Curriculum Design & Development | Simulation | Innovative Technology | |||||||
| bserianni@georgiasouthern.edu | Barbara | Serianni | Associate Professor | 912-344-2635 | University Hall 260 | Armstrong Campus | College of Education | Department of Elementary & Special Education | Barbara Serianni is an alum of the University of Central Florida and is an Associate Professor of Special Education in the Department of Elementary and Special Education. Dr. Serianni teaches graduate courses and supervises in the department’s full online master’s degree programs. | Teaching PhilosophyAs a special education professor dedicated to training future educators, my teaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of understanding learner variability and fostering an inclusive environment where all students can thrive. I am committed to equipping my candidates with best practices grounded in current research and evidence-based strategies that they can apply in their P-12 classrooms. By encouraging critical thinking and reflective questioning, I empower future teachers to navigate the complexities of special education. |
| M.A., University of Central Florida | B.B.A., Florida Atlantic University | Research Interests
| Online teacher preparation | AI and Instructional technology | ||||||||
| cynthiamassey@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/cynthia-massey | Cynthia | Massey | Associate Professor of Special Education | 912-478-5204 | University Hall #263, Savannah, Georgia 31419 | Armstrong Campus | College of Education | Department of Elementary & Special Education | Dr. Massey is an Associate Professor of Special Education in the Department of Elementary and Special Education at Georgia Southern University. She teaches both undergraduate and graduate courses with an emphasis on applying effective, evidence-based practices to prepare future educators for the diverse needs of their students. Her research focuses on the use of instructional technology, transition services for individuals with disabilities, and best practices in educator preparation. | Teaching PhilosophyDr. Massey believes in nurturing future educators who are adaptable, compassionate, and skilled in evidence-based practices. Her teaching centers on fostering critical thinking, integrating instructional technology, and emphasizing practical applications that address diverse learner needs. With a foundation in inclusive teaching and transition planning, she aims to inspire her students to become innovative and resilient professionals, ready to make a meaningful impact in special education. Her goal is for each preservice teacher to graduate with the confidence and tools to support all learners most effectively. |
| Ed.S., Jacksonville State University | MAT, University of Central Florida | BA, Auburn University | Research Interests
| Transition Services in Special Education | Educator Preparation | ||||||
| klancaster@georgiasouthern.edu | Kristina | Lancaster | Recruitment and Engagement Coordinator | 912-478-5884 | Armstrong Campus: Ashmore Hall 237 Statesboro Campus: Nursing/Chemistry Building 1004 | Armstrong Campus, Statesboro Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | School of Nursing | Kristina completed her bachelor's degree in Sport and Leisure Management at ETSU and master's degree in Kinesiology with a specialization in Sport Psychology and Motor Behavior at UT-Knoxville. After working previously in athletics at other institutions, she started as an academic advisor on the Armstrong campus in 2016 for secondary admit programs. In 2021, she switched over to working in the Office of Career and Professional Development for all colleges and departments on the Armstrong Campus as a Career and Internship Advisor. Kristina is now the Recruitment and Engagement Coordinator in the School of Nursing to recruit students into the Nursing program as well as assist in connecting them to employment opportunities upon graduation. | Teaching PhilosophyI enjoy working with students to assist them in reaching their academic and career goals. I believe that higher education is a place to prepare each student for employment upon graduation and work to create an environment where students can feel comfortable in asking for help to reach their career goals. |
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| areyes@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/alexandra-j-reyes-2 | Alexandra J. | Reyes | Associate Professor | 912-478-5092 | College of Education, 4109 | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Middle Grades & Secondary Education | Dr. Alex Reyes is an associate professor at the College of Education at Georgia Southern University and serves as the ESOL endorsement coordinator. Dr. Reyes prepares pre-service and in-service teachers to work with culturally and linguistically diverse students, and to integrate arts and literature across the curriculum to increase equity and access. She draws on her diverse experiences working in P-12 education, non-profit organizations, and higher education (in Connecticut, Arizona, North Carolina, and Georgia) to direct her service and scholarly interests. | Teaching PhilosophyDr. Reyes' teaching, research, and service interests focus on the intersections of language, culture, and identity, and how they inform learning experiences for bi/multilingual and other marginalized communities in informal and formal settings. Dr. Reyes is also interested in study abroad experiences, as well as arts integration pedagogies and methodologies, particularly as means to lowering barriers for students from linguistically and culturally marginalized backgrounds. |
| M.Ed., Northern Arizona University, 2009 | B.S., Southern Connecticut State University, 2003 | Research Interests
| language and culture | ESL/ESOL/TESOL | teacher education | arts integrated pedagogies | Center for Women, Gender, & Sexuality Studies, National Youth Advocacy and Resilience Research Center | ||||
| lsomers@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=S9RQ294AAAAJ&hl=en&oi=ao | Logan | Somers | Assistant Professor | 912-478-0492 | University Hall | Armstrong Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Criminal Justice & Criminology | Logan Somers is an Assistant Professor in the Criminal Justice and Criminology Department at Georgia Southern University. He earned his Ph.D. in Criminology and Criminal Justice at Arizona State University. His research agenda involves working with local, county, and federal law enforcement agencies on emerging topics within policing such as officer work experience, police use of force, police culture, and evidence-based policing. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy revolves around providing students with experiential learning opportunities that prepare them for success upon graduation. To do so, I focus on implementing various learning strategies, materials, and assignments to generate critical thinking on important topics and issues within the criminal justice system. |
| M.S. Criminology and Criminal Justice - Arizona State University (AZ) | B.S. Justice Studies - Westminster College (UT) | Research Interests
| Officer discretion and decision-making | Police culture | Officer recruitment, retention, and wellness | CJ methods and policy | |||||
| adean@georgiasouthern.edu | Adam | Dean | Lecturer | 912-478-0327 | Carroll, 1089 | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Criminal Justice & Criminology | Mr. Dean holds a Master of Science in Criminal Justice from Lamar University. He also holds a Master of Public Administration from the University of West Georgia. He completed his undergraduate degree at Dalton State College, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. Mr. Dean has spent his career in the field of Juvenile Justice. He worked for the Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice where he served as a Juvenile Probation/Parole Specialist II & III. He supervised the High Intensity Supervision program in Whitfield & Murray Counties. Mr. Dean also worked for the Georgia Division of Family & Children’s Services (DFCS) where he spent much of his career in Child Protective Services and supervision. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy is grounded around the principles of servant leadership, adaptability, student-centered teaching, dynamic classroom engagement, creating a safe and inclusive classroom environment, and learning from diverse populations. Effective teaching requires a deep commitment to supporting students in their learning journey, while also fostering an environment that encourages collaboration, critical thinking, and growth. By embodying these principles in my teaching practice, I strive to empower students to take ownership of their learning, develop their skills and knowledge, and become engaged and active members of their communities. |
| M.P.A | B.S., Criminal Justice | Research Interests
| Child Welfare Policy & Practice | Hate Crimes | LGBTQIA+ issues in Criminal Justice | |||||||
| lconfer@georgiasouthern.edu | Leanne | Confer | Dr. | 912-478-8471 | Carroll Building | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Criminal Justice & Criminology | Leanne Confer is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology at Georgia Southern University. She received her doctorate in Sociology from Bowling Green State University in 2024. While there they taught several undergraduate courses, co-led a grant through the Ohio Attorney General investigating employment opportunities following incarceration, and assisted with several projects in the Toledo-area community. She earned her Master’s degree in Sociology from Bowling Green State University and Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Pennsylvania State University, Erie. | Teaching PhilosophyLeanne is student-oriented, privileging evidence-based teaching perspectives as a core part of their teaching philosophy. Teaching interests include applied statistics, research methods, drugs and society, and criminology. She has taught classes across both sociology and criminology, including Intro to Sociology, Criminology, Drugs & Society, Applied Statistics, and [Graduate] Quantitative Methods. |
| M.A. Sociology - Bowling Green State University | B.A. Psychology - Pennsylvania State University, Erie | Research Interests
| Public Policy | Collateral Consequences of Criminal-Legal Contact | Criminology Theory | Quantitative Methods | ||||||
| jbeckworth@georgiasouthern.edu | Jill | Beckworth, DNP, APRN, ANP-BC | Associate Professor | 912-344-2902 | Ashmore Hall 263 | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | School of Nursing | Dr. Jill Beckworth is a five-time graduate of Georgia Southern University and an Associate Professor in the School of Nursing. Dr. Beckworth primarily teaches in the graduate nursing program and any undergraduate didactic or clinical courses where there is a need. | Teaching PhilosophyI have been teaching at the university since January 2011. I quickly realized that I have always loved nursing but I now had a passion for teaching as I can effect change on a larger level. If you make an impact on a student, that impact is exponentially multiplied Having five degrees from Georgia Southern University, I strongly believe in lifelong learning and learning something new every day whether it is formal or informal learning. I am never that far removed from a student's perspective. I am my students' biggest encourager as I believe they have the ability to be successful. |
| MSN - ANP, Armstrong State University | BSN, Armstrong State University | ADN, Armstrong Atlantic State University | BBA - Marketing, Georgia Southern College | Research Interests
| Metabolic Syndrome | Adrenal Insufficiency | Primary Care Health | Student Learning | ||||
| kcrawford@georgiasouthern.edu | Kathleen | Crawford | Associate Professor of Elementary Literacy | 912-478-0353 | COE #4131 | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Elementary & Special Education | Kathleen Crawford, Ed. D. is currently an Associate Professor at Georgia Southern University, where she supervises student teachers in K-5 settings and teaches elementary literacy courses at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Prior to joining the faculty at Georgia Southern, she was a K–5 literacy coach and fourth and fifth grade English language arts teacher. Her research interests include engaging literacy experiences, enhancing elementary teacher education, mentoring beginning teachers, exploring the emotional dynamics involved in teaching and learning, and designing and implementing engaging online teaching practices. | Teaching PhilosophyMy philosophy as a teacher educator centers on the belief that students are active participants in their own learning, each bringing unique perspectives and diverse experiences to the classroom. I am dedicated to creating a safe, inclusive, and challenging environment where every student feels encouraged to reach their potential. I prioritize a student-centered approach, ensuring that my practices are rooted in care, engagement, and expertise that consistently place students at the heart of my instructional practices. Just as I encourage teacher candidates to meet the social, emotional, and academic needs of their future elementary students through asset-based practices, I strive to nurture the “whole teacher” in my college-level classes. |
| Research Interests
| Teacher Education | Emotions involved in Teaching and Learning | Humanizing Online Instruction | Mentoring Beginning Teachers | ||||||||
| wwofford@georgiasouthern.edu | Robin | Wofford | Clinical Assistant Professor of Instructional Technology | 912-478-0443 | College of Education Building | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Leadership, Technology & Human Development | Dr. Wofford joined Georgia Southern University in the Fall of 2021 after a 40-year career in P-12 Education. His teaching experiences include roles as a band director, school librarian, and technology integration specialist in Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia public schools. | Teaching PhilosophyMy pedagogical approach prioritizes active learning and critical thinking. Guided by principles of compassion, kindness, and the innovative potential of online education, I design assignments and activities that encourage students to apply their knowledge to real-world contexts and engage in substantive discussions. Timely and constructive feedback is provided to support student growth and development. |
| Specialist (Ed.S.) in School Library Media - University of West Georgia, 2007. | Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Library Media - State University of West Georgia, 2002. | Bachelor of Science in Music Education - University of Mississippi, 1981. | Research Interests
| Educator burnout and compassion fatigue. | Self-Censorship in school librarians. | |||||||
| scaslerfailing@georgiasouthern.edu | Shelli | Casler-Failing | Dr. | 912-478-5983 | College of Education 4117 | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Middle Grades & Secondary Education | Shelli Casler-Failing, Ph.D. is an Assoc. Professor of Middle Grades and Secondary Mathematics Education in the Dept. of Middle Grades and Secondary Education. Shelli has taught in both P-12 and higher education settings. As a classroom teacher, Shelli coached a First LEGO League team for six years, led robotics professional development workshops for teachers, and instructed numerous summer robotics camps. Shelli focuses much of her research on teacher education, mathematics education, productive struggle, and integrating robotics technology into mathematics curricula. | Teaching PhilosophyTeaching and learning are collaborative endeavors; teachers must create engaging, responsive, and interdisciplinary experiences for their students and students must be part of the decision-making process. In my experience teaching mathematics, students learn best when they are engaged with, and enjoy, the material. I strive to create learning environments in which students experience the joy of learning through exploration and am always searching for innovative ways to improve my lesson plans and teaching strategies, often seeking feedback from my students. I purposefully model these practices when teaching to ensure that pre-service teachers learn how to support their grades 4-12 students in doing math in addition to learning about math. |
| Master of Science in Secondary Education (Mathematics), University at Albany, SUNY – Albany, NY | Bachelor of Science (Mathematics), University at Albany, SUNY – Albany, NY | Research Interests
| Middle Grades and Secondary Teacher (Mathematics) Education | Productive Struggle | In-Service Teacher Professional Development | STEM Education | ||||||
| kcornett@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/coe/about/directory/dr-k-ariel-cornett/ | Ariel | Cornett | Assistant Professor of Elementary Social Studies Education | 912-478-7691 | 4139 College of Education Building | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Elementary & Special Education | Ariel Cornett, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor of Elementary Social Studies Education. Her research interests focus on the place-based teaching and learning of social studies in elementary classrooms and communities. She has been awarded a number of internal and external grants to support her scholarship. She has (co-)authored peer-reviewed publications in the following journals: Theory & Research in Social Education (TRSE), Journal of Social Studies Research (JSSR), Social Studies Research and Practice (SSRP), Social Studies and the Young Learner (SSYL), Teaching Social Studies in the Peach State (TSSPS), American Journal of Education (AJE), The Teacher Educators’ Journal (TTEJ), and School Community Journal (SCJ). | Teaching PhilosophyDr. Cornett teaches undergraduate and graduate elementary social studies methods courses. As a social studies teacher educator, my teaching philosophy focuses on place-based education (PBE) with inquiry-based approaches that center the perspectives and/or experiences of local peoples in context. To teach in these ways, you must know your students, their families, and their communities. Identity, intersectionality, Funds of Knowledge (FOK), as well as students’ and families’ assets are recognized; additionally, community assets are explored. Furthermore, you must know yourself - as an educator. Knowing yourself as an educator requires reflecting on and adjusting your practice in response to feedback. |
| MAT (Elementary Education), University of Virginia | Ph.D. (Curriculum & Instruction: Social Studies Education), University of Virginia | Research Interests
| Influence of Context (i.e., classroom, school, community, district or state) on elementary teachers’ instruction and students’ classroom experiences | Place-Based Education | Rural Education | Teachers' and students' use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in social studies classrooms | |||||
| salbeck@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&ved=2ahUKEwiLqOiso6-JAxUy4ckDHSLYGLwQFnoECBIQAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fscholars.georgiasouthern.edu%2Ffiles%2F15127627%2FScott_Beck_CV_2020_May_-_Scott_Beck.pdf&usg=AOvVaw2v36Fp6INQt8Gxze2QTc7I&opi=89978449 | Scott | Beck | Professor of Language & Literature Education, Innovation Faculty Fellow | 912-478-0354 | COE 4136 | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Middle Grades & Secondary Education | Before Georgia Southern, Dr. Beck worked in the US Peace Corps, migrant health and education, and as a middle school teacher. He holds degrees from Cornell University, UNCG, and UGA. He teaches courses regarding children's literature and culturally & linguistically diverse students. His research focuses upon controversial literature for young people, Latino identities in the rural South, and an instructional game that he designed and coded.In 2024, he was selected as Georgia Southern's Inaugural Innovation Faculty Fellow. In this role, he evaluates university intellectual property for commercializability and supports innovators' efforts toward IP protection, start-up formation, development funding, and technology licensing. | Teaching PhilosophyEvery day when my students join me in class or online, my job is to help them to form lasting memories. Thus, each class should feel novel, welcoming, relevant, challenging, and engaging. |
| M.Ed. in Middle Grades Curriculum and Instruction. University of North Carolina at Greensboro, College of Education, Greensboro, NC. | Ph.D. in Language Education. University of Georgia, College of Education, Athens, GA. | Currently enrolled: Paralegal Certificate (ABA), Clayton State University, Morrow, GA. | Formerly certified: Middle School Teacher in NC & GA | Research Interests
| Latino identities in the rural South | Designing, coding, and implementing online instructional games | Intellectual property and research commercialization | History | Business Innovation Group (BIG) | ||
| kzeigler@georgiasouthern.edu | Kathryn | Zeigler | Assistant Professor | 912-344-2585 | Ashmore 216 C | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | School of Nursing | I am Family Nurse Practitioner with clinical experience in obstetrics and gynecology. My doctoral research focused on metabolic screening in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Research interests include polycystic ovary disease, gestational diabetes, and best practices in undergraduate nursing education. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy is to curate a student-centered environment that creates self-motivated students who are working to achieve academic and clinical excellence. The emphasis on self-motivation produces life-long learners dedicated to the delivery of expert nursing care. |
| Master's of Science in Nursing, Georgia Southern University, 2015 | Bachelor's of Science in Nursing, Georgia Southern University, 2011 | Research Interests
| Gestational diabetes | Best practices in undergraduate nursing education | ||||||||
| dpeacock@georgiasouthern.edu | Danielle | Peacock | Senior Lecturer, Simulation Program Coordinator | 912-344-3283 | Ashmore Hall 250 | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | School of Nursing | Danielle Peacock is an alum of the University of Missouri - Kansas City and the University of Central Missouri. Mrs. Peacock is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Nursing and teaches simulation in undergraduate nursing courses on the Armstrong Campus. Additionally, she is the School of Nursing Simulation Program Coordinator for the Armstrong Campus and the Director of the Simulation Center in the Health Professions Academic Building. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy is learner-focused. I believe that every learner has value and dignity and deserves to be treated in a respectful, kind way. As a Simulationist, I hold to the Basic Assumption: Every student I encounter is intelligent, cares about doing their best, and wants to improve. I believe that students should be engaged through the use of dynamic teaching strategies. Everyone learns differently and educators have a high calling to adjust their teaching methods to reach as many students as possible through the various methods of learning. My teaching style is the guide from the side. Learners need encouragement to apply the knowledge they have learned and receive guidance when needed. |
| Bachelor's of Science in Nursing, University of Central Missouri | Research Interests
| Screen-based Simulation | Simulation Center | |||||||||
| sdogan@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/selcuk-dogan | Selçuk | Doğan | Associate Professor | Armstrong Campus - University Hall 258 | Armstrong Campus | College of Education | Department of Elementary & Special Education | Selçuk Doğan is an Associate Professor of Curriculum and Instruction at Georgia Southern University, focusing on curriculum development, teachers' professional learning, and educational technology integration. With expertise in online learning, he collaborates with educators to enhance student engagement through innovative strategies. Selçuk's research centers on AI in education, exploring how teachers learn and implement AI in their practice. He is developing practical guides to help faculty use AI tools like ChatGPT for lesson and course design. He also has extensive experience designing online, hybrid, and face-to-face courses, receiving recognition for his work in online education. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy centers on fostering a collaborative and reflective learning environment where students are encouraged to think critically and apply knowledge in practical contexts. By leveraging AI and educational technology, I aim to create inclusive spaces that promote active learning, creativity, and problem-solving. I believe in equipping students with the skills and adaptability needed to thrive in an evolving educational landscape. My goal is to empower both students and educators to become lifelong learners, capable of integrating new tools and methodologies, such as AI, to address real-world challenges. |
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| sarahrene@georgiasouthern.edu | Sarah | Rene | Administrative Assistant II | 912-478-1498 | PCOB 3309 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Logistics & Supply Chain Management | ||||||||||||||||
| kbarnwell@georgiasouthern.edu | Kim | Barnwell | Administrative Assistant II | 912-478-0587 | Parker College of Business, Dean's Office, room 2254 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Dean's Office | ||||||||||||||||
| xsun@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=CwkXHwIAAAAJ&hl=en | Xiaodi Ivy | Sun | Senior Lecturer | 912-478-5527 | PCOB 2246 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Management | Xiaodi “Ivy” Sun joined the faculty at Georgia Southern University in Fall 2019. She earned her Ph.D. in Hospitality and Tourism Management from Purdue University in 2018. Her research interests focus on foodservice management, food safety, and consumer behavior, and she has published in prominent journals such as the International Journal of Contemporary Hospitality Management and the Journal of Foodservice Business Research. Ivy brings teaching experience in principles of management, event management, and foodservice management. She is also a Certified ServSafe® instructor, registered ServSafe proctor, and Certified ServSafe Alcohol®. Outside of work, Ivy enjoys ballroom dancing and watercolor and gouache painting. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy is grounded in Benjamin Franklin's quote: "Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn." My teaching philosophy places a strong emphasis on experiential and active learning. I believe that students learn best when they are actively engaged in the learning process and have the opportunity to apply their knowledge in practical and meaningful ways. |
| M.S., Purdue University, 2014 | B.A., Wuhan University, 2012 | Research Interests
| Food Safety | Consumer Behavior | |||||||
| ayenipazarli@georgiasouthern.edu | Arda | Yenipazarli | Professor of Operations Management | 912-478-8010 | 3354 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Logistics & Supply Chain Management | Arda Yenipazarli's research focuses on sustainable operations and closed-loop supply chain management, exploring how firms can turn green initiatives into profit and competitive advantage. His work, featured in journals like Decision Sciences and European Journal of Operational Research, examines the strategic integration of sustainability practices, the operational challenges they present, and the role of policy in promoting green innovation. Yenipazarli has earned several awards, including the 2017 ENRE Young Researcher Award of INFORMS. At Georgia Southern University, he teaches courses on operations management and supply chain analytics. He also actively serves as a reviewer for top academic journals and holds editorial board positions. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy is centered on fostering a student-centered, interactive, and supportive learning environment. I see teaching as a partnership, where students are active participants who contribute their perspectives and engage deeply with the material. By integrating diverse instructional methods, including real-world examples, collaborative problem-solving, and hands-on activities, I aim to make learning relevant and practical, connecting course concepts to students' future careers. I am committed to maintaining high academic standards that promote critical thinking, problem-solving, and intellectual resilience. My approach encourages students to challenge themselves, think analytically, and take ownership of their learning. |
| B.S., Sabanci University, 2007 | Research Interests
| New product development and lifecycle management | Supply chain management | Competitive operations strategy | ||||||||
| mwiggins@georgiasouthern.edu | Michael | Wiggins | Lecturer | 912-478-7141 | 1127 PCOB | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | School of Accountancy | Michael Wiggins is a lecturer of legal studies in the School of Accountancy. He joined the faculty at Georgia Southern in 2008 and has taught courses in the law, fraud, and accounting. He serves as editor in chief of the School of Accountancy magazine "Eagle Accountant." He formerly was a corporate and private practice attorney. Mr. Wiggins is the author of the textbook: "White-Collar Crime: A Corporate Approach," and has published in a number of academic journals. He previously served as staff editor for the Journal of Legal Studies in Business. He has been a bar member since 1995 and is a Certified Fraud Examiner. Mr. Wiggins delivers continuing professional education seminars for CPAs throughout the country. | Teaching PhilosophyTreat students the way you would want to be treated: inspire them, push them to their limits, and prepare them to achieve the most with the gifts they've been given. |
| MS, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 2020 | MBA, University of Massachusetts-Amherst, 2008 | BFA, Wichita State University, 1989 | Research Interests
| Ethics | ||||||||
| pshannonbaker@georgiasouthern.edu | Peggy | Shannon-Baker | Associate Professor | 912-344-3530 | University Hall 208 | Armstrong Campus | College of Education | Department of Curriculum, Foundations & Reading | Dr. Peggy Shannon-Baker is an award-winning mixed methods researcher who studies critical international teacher education and culturally responsive mixed methods research. Dr. Shannon-Baker works as an Associate Professor of Educational Research and Affiliate Faculty Member of the Women’s, Gender, and Sexualities Studies Program at Georgia Southern University (USA) where they teach courses in mixed methods as well as other forms of research. Their scholarship has been recognized by awards from the Mixed Methods International Research Association and American Educational Research Association Division on Measurement and Research Methodologies. Shannon-Baker has also consulted on grants in education and nursing. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy is informed by Paris and Alim’s culturally sustaining pedagogy (CSP). CSP is characterized by an ongoing process and environment that fosters cultural pluralism; centers the values, knowledge, narratives, and experiences of marginalized communities; disrupts anti-Blackness and other forms of oppression; and encourages creativity and cultural production that embraces cultural pluralism. I demonstrate CSP by building on students’ prior knowledge in research methods, applying Gholdy Muhammad’s culturally and historically responsive literacy, modeling critical self-reflection like in the ways white supremacy shows up in my teaching, emphasizing creativity in assessments, and mentoring students in community. |
| Graduate Certificate in Asian Studies, University of Cincinnati | MA in Women's Studies, University of Cincinnati (2010) | BA in English, Wheaton College (MA) (2007) | Research Interests
| culturally responsive research | international education | teacher education | LGBTQ+ studies | |||||
| aflanigan@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/abraham-e-flanigan-2 | Abraham | Flanigan | Dr. | 912-478-8489 | 2107 COE | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Curriculum, Foundations & Reading | Dr. Abraham Flanigan is an Associate Professor of Education Psychology. Dr. Flanigan has held leadership positions in the American Educational Research Association, American Psychological Association, and the Scholarly Consortium for Innovative Psychology in Education. Dr. Flanigan has been recognized as one of the the most productive educational psychology scholars among early career researchers (Fong et al., 2022) and regardless of rank or title (Kubik et al., 2023). | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy centers on my passion for promoting self-regulation oflearning: I embed self-regulated learning strategy instruction into content instruction, so my students can develop into independent, lifelong learners. I believe that a strong foundation of student-instructor rapport is essential for student motivation and engagement in higher education classrooms. |
| M.A. in Educational Psychology (University of Nebraska-Lincoln) | B.S. in Psychology (Northwest Missouri State University) | Research Interests
| Student-instructor rapport | The motivation to learn | Digital distraction | Note-taking processes | |||||
| csorgen@georgiasouthern.edu | Carl | Sorgen | Associate Professor | 912-478-3108 | College of Education, Room 3107 | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Leadership, Technology & Human Development | Dr. Carl H. (Kip) Sorgen is an Associate Professor in the Educational Leadership program at Georgia Southern University, specializing in higher education administration. He prepares students for careers in colleges and universities through teaching in master’s and doctoral programs. His research focuses on supporting LGBTQ+ students in higher education, emphasizing inclusive environments. Dr. Sorgen’s administrative experience includes roles in faculty development, institutional research, LGBTQ+ student services, residence life, and annual giving. He holds a Ph.D. from Penn State, an M.A. from NYU, and a B.S. from Ohio University. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy centers on intentionality and student engagement. When instructing graduate courses in higher education administration, I place students at the heart of learning. I prioritize diverse teaching methods, challenging students while offering strong support. I design courses with clear goals and purposeful readings that connect theory to practice. Reflection and feedback are key, helping students synthesize knowledge and track their growth. My goal is to foster leaders and scholars who can apply their learning and drive change in education. |
| M.A. in Higher Education Administration, New York University | B.S. Ohio University | Research Interests
| Rural college students | Higher education faculty | ||||||||
| ashenderson@georgiasouthern.edu | Ann | Henderson | Lecturer | 912-478-7292 | PCOB 1129 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | School of Accountancy | Ann Henderson is a Certified Public Accountant and has over 30 years of experience teaching at the university level. | Teaching PhilosophyMy philosophy includes teaching in a clear and concise manner, motivating students to make earnest and industrious attempts to push themselves to learn and contemplate complicated concepts, and to show students that I value each one of them as an individual human being by my acceptance and openness towards a diverse student population. |
| University of Tennessee, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration | ||||||||||||
| daniellesmith@georgiasouthern.edu | Danielle L. | Smith | Director, Experiential Learning & Corporate Relations | 912-478-6047 | College of Business, 3330B | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Office of the Dean | Danielle has worked in higher education for 15 years in a variety of faculty and administrative roles. Her current position is broadly responsible for internships, corporate relationships, study abroad & away programming, and support of high-achieving student groups. Her teaching and academic background is in the fields of history and international affairs. | Teaching PhilosophyCenters on creating programs and opportunities that connect students with exploratory, practical experiences to complement classroom technical skills by enhancing critical thinking, human relations skills, and applied knowledge. |
| B.A., Georgia Southern University, 2006 | Research Interests
| Identity Commodification | WWII & Post-War Europe | Nationalism | Political Violence | |||||||
| wosborne@georgiasouthern.edu | Chris | Osborne | Assistant Director of Development & Alumni Relations | 912-478-5377 | Suite 2200, Parker College Building | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Office of Development & Alumni Relations | Chris Osborne is the Assistant Director of Development and Alumni Relations at Georgia Southern University’s Parker College of Business. At the Parker College Chris lead’s the College’s comprehensive alumni development and fundraising programs and works to build the overall Parker College Brand though the college's events, marketing, and corporate relations. Chris coordinates the activities of the Parker College Advisory Board and Young Alumni Board and created the annual Parker College Gala. |
| A.B., University of Georgia, 1994 | |||||||||||||
| ysaadatmand@georgiasouthern.edu | Yassaman | Saadatmand | Professor and department chair | 912-344-3202 | Armstrong campus Hawes 208B | Armstrong Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Economics | She received her MBA from James Madison University in Harrisonburg, VA, and her PhD in Economics from the University of New Hampshire in Durham, NH. She taught at Colby College in Maine before joining Armstrong College in Savannah, GA. She has been the chair of the Department of Economics at Georgia Southern since 2018. | Teaching PhilosophyI am flexible and respectful of students, and I continuously refine my teaching style as students change over time and their interests and educational backgrounds evolve. |
| Research Interests
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| dbrown@georgiasouthern.edu | Daniel | Brown | Director, Performing Arts Center | 912-478-0830 | Nessmith-Lane Conference Center #1105 | Statesboro Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Performing Arts Center | Daniel Brown is an Alabama native who has worked with several regional theatres, including the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, the Texas Shakespeare Festival, and the Cloverdale Playhouse. Daniel earned his MFA with a concentration in Arts Management from the University of Alabama, as well as his BA in Communication and Dramatic Arts from Auburn University Montgomery. Daniel has a passion for arts advocacy and sustainability, with his research focusing on mission development and assessment for non-profit organizations. | Teaching PhilosophyI believe that the classroom is an environment for implementing infrastructure that positively encourages student learning while actively equipping them with both the knowledge and skillset to enter their field well-prepared with the ability to move their industry forward while definitively shaping the future. |
| Master of Fine Arts in Arts Administration | Research Interests
| Arts Sustainability | Arts Advocacy | Performing Arts Center | ||||||||
| charter@georgiasouthern.edu | Chuck | Harter | Professor and Director | 912-478-0103 | PCOB 2203A | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | School of Accountancy | Chuck Harter is the Director of the School of Accountancy at Georgia Southern University. Prior to joining Georgia Southern, he was chair of the department of accounting and information systems at North Dakota State University in Fargo, North Dakota. Prior to obtaining his master’s degree Chuck worked in public accounting with the firm Kennedy and Coe, LLP. He has published in a variety of accounting and finance journals including the Journal of Accounting, Auditing, and Finance, Journal of Business, Finance and Accounting, Journal of Accounting Education, and The Journal of Accountancy. He is a CPA and CFE (Certified Fraud Examiner) and past president (2012/2013) of the Southeast Chapter of the Georgia Society of CPAs. | Teaching PhilosophyI enjoy the opportunity to help shape a student’s career. My philosophy is that employers are my customers and the students in my classes are the raw material that I must mold into a valuable finished product. I take every opportunity to talk with potential employers to help me determine what they need from the students they will employ. My classes focus on student learning, meaning that my classes are demanding, but fair. Each class I teach is different, but in every class I use various approaches to promote student learning. I make class interactive with group problems and student presentations. I don’t hesitate to call on students for answers to questions. |
| MS in Finance University of Wyoming | BS in Accounting University of Nebraska - Lincoln | Research Interests
| Financial Statement Fraud | |||||||||
| mdeleon@georgiasouthern.edu | Margaret "Maggie" | DeLeon | Lecturer | 912-478-0498 | University Hall 226 | Armstrong Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Criminal Justice & Criminology | Maggie H. Deleon is a Lecturer in the Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in Education at the University of the South in 2009 and earned her Juris Doctorate from the Walter F. George School of Law in 2012. Prior to her tenure with the Department, Maggie spent nine years as a special victims’ prosecuting attorney in the Chatham County District Attorney’s Office, handling homicides, sexual assaults, kidnappings, and other violent felonies. Maggie was also an active law enforcement instructor and trainer for several agencies in domestic violence, sexual assault, and vulnerable adult crimes, strongly focusing on evidence-based investigations and trauma-centered techniques. | Teaching PhilosophyWithin all my classes, I am to create a supportive learning environment that emphasizes mastery of the material through practical knowledge and real-world scenarios while promoting students’ individual growth as well as their critical thinking and writing skills. It continues to be my life’s goal to share my passion for the law through academia and to use my specialization to educate those interested in the criminal justice field through mentorship and to assist them with networking for employment. |
| Bachelor of Arts- Major: English, Minor: Education, Sewanee: The University of the South: | Research Interests
| Evidence Based Investigations | Trauma Centered Interviewing | |||||||||
| jinwookim@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.linkedin.com/in/jin-woo-kim-00925133/ | Jin-Woo | Kim | Associate Professor of Marketing | 912-478-7564 | Parker College of Business, Room 1131 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Marketing | I am an associate professor of marketing in the Department of Marketing at Georgia Southern University. I received his Ph.D. from the University of Texas at Arlington, holding my MBA and BBA in business administration from Business School of Sogang University, Korea. | Teaching PhilosophyI am a motivated marketing educator who inspires students to think critically and solve problems with their competencies and positive attitude. Communicating and engaging with the students is my priority as a professor. Kim teaches principles of marketing, principles of advertising, services marketing and global marketing at the undergraduate and graduate level.In 2021 and 2023, he was selected by SAAC (Student-Athlete Advisory Committee) as Professor of the Year. He received the W. A. and Emma Lou Crider Award for Excellence in Teaching in May 2022. Additionally, he was a finalist of Professor of the Year (Georgia Southern University, 2018) and received the T.J. Morris Jr. Faculty Award (2014). |
| MA, Sogang University, South Korea | Ph.D., The University of Texas at Arlington, U.S. | Research Interests
| Advertising effectiveness | Marketing-finance interface | |||||||
| adadkins@georgiasouthern.edu | Amee | Adkins | Professor of Education, Chair of Middle Grades and Secondary Education | 912-344-2778 | University Hall 201 | Armstrong Campus, Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Middle Grades & Secondary Education | Amee Adkins earned her Ph.D. in Social Foundations of Education from UNC Chapel Hill. Dr. Adkins is a Professor of Education and Chair in the Department of Middle Grades & Secondary Education. Dr. Adkins serves undergraduate and graduate students on the the Armstrong and Statesboro campuses. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy is grounded in commitments to active student learning and inclusive and engaging learning environments. I scaffold supports for student success and encourage students to think critically. |
| M.Ed., Georgia Southern University, 1992 | B.A., Georgia Southern University, 1990 | Research Interests
| Qualitative research methods | Equity in education | ||||||||
| kdemelogaldino@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=M7vIvykAAAAJ&hl=en | Katia | Galdino | Associate Professor of Management | 912-478-7215 | PCOB # 1126 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Management | Katia Galdino is an associate professor in the Department of Management at Georgia Southern University. Her research mostly analyzes strategic decisions of firms, such as internationalization, and the distinct strategic behaviors of firms from developing versus developed countries. Her scholarly contributions have appeared in journals such as Small Business Economics, International Small Business Journal, International Marketing Review, and European Management Journal. Galdino teaches strategic management, international business, and entrepreneurship at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Before her transition into academia, Galdino gained practical experience in international finance as well as import and export operations. | Teaching PhilosophyAs a management, and more specifically, a strategy scholar, my teaching revolves around enabling students to (1) understand the organization as a whole, (2) use data to inform their arguments, (3) appreciate the application of research to strategic decision-making, (4) stay informed about current topics and issues in the business world, and (5) practice and improve communication skills. These five pillars can help students make more informed decisions throughout their careers, not only when finding and starting their first job but also when moving into leadership positions. I seek to pursue these five pillars through a combination of activities and by incorporating research into my teaching. |
| Research Interests
| International Entrepreneurship | Emerging Markets | |||||||||
| mtoma@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=2_yUm1wAAAAJ&hl=en | Michael | Toma | Fuller E. Callaway Professor of Economics | 912-344-2538 | 212 Hawes Hall | Armstrong Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Economics | . | Teaching Philosophy. |
| Research Interests
| real estate | macroeconomics | public choice | ||||||||
| csproul@georgiasouthern.edu | Curtis | Sproul | Associate Professor | 912-478-5310 | PCOB 2245 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Management | Dr. Sproul teaches entrepreneurship and strategic management. His research has been published in academic journals such as Organizational Dynamics, Entrepreneurship: Theory & Practice and the Journal of Small Business Management. Dr. Sproul’s work has also garnered attention from major media outlets, including The New York Times, The Boston Globe, Entrepreneur Magazine, and MLB.com. | Teaching PhilosophyTo prepare students not for a job, but for a career, with strong critical thinking skills and deep knowledge about critical subject matter. |
| Research Interests
| Organizational Culture | |||||||||||
| stolman@georgiasouthern.edu | Steven | Tolman | Associate Professor | 912-478-5971 | COE 3102 | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Leadership, Technology & Human Development | Steven Tolman holds a Doctorate from Rutgers University, a Master’s from Texas Tech University, and a Bachelor’s from Central Michigan University. His previous roles included serving as a HIED faculty member and 12 years as a student affairs administrator. His research is theoretically informed and guided by the tenets of student development theory. In particular, he explores the application of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, Kolb’s Experiential Learning, Sanford’s Model of Challenge and Support, and Astin’s Theory of Involvement. This theoretical framework is intertwined with the two streams of his scholarly agenda: 1) The profession of student affairs and 2) The residential and co-curricular experience of college students. | Teaching PhilosophyI am involved in higher education professionally because I believe I can positively impact the lives of our students. I am especially attracted to teaching, as it allows me to inspire students academically, generate sincere interest in higher education/student affairs, and develop students’ critical thinking abilities. As a teacher-scholar, my research informs my teaching and enables me to engage with my students as scholars. To this end, I am deeply committed to challenging and supporting students to gain the theoretical and practical knowledge needed to propel them to begin their careers in higher education. |
| M.Ed., Texas Tech University, 2005 | B.S., Central Michigan University, 2003 | Research Interests
| Professional Preparation | Leadership, Supervision, and Management | Institute for Health Logistics & Analytics | |||||||
| ascroggins@georgiasouthern.edu | Althea | Scroggins | Administrative Assistant II | 912-478-5161 | P.C.O.B.- 3355 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Management | ||||||||||||||||
| marivera@georgiasouthern.edu | Melanie | Rivera | Media Designer | 912-478-8488 | 3356B | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Parker College Office of Marketing and Media | After receiving a bachelor’s in Theatre Performance from Kennesaw State University (with a minor in Photography), Melanie grabbed her camera and began to travel the world. She has visited 11 countries so far. In 2005, she made a trip around the globe by flying from London to Shanghai to L.A. to Atlanta and back to London to study for her master’s in Arts Management at Goldsmiths, University of London.Since 2001, Melanie has worked as a professional graphic designer and photographer on location and in the studio. She’s worked for Polaris Photo, Kaleidoscope Pictures, and The Picture People retail studios, as well as working on a freelance basis under the name Melanie Avita Photography. |
| 2006 MA Arts Administration and Cultural Policy at Goldsmiths University of London | |||||||||||||
| llocker@georgiasouthern.edu | Lawrence | Locker, Jr. | Professor of Psychology | 912-478-5423 | Brannen Hall 2040 | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Psychology | Lawrence Locker, Jr. received his doctorate in Cognitive Psychology from the University of Kansas and has been a faculty member in the Department of Psychology at Georgia Southern University since 2005. Dr. Locker teaches both graduate and undergraduate courses on the Statesboro Campus and has research interests in cognitive psychology and celebrity admiration. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy is first and foremost student-centered. My approach to teaching, whether in the classroom or the laboratory, is the teacher-scholar model. I encourage student engagement and critical thinking through a focus on how research informs our knowledge of psychology and its application in the real world. In the laboratory, my work consistently involves students in the research process at all steps from conception of studies to publication of results. |
| M.A., University of Kansas, 2001 | B.S., Fort Hays State University, 1995 | Research Interests
| Cognitive Psychology | Applied Cognition | ||||||||
| weikangwang@georgiasouthern.edu | Weikang | Wang | Lecturer | 912-478-8012 | pcob 2242 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Management | Ken Wang joins the Parker College of Business from Northwood University, where he was a full-time faculty member for 14 years and Faculty Athletic representative for 9 years. He won the highest award a faculty can earn at the university in 2014, the Faculty Excellence Award. Ken also won the Faculty Ethics Award and Teaching Excellence Award twice, as voted by students. Ken has management and marketing experience with the largest adult beverage company in North America (Seagram), and one of the biggest consumer goods companies in Germany (Reemstma). He has also worked for the United States Olympic and Chinese Olympic Committees. Ken is passionate about developing the future leaders of free global enterprise society. | Teaching PhilosophyI love teaching and I enjoy learning. Teaching is such a great profession, and it lets you share and also it makes you continuously learn and continuously improve. I constantly feel enriched by teaching, interacting with the students & colleagues, reading Wall Street Journal almost every day, travelling around the world. This continuous enrichment further enriches my students and makes them more eager to learn, to enrich themselves and to contribute to our society. It is never too late to learn! Never stops learning because life never stops teaching. The more I learn, the more I find I do not know and the more eager we desire to learn. “Life is growth. Business is growth. You grow or you die” |
| Washington State University | Anhui University | Research Interests
| International marketing | |||||||||
| mtabi@georgiasouthern.edu | Marian | Tabi | Professor | 912-478-5998 | Nursing & Chemistry Building, RM 3030 | Statesboro Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | School of Nursing | My tenure as professor of nursing at Georgia Southern University has included teaching undergraduate and graduate courses including research, biometrics, bioethics, and grant writing; and serving as chair and co-chair on DNP students’ clinical research projects, mentoring undergraduate and graduate students on research projects, and contributing to the education and preparation of pre-licensure, post-BSN to Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and post-master’s DNP. My contributions to nursing education have focused on preparing clinicians for practice in rural, HPSAs, and MUAs. I have secured several federally funded grants to prepare nurses for practice in rural settings to narrow the gap in health disparities and improve health outcomes. | Teaching PhilosophyMy personal philosophy of teaching is centered on mentoring individual students to learn and succeed. As a mentor, I serve as a teacher, sponsor, guide, exemplar, and counsel. My goal is not only to convey information but also to help students gain the skills and confidence to be responsible for their own future. |
| Research Interests
| Health Disparities and Vulnerable Populations | Nursing Education and Workforce Diversity | Quantitative and Qualitative Research Methods | Diabetes and Chronic Disease Management | ||||||||
| mhoward@georgiasouthern.edu | Melanie | Howard | Assistant Professor | 912-344-3507 | Ashmore Hall 238 | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | School of Nursing | Melanie Howard is an alum of Emory University and Armstrong Atlantic State University and is an Assistant Professor at Georgia Southern University. Dr. Howard teaches in the School of Nursing at the Armstrong Campus. She is passionate about the profession of nursing and empowering the next generation of nurses to nurture and lead our communities. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy encompasses an active and engaging learning environment that individualizes each person's learning styles. Students will be able to use their nursing education and critical thinking skills as a foundation for becoming an active and engaged member of the nursing profession. |
| South University Post Master's Certificate Family Nurse Practitioner | Armstrong Atlantic State University Master's of Science Clinical Nurse Specialist | Armstrong Atlantic State University Bachelor's of Science Nursing | Research Interests
| Primary Prevention Vaccinations | Innovative Methods for Teaching in Nursing Education | Impact of Simulation-Based Training on Nursing Learning Outcomes | Complementary Medicine | |||||
| dsikora@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/searchAll/index/?search=david+sikora&pageSize=25&showAdvanced=false&allConcepts=true&inferConcepts=true&searchBy=PartOfNameOrTitle | David | Sikora | Professor | 912-478-6975 | PCOB 2214 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Management | David Sikora, professor of management, teaches a variety of human resource management courses. His research interests include strategic human resource management and the business impact of employee management practices. He has published his research in such journals as the Journal of Applied Psychology, Leadership Quarterly, Human Resources Management Review, and Human Resources Management. | Teaching PhilosophyLearning is best achieved through student engagement, interaction, and knowledge application within a learn by doing environment. Specifically, my teaching strives to help students become more knowledgeable about important management principles, and to effectively apply these concepts as both managers and as employees. |
| Bachelor of Science, Industrial & Labor Relations, Cornell University – Emphasis in Human Resource Management | Research Interests
| The business impact of employee management practices | |||||||||
| tdiamanduros@georgiasouthern.edu | Terry | Diamanduros | Professor of School Psychology | 912-478-1548 | Room 2103, COE Building | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Leadership, Technology & Human Development | Dr. Terry Diamanduros is a professor and program director of the School Psychology Program. Her research interests focus on childhood trauma and its impact on boys, cyberbullying, and the impact of social media on child and adolescent development. She is a member of the National Association of School Psychologist (NASP) and Georgia Association of School Psychologists (GASP). She has served as a NASP delegate and member of the GASP Executive Board. She also serves on the editorial board for the School Psychology Review; Psychology in the Schools; Journal of Aggression, Maltreatment, and Trauma; and Journal of Child Sexual Abuse. | Teaching PhilosophyAs a professor, I am committed to utilizing a student-centered approach to teaching. I strive to establish a classroom environment that is engaging and inclusive so that students feel supported and valued. It is my goal to create a climate in which they feel safe to express their thoughts, ask questions, and engage with others in the classroom so that they can be successful. |
| M.A., New York University, 1991 | B.A., Clemson University, 1982 | Research Interests
| Impact of trauma on boys | Cyberbullying | Impact of social media on child and adolescent development | |||||||
| gwcampbell@georgiasouthern.edu | Glynnece W. | Campbell | Lecturer | 912-344-2975 | Ashmore 168 | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Department of Clinical Science | Dr. Glynnece Campbell is an alum of Rutgers University School of Health Professions and is program director for the Medical Laboratory Science Program at Georgia Southern Armstrong campus. She teaches several courses within the MLS program. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy focuses on fostering critical thinking skills in my students. This is done by creating an engaging environment that coordinates didactic and laboratory practices with current events in healthcare. |
| Masters of Business Administration, concentration in Healthcare Administration, South University | Bachelors in Medical Technology, Augusta University | Bachelors in Biology, Gardner-Webb University | Research Interests
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| epitt@georgiasouthern.edu | Eloise | Pitt | Senior Lecturer/ Criminal Justice and Criminology Internship Coordinator | 912-478-8031 | Carroll Building Office # 1092 | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Criminal Justice & Criminology | Eloise Pitt received her Undergraduate Degree from East Carolina University and her Graduate Degree from Kentucky State University. Her work experience consists of the Public Sector with The Department Of Corrections in North Carolina, Private Sector with Juvenile Justice System in the states of South Carolina and Pennsylvania and Dept. of Child and Family Services in North Carolina . Mrs. Pitt teaches undergraduate courses and is also the Internship Coordinator for the Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy is that higher education must go beyond simply passing on information to students, but it must be a shared participatory action from both the instructor and student. It should involve a curriculum that foster methods to teach students how to develop, analyze, and communicate what they are learning and how to apply that with real life current events in their major. For many students, the most powerful lessons are learned through informal discussions, working through problems and engaging in real life practices to bring forth resolutions that can be applied out in the world. |
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| kmercer@georgiasouthern.edu | Katie | Mercer | Assistant Professor | 912-478-1343 | Hendricks Hall 2007 | Statesboro Campus | Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health | Department of Health Policy & Community Health | Dr. Mercer is a newly-transitioned non-tenure track to tenure track faculty member at the JPHCOPH. Previously she has published in the area of environmental health and the scholarship of teaching and learning. She persists to move forward her research agenda through multidisciplinary collaboration. Dr. Mercer focuses her research efforts on LGBTQ+ health issues, medical billing and coding, and the scholarship of teaching and learning (SoTL). She currently is working on projects related to barriers to seeking and/or receiving care among the LGBTQ+ population, medical coding data related to the SDoH, and vulnerability amongst university professors as it relates to teaching and learning. | Teaching PhilosophyTeaching with vulnerability is important for me as a public health professional. |
| Armstrong Atlantic State University, MPH 2005 | Georgia Southern University, DrPH 2014 | Research Interests
| Knowledge of SoTL | Medical Billing and Coding | Center for Public Health Practice and Research, Institute for Health Logistics & Analytics | |||||||
| melissacampbell@georgiasouthern.edu | Melissa | Campbell | Administrative Assistant | 912-478-5767 | Hawes Hall, Room 110 | Armstrong Campus | Parker College of Business | Office of Graduate Programs | ||||||||||||||||
| estewart@georgiasouthern.edu | Errol | Stewart | Associate Professor of Accounting | 912-478-8009 | Parker College of Business | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | School of Accountancy | Dr. Errol Stewart teaches auditing and financial accounting courses. He conducts archival research in auditing and his projects include auditor regulation, audit quality and reporting and audit pricing. Prior to commencing his academic career, Errol was a Senior Manager at Deloitte in Jamaica. He has several years’ experience in external and internal auditing in many industries He also spent several years in corporate roles. This includes serving as chief executive officer, chief financial officer and chief investment officer for companies in the financial and manufacturing sectors. His entrepreneurial activities include co-founding several companies with a group of investors as well as a family retail business. | Teaching PhilosophyMy goal is to stimulate and develop my students’ deep understanding of the subject matter,thereby ensuring that we are producing capable graduates who are ready for the world of work. I accomplish this in my classes, for example, by establishing the importance of understanding the business’s operation and environment, and the nature of its transactions as prerequisites to knowing how to record, report, review, interpret and audit transactions and events. |
| • MS (Accounting), University of the West Indies | • BS (Economics), University of the West Indies | Research Interests
| auditor regulation | auditor quality | ||||||||
| jlwilliams@georgiasouthern.edu | Joshua | Williams | Professor & Chair of Criminal Justice and Criminology | 912-478-0337 | Carroll Building 1087A | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Criminal Justice & Criminology | Dr. Josh Williams earned his B.A. in Health & Kinesiology from Purdue University in 2004 and his M.A. and Ph.D. in Psychology (Experimental) from the University of Tennessee in 2009 and 2011, respectively. Across all research endeavors, he encourages a great deal of undergraduate and graduate involvement so students have the opportunity to apply what they learn in the classroom, explore topics of interest in greater detail, gain experience with novel technology (e.g., eye-tracking), and experience the full process of experimental research from beginning to end. | Teaching PhilosophyIn all of my courses, I strive for perpetual improvement in content, up-to-date evidence-based activities, and real-world applications. These aspects are extremely important as I want my students to develop transferrable knowledge and skills as they transition into graduate education and/or careers. Students will find that in all courses I teach, I am enthusiastic for the subject matter and always find ways to individualize instruction. |
| M.A., Psychology (Experimental), University of Tennessee | Ph.D., Psychology (Experimental), University of Tennessee | Research Interests
| Psychological Variables in Crime and Criminology | Visual Attention (eye-tracking) and Cognition | Perceptual-motor Development | Active Learning in Higher Education | ||||||
| kdelgado@georgiasouthern.edu | Kristy | Delgado | Administrative Assistant I | 912-344-2550 | Armstrong | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Department of Clinical Science | None |
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| fgrossmann@georgiasouthern.edu | Florinda | Grossmann | Mrs. | 912-478-5274 | 2215 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Management | Florinda Grossmann joined Parker College of Business at Georgia Southern University as a part-time lecturer in August 2023; and she holds a life and health insurance license with a specialty in IULs (Indexed Universal Life). | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy is to create a challenging but caring learning environment where my students can thrive. |
| BBA in Management | Research Interests
| Life Insurance | Finance | |||||||||
| srhodes@georgiasouthern.edu | Sam | Rhodes | Assistant Professor of Elementary Mathematics Education | 912-478-5236 | 4126 College of Education Building | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Elementary & Special Education | Sam Rhodes, Ph.D. is an Assistant Professor of Elementary Mathematics Education in the Department of Elementary and Special Education. Dr. Rhodes is an alum of Georgia Southern University and teaches undergraduate and graduate mathematics content and methods courses for pre-service teachers. His work centers on the cognitive, metacognitive, and affective factors influencing problem-solving success. He has also served as a Co-PI and PI on multiple successfully funded projects aimed in increasing student success in problem solving, and is an Associate Editor of the MTLT journal. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy is grounded in constructivism. Within this, I work to create student-centered lessons that engage students in critical thinking, discussion, and problem solving. In addition, equity is a focal point of my teaching. My goal is to create environments in which students feel safe to learn, grow, and critically analyze the world around them. |
| M.A.E.d., William & Mary | B.S., William & Mary | Research Interests
| Metacognition | Executive Function | ||||||||
| ehwilliams@georgiasouthern.edu | Ellen | Williams | Senior Lecturer; Program Coordinator for BS in Psychology | 912-478-5580 | Brannen Hall, 1035 | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Psychology | Ellen H. Williams earned her B.S. in Psychology from Furman University and her Ph.D. in Experimental Psychology from the University of Tennessee. She currently serves as a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Psychology, where she is the program coordinator for the undergraduate psychology degree. Dr. Williams teaches courses on both the Statesboro campus and in the online program. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy is centered around implementation of evidence-based teaching strategies that inspire student engagement, critical thinking, and academic success. I am dedicated to cultivating collaborative learning environments where students can actively participate in the discovery process and develop essential skills for both academic and professional success. |
| B.S., Furman University, 2004 | Research Interests
| Academic honesty and AI usage | ||||||||||
| pstepanek@georgiasouthern.edu | Peggy | Stepanek | Director of Budgets and Administration | 912-478-4445 | Parker College of BUsiness | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Parker College Dean's Suite |
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| stephaniedevine@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/stephanie-m-devine-2 | Stephanie | Devine | Associate Professor | 912-478-5244 | 4103, College of Education Building | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Elementary & Special Education | Stephanie M. Devine, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor of Special Education in the Department of Elementary and Special Education at Georgia Southern University. Dr. Devine is also the Executive Director of EAGLE Academy at Georgia Southern, which is an inclusive postsecondary education program for young adults with intellectual disability. Her research focuses on preservice and in-service teacher preparation; the use of Universal Design for Learning, technology, and peer mentors to support successful postsecondary transition; and competitive integrated employment for individuals with intellectual and developmental disability. | Teaching PhilosophyAll students deserve an inclusive learning environment where diverse needs are met, and every student can succeed. Using Universal Design for Learning (UDL) in my instruction, I strive to offer varied paths to engagement, representation, and expression, so each student can access content meaningfully. I hold high expectations and foster a belief that every student can achieve excellence. Learning is an iterative journey. By incorporating regular, targeted feedback, I encourage students to revisit and refine their understanding, promoting growth and mastery over time. My goal is to create a supportive classroom where each student feels empowered to take risks, learn from mistakes, and build resilience in their academic and personal pursuits. |
| MEd in Special Education, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, 2010 | BA in English, California Lutheran University, 1998 | Research Interests
| inclusive postsecondary education | preservice special education teachers | postsecondary transition for students with disabilities | Universal Design for Learning | EAGLE Academy | ||||
| jarvaisjackson@georgiasouthern.edu | Jarvais J | Jackson | Assistant Professor of Culturally Responsive Teaching; Co-Program Director, MAT ELEM ED | 912-478-0635 | University Hall - 261 | Armstrong Campus | College of Education | Department of Elementary & Special Education | Dr. Jarvais Jackson is an Assistant Professor of Elementary Education and Culturally Responsive Pedagogy at Georgia Southern University, where he champions equitable learning and supports teachers’ growth. Dr. Jackson promotes family engagement, especially within Black communities, and his research focuses on Black educational wellness through African Diaspora Literacy and Community Cultural Wealth. Nationally, he serves on NCTE’s Professional Dyads of Culturally Relevant Pedagogy (PDCRT) and shares his insights at conferences like AERA and NCTE, inspiring educators to become transformative, justice-driven teachers. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy is rooted in equity, inclusion, and the belief in every student’s potential. I aim to create an environment where students feel seen, valued, and empowered to think critically about social justice in education. Drawing from African Diaspora Literacy and pro-Black pedagogies, I guide students to recognize and honor diverse experiences in their classrooms, fostering a commitment to culturally responsive teaching. My role is to support future educators in becoming advocates for all learners, encouraging them to meet students where they are while inspiring transformative learning for a better, more just world. |
| Research Interests
| Family Engagement | Black Research Methodologies | Classroom Management | African Diaspora Literacy | Center for Africana Studies, National Youth Advocacy and Resilience Research Center | |||||||
| alockwood@georgiasouthern.edu | Ashley | Lockwood | Dr. | 912-344-3166 | University Hall, Rm 219 | Armstrong Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Criminal Justice & Criminology | Ashley Lockwood is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology at Georgia Southern University. Currently, Dr. Lockwood conducts research surrounding the influence of adverse childhood experiences on juvenile court outcomes. Her research has been accepted for publication in peer-reviewed outlets such as Criminal Justice and Behavior and Youth Violence and Juvenile Justice. Dr. Lockwood teaches courses on the Armstrong campus. | Teaching PhilosophyAs an educator, I believe it is important to promote an environment for learning centered around respect for others while still providing a platform for open dialogue. It is my goal for students to develop comprehension of course material while also developing skills that can be applied outside of the classroom. Through my course, I am hopeful students learn that engagement is important to their success, and that respectful and diverse communication allows for both personal and professional growth. |
| M.S., Fort Hays State University, 2020 | Research Interests
| mental heath in the justice system | trauma/ACEs | |||||||||
| vhannes@georgiasouthern.edu | Victoria | Hannes | Clinical Instructor | 912-344-3247 | University Hall 213 | Armstrong Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Criminal Justice & Criminology | Ms. Victoria Hannes is a Double Eagle from Georgia Southern University, receiving both her Masters and Bachelor degrees from the university. She teaches undergraduate and graduate courses on the Armstrong Campus. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy at the core encourages critical thinking and engagement in the learning environment, where students are motivated to apply their knowledge to real-world challenges and scenarios. I believe in dynamic learning and push to create a classroom that fosters an inclusive environment that stimulates collaboration, interest, and development. |
| B.S., Criminal Justice and Criminology (2022) Georgia Southern University | Research Interests
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| cwalsh@georgiasouthern.edu | Clare | Walsh | Senior Lecturer | 912-478-1473 | 2269B Carroll Building | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Sociology & Anthropology | Dr. Walsh is a Senior Lecturer in Sociology who received her MA in Women Studies from the University of South Florida in 2007 and her PhD in Sociology with a Concentration in Women’s Studies from the University of Florida in 2013. She joined the faculty at Georgia Southern University in 2015. Dr. Walsh teaches courses at the undergraduate and graduate level on the Statesboro campus and online. | Teaching PhilosophyMy pedagogical focus is to create an active, positive learning environment. I work to help students develop skills to critically evaluate the social system they live in and see how their own life experiences and the experiences of others form that social world. Since many topics and experiences discussed in class may bring reactions of anxiety, confusion, embarrassment, tolerance, and even anger, I strive to create a class environment encouraging mutual respect. Experiences of others may be different and seem strange to students, but I work to help students recognize any differences are to be appreciated and are not to be judged. |
| MA, University of South Florida, 2007 | MSEd, University of Kansas, 1990 | BSFRC, University of Florida, 1982 | Research Interests
| Gender | Family | Intersectionality | ||||||
| tmjackson@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/torri-m-jackson | Torri | Jackson | Assistant Professor, Educational Leadership | 912-478-5204 | University Hall, Office 239 | Armstrong Campus | College of Education | Department of Leadership, Technology & Human Development | I am an alum of Georgia Southern University, and I am an Assistant Professor of Educational Leadership in the Department of Leadership, Technology, and Human Development. I am an experienced P-12 educator at all levels, and I currently teach graduate educational leadership courses within the M.Ed. and Ed.D. programs. | Teaching PhilosophyI believe leadership is both innate and learned, and my approach to providing instruction is centered around this belief. Through the use of leadership theory in practice, my students are developing a leadership toolkit that will positively impact P-12 student achievement and school improvement. |
| Ed.S., Georgia Southern University, 2017 | M.Ed., Georgia Southern University, 2002 | B.S.Ed., Georgia Southern University, 1999 | Research Interests
| Restorative school discipline practices | Mental and physical health of school leaders | Mentorship of school leaders in rural school districts | |||||
| ericlanders@georgiasouthern.edu | Eric | Landers | Associate Professor | 912-478-1549 | 4102 | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Elementary & Special Education | Eric Landers holds a Ph.D. from the University of Florida, specializing in children with Emotional and Behavioral Disorders (EBD). His experience includes working as a classroom teacher for students with EBD, serving as a professor at both West Virginia University and Georgia Southern University, and working as an independent consultant in school-wide behavioral systems. Dr. Landers' expertise centers on bullying prevention, addressing challenging behaviors, and implementing school-wide Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS). | Teaching PhilosophyAs an educator, my role is to create an inclusive, empowering environment where students with diverse abilities can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. |
| Research Interests
| Classroom Management | School-wide Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) | ||||||||||
| cbodkin@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/candice-pippin-bodkin | Candice | Bodkin | Associate Professor | 912-478-5589 | Carroll Building, 1082 | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Public & Nonprofit Studies | Candice Pippin Bodkin, Ph.D. is an Associate Professor in the Department of Public and Nonprofit Studies and the Co-Director of the Institute for Vibrant and Engaged Communities. Her research and teaching primarily focus on social equity, human resource management, local government management, and their intersections. She uses quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods approaches to examine how institutional and organizational policies mitigate or exacerbate inequalities in the workplace and public service provision. | Teaching PhilosophyI believe in creating learning communities where students feel supported and engaged in the ownership of their learning process and goals. I strive to provide hand-ons learning opportunities for students to apply their knowledge and critical-thinking skills to solve real-world community problems. |
| Master of Public Administration (MPA) from NC State University | Master of Education in Secondary Social Studies Education from the University of Florida | Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology and Political Science from the University of Florida | Research Interests
| Human Resource Management | Social Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion | Community Resilience | Institute for Vibrant and Engaged Communities | ||||
| hjin@georgiasouthern.edu | Hui | Jin | Associate Professor | 517-604-1558 | 232 University Hall | Armstrong Campus | College of Education | Department of Middle Grades & Secondary Education | Jin’s research focuses on learning progressions, mathematical thinking in science, data reasoning, technology-enhanced science assessment, automated scoring, and science teachers’ AI literacy. Her research is funded by external grants totaling over $3 million. Her edited book, Handbook of Research on Science Learning Progressions, was ranked #3 in Science and Technology Teaching Materials on Amazon in August 2024. Her publications appear in journals such as Journal of Research in Science Teaching and Science Education. The National Association for Research in Science Teaching included two of her papers in the Research Worth Reading List for teachers. Wiley recognized her paper as a top-downloaded paper in Science Education Journal in 2020. | Teaching PhilosophyMy goal as a teacher educator is to equip my students with the competencies and dispositions that will enable them to become successful teachers, researchers, and teacher educators, capable of empowering their students to succeed and thrive in a rapidly changing world. These competencies and dispositions include innovation and creativity, critical thinking abilities, a lifelong learning mindset, sociocultural responsiveness, and digital, data, and science literacy. |
| Research Interests
| Mathematical Thinking in Science | Data Reasoning | Automated Scoring | Science Teachers' AI Literacy | ||||||||
| jweaver@georgiasouthern.edu | John | Weaver | Professor | 912-478-1079 | COE Building 2125 | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Curriculum, Foundations & Reading | John A. Weaver has been at Georgia Southern University since 2001. His research interests include the philosophy and history of science and the posthuman condition. | Teaching PhilosophyEducation is a journey, not steps to follow or certificates to earn. It is a path to be created by a curious mind that wishes to read broadly and deeply. A university is not a site for job training, it is holy ground of the mind so that individuals may wonder freely and think incessantly without economic or political consequences. A society that does not allow this is not free but tyrannical. |
| Masters of Art History Villanova University | Ph.D. Comparative Education University of Pittsburgh | Research Interests
| The Posthuman Condition and the Humanities | Curriculum Studies | ||||||||
| avalauri@georgiasouthern.edu | Anne | Valauri | Assistant Professor | 912-478-5204 | University Hall #233 | Armstrong Campus | College of Education | Department of Elementary & Special Education | Anne Valauri, PhD. is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Elementary and Special Education and the Program Coordinator for the Birth-Kindergarten Teacher Education program at Georgia Southern University. Her research interests include transformative family engagement in theory, practice, and teacher education, as well as play and teaching body diversity in early childhood. Before coming to Georgia Southern, she spent several years as a teacher/researcher at an early childhood center in the U.S. Midwest with a large immigrant population of diverse regional origin, and taught in a bilingual Head Start program before that. | Teaching PhilosophyI follow a philosophy of culturally responsive pedagogy and modeling this for our students, which means holding high academic expectations while also treating students with empathy, dignity, and respect. This also means teaching cultural competence while also reflecting students’ funds of knowledge as they work toward or continue their experience as educators of children. Lastly, this looks like helping them expand and develop their critical consciousness towards both the institution of education and the lived experiences of their students and the families they serve. |
| M.Ed. University of Texas at Austin, 2014 | B.S. Northwestern University, 2009 | Research Interests
| Equitable Childhoods | Body diversity | Multilingual Learners and Families | Multicultural Children's Literature | ||||||
| agutierrez@georgiasouthern.edu | https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6809-1728; https://scholar.google.com/citations?hl=en&user=1wZbNEoAAAAJ | Antonio | Gutierrez de Blume | Professor | 912-478-4831 | COE 3335 | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Curriculum, Foundations & Reading | Antonio P. Gutierrez de Blume, Ph.D., is currently a Professor of Research, where he teaches quantitative research methods and statistics in a variety of online graduate programs. His research expertise is in examining metacognition under the theory of self-regulated learning. More specifically, he is interested in how learners monitor their comprehension during learning episodes. His program of research includes examining the effects of dispositional characteristics (e.g., various aspects of motivation) and learning strategy training on learners’ calibration (accuracy and bias), confidence in performance judgments, and performance as well as investigating the latent dimensions of calibration to improve its measurement. | Teaching PhilosophyAs a teacher, I endeavor to create a classroom climate that promotes higher-order thinking skills in my students, whether in a face-to-face/traditional or in an online/distance format. As such, my teaching approach is predicated on my research interests, which involve the advancement and promotion of higher-order thinking skills (e.g., metacognition, metamemory, metacomprehension, critical thinking, and creative thinking and creativity), all of which are rooted in the theories of self-regulated learning and metacognition. Finally, I have experience in fair, just, and equitable grading practices as well as other forms of student assessment of performance (e.g., rubric-based assessment). |
| Research Interests
| Center for STEM Education (i2STEMed), Graduate Academic Services Center (GASC)-Graduate Advisement, National Youth Advocacy and Resilience Research Center | ||||||||||
| kfisher@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?hl=en&user=4iAYuzcAAAAJ&view_op=list_works&gmla=AL3_ziiSiZeZpSBR6oqM2gJQTIcogu6y971R7V1TVfAsjl9quqagyqkqoG4NoiBVFH1qZ9c8k3AM3G6CWBGyHJIh | Karin | Fisher | Associate Professor of Special Education | 912-478-1268 | 4130 College of Education Building | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Elementary & Special Education | Dr. Karin Fisher is an Associate Professor of Special Education at Georgia Southern University, where she leads both undergraduate and graduate courses, supports field supervision, and contributes extensively to service and scholarship in her field. With a Ph.D. from the University of Central Florida, Dr. Fisher’s research primarily examines the impact of STEM extracurricular activities on students with disabilities and explores effective teacher preparation strategies. She is a Fulbright Specialist, an active participant in the Georgia Council of Exceptional Children, and a published author in notable journals on special education. Her work is recognized through multiple awards, including the University Award of Excellence for Academics. | Teaching PhilosophyDr. Karin Fisher’s teaching philosophy centers on modeling evidence-based practices, particularly explicit instruction and the gradual release method. She guides students through structured steps—"I do, we do, you do"—to promote skill mastery and independent application. Dr. Fisher incorporates technology, classroom simulations, and service learning to create engaging, real-world learning experiences. Known for her high expectations and rigorous feedback, she supports her students' growth through consistent practice, high standards, and scaffolded support, preparing them to excel as future educators of students with disabilities. |
| Graduate Certificate in Severe and Profound Disabilities and Autism | Research Interests
| Special Education Law | |||||||||
| Emuhammad@georgiasouthern.edu | https://works.bepress.com/edward-a-muhammad/ | E. Anthony | Muhammad | Assistant Professor of Educational Research | 912-478-1547 | College of Education Building, Rm 3134 | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Curriculum, Foundations & Reading | E. Anthony Muhammad is an Assistant Professor of Educational Research and affiliate faculty in the department of Africana studies at Georgia Southern University. His research interests include Black Existential Philosophy, the phenomenology of Black embodiment, philosophical hermeneutics, the intersection of racial and religious alterity, and qualitative inquiries into the Nation of Islam. E. Anthony holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Southern University and A&M College (a Historically Black College/University), a Master’s degree in I/O Psychology from the University of Baltimore, and a Ph.D. in Qualitative Research Methodologies from the University of Georgia. | Teaching PhilosophyIn keeping with the ever-changing educational landscape, my pedagogical styles have varied from face to face to online instruction. Though I thoroughly enjoy traditional classroom instruction and having direct interactions with my students, I am cognizant that online pedagogical methods continue to proliferate in academic departments throughout the nation. Therefore, I have been fortunate to gain invaluable experience in both academic settings. Given the diversity of students, it is my notion that faculty should present information in ways that are clear and exhilarating to the student. As a result, I pride myself on being a student’s professor who's always available to further their intellectual growth. |
| M.S., University of Baltimore, 2006 | B.S., Southern University and A&M College, 1997 | Research Interests
| Critical Race Theory/Racial Realism | Afropessimism | Africana Phenomenology | Racial and Religious Alterity | |||||
| rarogers@georgiasouthern.edu | Rebecca Ansley | Thompson-Rogers | Assistant Professor of Literacy | 912-478-5300 | College of Education | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Curriculum, Foundations & Reading | With over two decades in the field of education, I have a deep commitment to equipping future educators with effective, research-based practices for reading/literacy classrooms. | Teaching PhilosophyI focus on evidence-based literacy practices that support diverse learners through engaging classroom instruction and hands-on teaching practices. I also believe in partnership-based teaching and service activities to ensure students' success. |
| Ed.S., Georgia Southern University, 2005 | M.Ed, Georgia Southern University, 2003 | BSED, Georgia Southern University, 2002 | Research Interests
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| jherrington@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=Lmk0dU0AAAAJ&hl=en | Joshua | Herrington | Assistant Professor of Psychology | 912-344-2767 | Science Center 229 | Armstrong Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Psychology | Joshua Herrington has a broad interest in developmental neurobiology and behavior. His research program explores the behavioral effects and biological mechanisms of early life experiences on behavior and physiology across the lifespan. He has conducted research in perceptual development, learning, and epidemiology in both human and non-human animal models including birds, non-human primates, and rodents. Currently, he and his collaborators are exploring the link between prenatal and early postnatal exposure to oxidative stress and a broad range of developmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder. | Teaching PhilosophyAs an educator, Joshua Herrington employs high-impact practices and didactic learning in his classes. He has experience teaching general, physiological, cognitive, emotional, health, and developmental psychology, as well as research methods. |
| M.S. in Psychology - Florida International University | PhD in Psychology - Florida International University | Postdoctoral Fellow - University of California Davis | Research Interests
| Comparative Animal Research | Biomedical Research | ||||||
| ybodur@georgiasouthern.edu | Yasar | Bodur | Professor and Interim Associate Dean | 912-478-7285 | COE 4138 | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Elementary & Special Education | Yasar Bodur is a Professor of Elementary Education. He received his graduate degrees in Elementary Education from Florida State University. He has worked at Georgia Southern University since August 2006 in different capacities, including faculty, department chair, and interim Associate Dean. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy is based on the idea of presenting relevant information to learners in engaging, authentic, and student-centered ways. |
| Master of Science in Elementary Education, Florida State University, 1998 | Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, Gazi University, 1993 | Research Interests
| Diversity issues in teacher education | Structure of field experiences in teacher education | ||||||||
| chodges@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/charles-b-hodges-2 | Charles B. | Hodges | Professor of Instructional Technology | 912-478-0497 | 3112 College of Education Building | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Leadership, Technology & Human Development | Dr. Hodges earned his B.S. and M.S. degrees in Mathematics from Fairmont State University and West Virginia University, respectively, followed by a Ph.D. from the Instructional Design and Technology program in the School of Education at Virginia Tech. He served as Editor-in-Chief of the AECT journal TechTrends from 2014 until 2024, and had edited/co-edited two Springer books: Self-Efficacy in Instructional Technology Contexts and; Emerging Research, Practice, and Policy on Computational Thinking. His research instructional technology, with a focus on self-efficacy, online learning, and the integration of technology in education. | Teaching PhilosophyDr. Charles B. Hodges’ teaching philosophy centers on fostering self-efficacy and leveraging the systematic process of instructional design to create effective, efficient, and enjoyable learning environments. He believes in empowering students through the development of their confidence in their abilities, particularly in online and technology-enhanced settings. By integrating emerging learning technologies and evidence-informed practices from the learning sciences, Dr. Hodges aims to enhance student motivation, engagement, and achievement. His approach is characterized by a commitment to continuous improvement and reflective practice, ensuring that students find their learning experiences relevant and impactful. |
| M.S., West Virginia University, 1992 | B.S., Fairmont State University, 1990 | Research Interests
| Self-efficacy | Online Learning | Emerging Learning Technologies | Instructional Design | |||||
| aunal@georgiasouthern.edu | Aslihan | Unal | Professor | 912-478-5441 | 4135 College of Education Building | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Elementary & Special Education | Dr. Aslihan Unal is a professor at Georgia Southern University, where she has been teaching in the Department of Elementary and Special Education since 2013. Her program, Curriculum and Instruction -Accomplished Teaching is fully online and designed for K-12 teachers pursuing their master's degrees. Some of her research interests include assessment in education, the flipped classroom, parental involvement, artificial intelligence in K-12 classrooms, diversity, case studies, and technology usage in education. She also serves on various departmental, college, and university-level committees, such as the Elections Committee, departmental and college-level Tenure and Promotion Committee, and the Faculty Development Committee. | Teaching PhilosophyAs an educator, I prioritize mastery learning, formative feedback, and continuous improvement to foster rich learning experiences, promoting academic and personal growth. I make myself available, adopt a mastery-learning approach, and model pedagogy and content knowledge. I stay updated through conferences and research, informing my teaching and ensuring students receive high-quality instruction. |
| Research Interests
| Assessment in Education | Technology in Education | Diversity | Classroom Management | ||||||||
| ldroberts@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/leslie-d-roberts-2 | Leslie | Roberts-Chala | Dr. | 912-344-2506 | 209 | Armstrong Campus | College of Education | Department of Curriculum, Foundations & Reading | Leslie D. Roberts-Chala is an associate professor of reading in the Department of Curriculum, Foundations, and Reading in the College of Education at Georgia Southern University – Armstrong Campus in Savannah, Georgia. Her research focuses on reading motivation for students across grade levels, content areas, and ability levels through the use of discussion and book clubs. | Teaching PhilosophyAs a motivation researcher, my teaching philosophy has always been closely aligned to the tenets of engagement and meaningful learning for all students. Therefore, a cornerstone of my teaching philosophy is the belief that literacy has the potential to transcend various cultures and backgrounds to create an equitable learning environment. Despite the fluidity of my philosophy of teaching, I focus on three primary components: the importance of providing engaging instruction, remaining mindful of equitable instruction rooted in social justice, and ensuring students have the requisite tools to be successful. |
| M.Ed & B.A. Elementary Education; The University of Florida | Research Interests
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| aleckie@georgiasouthern.edu | Alisa | Leckie | Assistant Dean of Partnerships and Outreach; Professor of English Learner Education | 912-663-0832 | University Hall - 268 | Armstrong Campus | College of Education | Department of Middle Grades & Secondary Education | Alisa Leckie is a Professor at Georgia Southern University and Assistant Dean for Partnerships and Outreach. Her work focuses on the education of culturally and linguistically diverse students and adolescent literacy. Currently she is working with local school districts to help them address the growing numbers of English learners in their classrooms through collaborative coaching and the modification of materials and assessments for emergent English learners. She also leads the Eagle E.D.G.E. program (Professional Development Schools, Paid Residency, Apprenticeships, and Return to Home). Prior to moving to Georgia, Alisa taught Language Arts, Spanish Language Arts and ESL for 18 years at a middle school in southern Arizona. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy is grounded in the dual roles of language and cultural competence in the teaching/learning process. I believe that learning happens through language. When students are producing language related to the content, they strengthen their understanding of those content concepts. Additionally, I believe it is essential that students develop an understanding of how language is used to construct and represent knowledge in different disciplines and across different cultures. |
| Research Interests
| Recruiting and retaining quality educators | |||||||||||
| mamos@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/michelle-amos | Michelle | Amos | Assistant Professor, Reading | College of Education 2101 | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Curriculum, Foundations & Reading | Michelle L. Amos is a graduate of the AEGIS program at Teachers College, Columbia University. She has nearly three decades of teaching experience, working with students from sixth grade through graduate school in four different states. She has worked with academically, linguistically, and culturally diverse students in rural, urban, and suburban settings. She is an Assistant Professor of Reading, working with both graduate and undergraduate students online and at the Statesboro campus. | Teaching PhilosophyMy core belief is that education is the purest form of social justice. I recognize that the ability to read and understand the complex world we share is essential for a productive and fulfilled life. I seek to make a difference in the lives of students by engaging them where they are, building the skills they need, and supporting them in realizing their potential. I hope to foster a non-judgmental openness to others’ lived experiences, which is vital for personal, professional, and academic growth. I have found that students will return the passion, compassion, and support that is invested in them. |
| M.A.Ed., Teachers College, Columbia University, 2011 | M.Ed., University of Florida, 1996 | B.A., University of Florida, 1995 | Research Interests
| Scholarship of Teaching and Learning | Literacy Development | Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Learners | ||||||
| jhkim@georgiasouthern.edu | Jackie | Kim | Professor | 912-344-2707 | UH 264 | Armstrong Campus | College of Education | Department of Leadership, Technology & Human Development | Dr. Jackie HeeYoung Kim has extensive experiences providing professional development workshops for Georgia teachers through the Teacher Quality Grant and other statewide initiatives. Her research interests include technology self-efficacy, K-12 teacher professional development in differentiated instruction, flipped learning in K-8 and higher education, faculty scholarship development, computational thinking, digital distraction, generative AI in higher education, and online learning pedagogy. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy centers on listening to students’ needs and feedback to tailor instruction. By communicating about class progress and incorporating their suggestions, I meet diverse needs and develop materials suited to their learning styles and pace. Understanding their skill levels and systematically analyzing tasks ensures effective and personalized teaching. |
| M.A., University of Houston | B.A., Korean Chonnam National University | Research Interests
| generative AI in higher education | online learning pedagogy | digital distraction | computational thinking | ||||||
| rrahimi@georgiasouthern.edu | Regina | Rahimi | Professor | 912-344-2949 | University Hall 210, Armstrong Campus | Armstrong Campus | College of Education | Department of Middle Grades & Secondary Education | Served as a public school teacher for 15 years before joining Armstrong faculty in 2006. My current research interests include models of clinical practice in teacher preparation; social-emotional learning; SoTL in online educational spaces and teacher retention. | Teaching PhilosophyAs an instructor, it is my goal to support and encourage student inquiry and success. |
| Ed.S. Georgia Southern University, 1996 | M.Ed., Georgia Southern University 1994 | B.S.Ed. Armstrong State College, 1992 | Research Interests
| Teacher Retention | SoTL in online environments | trauma-informed practice | ||||||
| kent_r@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/kent-a-rittschof-2 | Kent | Rittschof | Professor of Educational Psychology | 912-478-0672 | College of Education Building 3127 | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Curriculum, Foundations & Reading | Kent Rittschof is a Professor of Educational Psychology and Chair of the Department of Curriculum, Foundations, and Reading. His expertise is in learning, cognition, psychological measurement, and psychological foundations of education. His recent research has emphasized contemporary measurement approaches for examining student attitudes, cognitive abilities, and quantitative reasoning in science. Prior to serving as department head, he served his institution as interim Director for Faculty Development and the Center for Excellence in Teaching, and as Assessment Coordinator for the College of Education. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy is one of caring and eclecticism in support of students making, creating, exploring, finding, and discovering connections among ideas, motivations, and solutions. |
| Research Interests
| Human Learning | STEM Education | |||||||||
| abossler@georgiasouthern.edu | Adam | Bossler | Professor of Criminal Justice & Criminology | 912-344-2526 | University Hall 249 | Armstrong Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Criminal Justice & Criminology | Dr. Adam M. Bossler's research primarily focuses on examining the application of traditional criminological theories to various forms of cybercrime offending and victimization and the law enforcement response to cybercrime. His research has been funded by the National Science Foundation, Bureau of Justice Assistance, and the United Kingdom Home Office. He is a co-author of three books: Cybercrime and Digital Forensics: An Introduction, 2nd edition (Routledge); Cybercrime in Progress: Theory and Prevention of Technology-Enabled Offenses (Routledge) (winner of the 2017 Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences’ International Section Outstanding Book Award); and Policing Cybercrime and Cyberterror (Carolina Academic Press). | Teaching PhilosophyDr. Bossler teaches undergraduate and graduate courses on cybercrime. He wants all students to be able to understand the ever growing impact of technology on all aspects of society, including crime. He thinks that CRJU 1210 Introduction to Cybercrime should be a mandatory class for all Georgia Southern students. |
| M.S., Illinois State University, 2000 | B.S., Truman State University, 1998 | Research Interests
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| aschueths@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=AD1yEJYAAAAJ&hl=en | April M. | Schueths | Professor of Sociology | 912-478-2368 | Carroll 1060 | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Sociology & Anthropology | April M. Schueths, Ph.D., LCSW, is a sociology professor at Georgia Southern University. She holds a Ph.D. in Sociology and a Master of Social Work from the University of Nebraska. Dr. Schueths teaches courses in social services/human services within sociology, including child welfare, social welfare policy, counseling skills, human behavior in the social environment, and internships. Her research primarily addresses social inequality and social policy, child welfare and family, immigration and intersectionality, and community health, often with a focus on rural contexts. Much of her work is qualitative, interdisciplinary, and involves collaboration with students. | Teaching PhilosophyTeaching is a privilege; therefore, I understand the immense responsibility of the students I encounter daily, whether as their professor or mentor. As a dedicated teacher-scholar, I create a challenging, supportive, and collaborative learning environment where students actively engage in their learning process, preparing for future careers. As a reflective teacher, I am constantly modifying and changing my courses and improving and updating my skills to best prepare my students for the applied and scholarly world ahead. An excellent sociology class empowers students to use the course materials in their community and work to improve it. |
| Master of Social Work (MSW), University of Nebraska | Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Georgia | Research Interests
| Stratification | Community Health | Qualitative Research | ||||||
| jmcbrayer@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/coe/about/directory/dr-juliann-mcbrayer/ | Juliann | McBrayer | Associate Professor | 912-478-7104 | College of Education 3108 | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Leadership, Technology & Human Development | Juliann Sergi McBrayer, Ed.D. is an Associate Professor and Co-Director of the National Youth Advocacy and Resilience Research Center at Georgia Southern University. She also serves as the Program Director for the Educational Leadership master’s and educational specialist programs. She has served 20 years as an educational leadership associate/assistant professor, educational program coordinator, instructional school leader, professional development and federal programs coordinator, classroom teacher and teacher leader. | Teaching PhilosophyMy educational leadership and teaching philosophy when working with students is to bridge research, theory, and practice, as I prepare educational leaders. As a scholarly practitioner my work is intended to support community and school improvement through evidence-based practices and strong P-20 partnerships. |
| Ed.S., Education Specialist, Educational Leadership, Georgia Southern University | M.Ed., Master of Education, Secondary Education in Science, Ohio University | B.A., Bachelor of Arts, Biology, State University of New York College at Buffalo | A.A.S., Associate of Applied Science, Culinary Arts, Johnson & Wales University | Research Interests
| Purposeful, Collaborative, and Sustainable Professional Learning | Community and School Safety | Youth Advocacy and Restorative Justice | Mental Health and Well-Being | National Youth Advocacy and Resilience Research Center | ||
| ehogan@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?hl=en&user=My4iE_wAAAAJ&view_op=list_works&sortby=pubdate | Eric | Hogan | Assistant Professor | 912-478-8522 | 2134 College of Education Building | Armstrong Campus, Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Curriculum, Foundations & Reading | I grew up in Virginia Beach, VA. I graduated with my Bachelor's in Psychology from James Madison University in 2011. I then received my PhD in Educational Psychology from Auburn University in 2018. During my time in graduate school, I had the unique opportunity to build and construct school gardens to enhance student learning. In 2020, I started as an Assistant Professor at Georgia Southern University. Aside from my education and professional background, I try to always find a good hike and pet as many dogs as possible. | Teaching PhilosophyWith an educational psychology background, I teach primarily courses focusing on learning theories, motivation, development, and assessment. These four areas help provide a foundation for undergraduate and graduate students wanting to improve their craft as educators and practitioners. I want my students to have a worthwhile experience that betters them currently and for their futures. In any course I teach, I incorporate three core principles. These include: 1) creating community, 2) culturally responsive pedagogy, and 3) impactful assignments. |
| Bachelor's in Psychology, James Madison University | Research Interests
| Reflective Practice | Social Processes in Community | ||||||||
| abrunson@georgiasouthern.edu | Alicia | Brunson | Brunson | 912-344-3469 | 223 University Hall | Armstrong Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Sociology & Anthropology | Dr. Alicia Brunson earned her Ph.D. from the University of North Texas in Sociology with a secondary concentration in Film Studies in 2013. She is an associate professor in the Sociology & Anthropology department. She teaches courses on race and ethnicity and uses an intersectional perspective to examine institutional inequalities. Her research explores students' racial ideologies and race-talk, Black student persistence at HWCUs (Historically White Colleges and Universities), and the politics of representation in creative industries. | Teaching PhilosophyDr. Brunson's teaching philosophy centers on three core principles: listen, learn, and love. She creates an inclusive environment by acknowledging diverse learning styles and focusing on students' strengths. Through experiential learning and engaged pedagogy, students develop their sociological imagination by applying theory to real-world situations. She integrates community-based projects and participatory research, enabling students to create practical solutions while working with local organizations. Her commitment extends beyond the classroom through mentorship in professional development, preparing students for non-profit careers and graduate programs while encouraging them to use sociology to build more equitable communities. |
| B.S. 2005. Psychology and American Ethnic Studies. Kansas State University | Research Interests
| Black student retention | Politics of representation in creative industries | White spaces | ||||||||
| rmccurdy@georgiasouthern.edu | Regina Patrice | McCurdy | Assistant Professor | 912-478-5614 | College of Education Building - Room 4116 | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Middle Grades & Secondary Education | Regina Patrice McCurdy is an Assistant Professor of Science Education in the Middle Grades and Secondary Education Department. Dr. McCurdy teaches undergraduate and graduate courses on the Statesboro campus and online. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy is oriented around developing equitable, relevant, culturally responsive, and interactive science learning environments. I believe that all learners, especially those who have been historically marginalized because of their culture, ethnicity, and/or language, should be able to see themselves positively represented in the story of science and feel as though they belong in and have something significant to contribute to science and other STEM fields. To this end, I prepare preservice and in-service science teachers to utilize problem-based learning approaches and STEM integration as pathways to connect science to learners’ real lives. |
| Ed.S., University of Central Florida, 2018 | M.A., Asbury Theological Seminary, 2007 | B.S., Florida State University, 1999 | Research Interests
| Culturally Relevant & Culturally Responsive Science Teaching | Science Identity/Science Teaching Identity Development | Problem-based Learning | STEM & Empathy | |||||
| kbrkich@georgiasouthern.edu | Katie | Brkich | Professor | 912-478-7689 | 4141 College of Education Building | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Elementary & Special Education | Dr. Katie Brkich is a professor of elementary science and has been at Georgia Southern since 2011. Her teaching focuses on preparing elementary teachers to teach science in age-appropriate ways using 3D science instruction that also promote culturally sustaining pedagogies and using students’ funds of knowledge. Her scholarship focuses on similar ideas, but extends beyond practice to theory and policy. | Teaching PhilosophyI believe that effective science instruction in elementary classrooms should be grounded in an “explore before explain” approach, allowing students to investigate and ask questions before introducing formal concepts. By centering inquiry-based learning, I encourage students to discover through hands-on exploration, making learning both active and personally meaningful. I view each student as a reservoir of rich cultural experiences and knowledge, which I aim to incorporate into the classroom environment. Embracing a culturally sustaining pedagogy, I strive to honor and integrate students’ diverse backgrounds, fostering an inclusive space where every child can see themselves as a scientist, capable of curiosity, discovery, and contribution. |
| M.Ed., University of Florida, Elementary Education | B.S., University of South Florida, Environmental Science and Policy | Research Interests
| Inquiry-based science teaching and learning | Science for social justice | ||||||||
| acarreon@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/scholar?hl=en&as_sdt=0%2C11&q=adam+carreon&btnG=&oq=adam | Adam | Carreon | Assistant Professor | 912-478-5208 | 4108 | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Elementary & Special Education | Adam Carreon is an assistant professor of special education in the Department of Elementary and Special Education at Georgia Southern University. Carreon is an alum of University of Kansas and Northern Illinois University (2x). He is a former educator from the northern Illinois region where he taught elementary and high school special education He specializes in instructional design, technology, and innovation for the classroom. Carreon’s research interests include the use of emerging technology to provide effective instructional, adaptive and social emotional intervention and assistance. Specifically, the use of extended realities, 360-video, and artificial intelligence to enhance the classroom for students with disabilities. | Teaching PhilosophyGrounded by integrating choice and options, my teaching is focused on (a) providing students relevant and real-world practice, (b) integrating meaningful and current technology, and (c) building rapport. |
| MS.Ed Advanced Special Education, Northern Illinois University | B.A. Special Education, Northern Illinois University | Research Interests
| Immersive Technology | Assistive Technology | Instructional Design | Extended Reality | |||||
| acarter@georgiasouthern.edu | Ashley | Carter | Ms. | 912-478-5648 | COE 4142 | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Elementary & Special Education | Ashley Carter is a dedicated educator and proud alum of Charleston Southern University and Augusta University, where she focused on educational leadership. Currently, Ashley teaches undergraduate courses at the Statesboro campus as an Elementary Education instructor. With a passion for guiding future educators, she also engages in pre-service teacher supervision, ensuring that aspiring teachers are well-prepared to enter the classroom with confidence and skill. | Teaching PhilosophyI believe in fostering an engaging and inclusive learning environment where every student has the opportunity to thrive. My goal is to nurture the growth of future educators by providing the support and encouragement they need to become outstanding teachers. I am committed to inspiring each of my students to reach their full potential, contributing to a future where classrooms are welcoming, dynamic, and supportive spaces for all learners. |
| M.Ed, Augusta University, 2022 | BSEd, Charleston Southern University, 2011 | Research Interests
| Classroom Culture and Management Strategies | |||||||||
| jschreiber@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/joanna-schreiber-2 | Joanna | Schreiber | Associate Professor of Technical and Professional Communication | 912-478-5908 | Newton 2222-C | Statesboro Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of English | Joanna Schreiber teaches plain language and accessibility; usability and user experience (UX); information design; technical and professional editing; technical communication; and business writing courses at the undergraduate and graduate levels . Dr. Schreiber’s research interests include trends in professional and technical editing; accessible and inclusive information design and UX; project management communication and genres; and efficiency management communication and genres. Her research has been published in IEEE Transactions on Professional Communication, Journal of Technical Writing and Communication, Technical Communication, Technical Communication Quarterly, and other peer-reviewed journals and collections. | Teaching PhilosophyThe primary goal of technical communication theories and practices is to serve audiences by making complex information meaningful, engaging, accessible, and useful. In the classroom, these theories and practices serve as a toolkit for students to critically engage current best practices in content development and curation in order to prepare them to develop effective user experiences and the best practices of the future. |
| Research Interests
| Performance assessment genres | Project management genres | Technical editing | ||||||||
| lwiggins@georgiasouthern.edu | Lori | Wiggins | Administrative Assistant II | 912-478-5204 | COE 4127 | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Curriculum, Foundations & Reading, Department of Elementary & Special Education, Department of Leadership, Technology & Human Development, Department of Middle Grades & Secondary Education | I am currently a student at Georgia Southern University. Getting my degree in Interdisciplinary Studies. | |||||||||||||||
| kharris@georgiasouthern.edu | https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3276-6927 | Kymberly | Harris | Associate Professor | 912-478-5041 | COE 4112 | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Elementary & Special Education | Dr. Harris earned her PhD in Interdisciplinary Teacher Preparation from the University of Alabama. She is the program director of the MEd in Curriculum & Instruction and teaches undergraduate courses in special education | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy is rooted in creating an inclusive, student-centered environment that prepares future educators to be reflective and equity-driven. In special education, I guide undergraduates in applying inquiry-based approaches to real-world challenges while embedding research to foster a strong foundation in evidence-based practices. As director of a large online graduate program, I prioritize accessible, rigorous coursework encouraging reflective practice and professional growth. |
| MEd, Special Education, University of Alabama | Research Interests
| Classroom climate | Positive behavior supports | instructional coaching | Curriculum design | ||||||
| thinchman@georgiasouthern.edu | Timothy | Hinchman | Assistant Professor | 912-478-0489 | University Hall 203 | Armstrong Campus, Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Elementary & Special Education | My educational journey includes degrees in criminology from Florida State University, where I worked with youthful offenders in the criminal justice system. This experience motivated me to transition to teaching, where I discovered my passion for curriculum design. I earned my Master's in Educational Leadership and Doctorate in Education from the University of West Florida after teaching interdisciplinary content for 15 years. I conduct quasi-experiments to enhance creativity and athletic performance. A comic-book enthusiast, especially of Batman, I am combining my love for pop culture with STEM/STEAM education, aspiring to present my research at a major Comic Con. | Teaching PhilosophyI believe education is a fluid process that nurtures personal growth, emphasizing critical and creative thinking skills. Classrooms should be enjoyable spaces where students can explore their interests and develop organically. My teaching philosophy centers on the individual student, prioritizing their mental health and personal growth. I offer meaningful experiences, providing constructive feedback and encouraging self-reflection. Ultimately, my role is to facilitate growth, tailoring my approach to meet each student's unique needs, which is essential for their development. |
| Specialist in Education- University of West Florida | Master's in Educational Leadership- University of West Florida | Master's of Science Criminology- Florida State University | Bachelor's of Science Criminology- Florida State University | Research Interests
| Constraint Manipulation | Science Education | Athletic Performance | |||||
| dderlic@georgiasouthern.edu | Dragana | Derlic | Assistant Professor | 912-478-0469 | Carroll 1065 | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Criminal Justice & Criminology | Dragana Derlic is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology at Georgia Southern University. Dragana’s primary research focuses largely on corrections, jail and prison programming, program evaluation, and the use of mixed methods. Her research has been published in the Journal of Correctional Healthcare, Crime & Delinquency, and the Journal of Applied Juvenile Justice Services. Dragana has taught a variety of undergraduate courses and considers pedagogy an important part of her scholarly career. | Teaching PhilosophyAs an educator, Dragana is committed to fostering a dynamic and inclusive learning environment that empowers students to reach their fullest potential. Dragana's teaching philosophy centers on three key principles: accessibility, creativity, and student engagement. Through these principles, Dragana aim's to inspire a passion for knowledge, equip students with essential skills, and encourage a mindset of continuous growth. |
| M.S., Criminal Justice (2015) Wayne State University | B.S., Criminal Justice (2012) Wayne State University | Research Interests
| Offender Rehabilitation | Mixed-Methods | ||||||||
| sross@georgiasouthern.edu | https://works.bepress.com/sabrina-ross/ | Sabrina | Ross | Professor | 912-478-0696 | COE 2133, University Hall 268 | Armstrong Campus, Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Curriculum, Foundations & Reading | Sabrina Ross, PhD is a Professor of Educational Research at Georgia Southern University. Her scholarship involves intersections of race, gender, and power within formal and informaleducational contexts. Recent publications have explored these topics through critical geographical and Black feminist lenses. Included in her published works are articles in Educational Foundations, Educational Studies, The International Journal of the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning, The Journal of African American Males in Education, and Teaching in Higher Education. | Teaching PhilosophyI teach in order to participate in efforts that I believe will make the world better. My pedagogy focuses on transformative learning and social justice education and is based on the work of scholars and activists who have articulated differences between schooling and education (e.g., Freire, 2001).One of the most important things that I can do as an educator is foster a learning space within which students are provided opportunities for critical thinking and addressing real-world problems within community. |
| MS, Educational Research, Georgia State University | MS, Human Development and Family Studies, The University of North Carolina at Greensboro | Research Interests
| Critical Geography | Contributions of Black Feminist and Womanist Theorizing to Educational Praxis | Urban Education | ||||||
| cmarvil@georgiasouthern.edu | Charles | Marvil | Senior Lecturer | 912-478-2259 | 1108 Parker College of Business Building | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Management | Charles Marvil is a senior lecturer at Georgia Southern University, where he teaches senior-level courses in the College of Business, specializing in Strategic Management and the Hospitality Management curriculum. Known for his dedication to practical, technology-focused teaching, he emphasizes critical thinking and hands-on applications, preparing students for the evolving demands of the hospitality and business sectors. Charles has a diverse research background, with current interests in customer perceptions of generative AI in the quick service restaurant industry. Outside the classroom, he is a mentor for the Hospitality Club and enjoys exposing his students to the world of hospitality. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy centers on fostering critical thinking, practical application, and student engagement to prepare learners for real-world challenges in business and hospitality. I believe education should be active and interactive, encouraging students to step beyond theoretical knowledge and explore how concepts apply to practical scenarios they may encounter in their careers. In my classes, I emphasize experiential learning through structured group activities, case studies, and hands-on projects, all designed to cultivate problem-solving skills and a collaborative mindset. I see my role as a guide, empowering students to ask insightful questions, analyze complex issues, and make decisions grounded in strategic frameworks |
| M.Sc. Auburn University, 2015 | Research Interests
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| awall@georgiasouthern.edu | Amanda | Wall | Professor | 912-478-9532 | College of Education 4132 | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Middle Grades & Secondary Education | Amanda Wall is a professor in the Department of Middle Grades and Secondary Education. | Teaching PhilosophyDocendo Discimus - By teaching, we learn. |
| M.A.T., University of Massachusetts, Amherst | A.B., Brown University | Research Interests
| interdisciplinary & integrated curriculum | adolescent literacy | ||||||||
| ctoledo@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/courtney-toledo-2 | Courtney | Toledo | Instructor of Elementary and Special Education | 770-912-0714 | College of Education, 4107 | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Elementary & Special Education | Courtney Toledo has over 14 years of experience teaching elementary students with disabilities and college-aged students pursuing their initial teaching certification in elementary and special education. Her research interests include preparing pre-service teachers for collaborating with families, including their involvement in IEP meetings, as well as pre-service teacher self-efficacy and well-being. | Teaching PhilosophyMy beliefs about teaching are rooted in my experience as a student, combined with the characteristics I have admired from the educators in my life who have made a difference, and from what I have learned as an educator of fourteen years. One of the key tenets that guides my teaching philosophy is the belief that learning is socially constructed. Everyone within a given learning space holds equal responsibility for the learning that occurs. I aim to engage students in learning through experience to co-create knowledge. Learning must be hands-on and collaborative. As a learning community, my students and I construct knowledge together. |
| M.Ed, Georgia State University | BS.Ed, Georgia Southern University | Research Interests
| Preparing pre-service teachers for IEP meetings | Pre-service teacher self-efficacy | Pre-service and in-service teacher well-being | ||||||
| bnafziger@georgiasouthern.edu | Bailey | Nafziger | Assistant Professor | 912-478-2212 | COE 4140 | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Elementary & Special Education | Bailey Nafziger began her career in K-12 public education as a middle school science teacher and elementary school gifted specialist in both urban and rural settings. After earning her EdD in May 2022, Bailey joined the College of Education at Georgia Southern University. Her professional interests include science education and gifted education professional learning for teachers. | Teaching Philosophy |
| M.A., Northern Arizona University, 2017 | B.S., The College of St. Scholastica, 2012 | Research Interests
| Gifted Education Professional Learning | Social Justice | Engineering | Critical Thinking | ||||||
| cfiori@georgiasouthern.edu | Celeste | Fiori | Assistant Professor of Counselor Education | 912-478-0502 | College of Education 2110 | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Leadership, Technology & Human Development | In addition to her role as an assistant professor, Dr. Celeste A. Fiori, LPC, NCC is a mental health counselor. She focuses on relationship-based interventions that utilize strength-based approaches to address the needs of children, caregivers, and families who have experienced traumatic events. Celeste is passionate about intervention-based research that directly benefits underserved groups through the application of humanistic and systemic frameworks. Additionally, Celeste has a particular passion working with pediatric medical trauma and equipping medical settings to support children and their families’ post-traumatic events. | Teaching PhilosophyStudents carry a sense of curiosity, wonder, and drive to grow into their own potential. I view learning as a continuous process that needs to be nurtured and assessed to guide students on their self-learning journey. My role is to exhibit cultural sensitivity, dedication to diversity, and empathic understanding towards all learners. I prioritize being present in the moment to establish collaborative relationships with my students. Listening conveys a sense of being heard and acknowledged while collaboration invites the student’s individual process into the space. It is where self-discovery is honored, and the learning process can expand. |
| M.A., Northwestern University, 2019 | B.S., Psychology, UNC Charlotte, 2017 | Research Interests
| Parent-child relationship | Mental health | ||||||||
| abrady@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/anna-c-brady-2 | Anna | Brady | Assistant Professor of Educational Psychology | 912-478-5921 | Education Building 2129 | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Curriculum, Foundations & Reading | Anna C. Brady is an Assistant Professor of Educational Psychology in the Department of Curriculum, Foundations, and Reading. Brady’s research explores students’ academic outcomes through the lens of motivation and self-regulated learning. She is particularly interested in identifying interventions and instructional approaches that support self-regulated learning, with the ultimate goal of enhancing engagement, learning, and achievement. She is especially interested in the impact of these interventions in STEM contexts. Brady currently serves on the editorial board of the Journal of Experimental Education and the executive board of the American Educational Research Association Teaching of Educational Psychology Special Interest Group. | Teaching Philosophy |
| M.A. in Educational Psychology from The Ohio State University | B.S. in Psychology from Florida State University | Research Interests
| Motivation | National Youth Advocacy and Resilience Research Center | |||||||
| jjsmith@georgiasouthern.edu | Janel | Smith - Please list name as Smith, Janel Janiczek | Senior Lecturer | 912-344-3249 | University Hall, #270 | Armstrong Campus | College of Education | Department of Middle Grades & Secondary Education | Dr. Janel Janiczek Smith, is a senior lecturer in the Department of Middle Grades and Secondary Education at Georgia Southern University. Dr. Smith has an educational background in mathematics and elementary education from the University of Pittsburgh and received her doctorate in 2013 in the field of Curriculum Studies. After teaching for nine years in public elementary and middle schools in Georgia, she transitioned to higher education. She has taught in both undergraduate and graduate level courses in curriculum, math education methods, and embedding literacy into content areas. In addition, she supervises students within field placements throughout the region. | Teaching PhilosophyDr. Smith's philosophy centers on the student as an active and involved participant in the learning process. Her instructional strategies focus on active participation in recognition of best practices while reflecting on classroom application through video observations. Dr. Smith continues to develop her teacher identity along students by actively exploring their positions as teachers and learners within changing places and spaces, both within the classroom walls and the community. |
| M.A.T., University of Pittsburgh, 2006 | Ed.D., Georgia Southern University, 2013 | Research Interests
| Adult learners | Teacher preparation | First Generation Students and Supports | |||||||
| sgsmith@georgiasouthern.edu | Sharon | Gilliard-Smith | Assistant Professor | 912-344-2986 | Ashmore Hall Suite 154 | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Department of Clinical Science | I am a Registered Radiographer who worked at a Level One Trauma Center in Savannah and began my teaching career in 1999. As the two careers paths overlapped, I am a Registered Radiographer for over 44 years and as an educator for over 23 years. I am married; I have two children and four grandchildren. We also have three grand dogs (Jack, Rudy, and Rocky). With each year that passes, I have come to appreciate family time much more than I did as a younger adult. I love sports particularly basketball, football, baseball, almost all of the summer Olympics and tennis. I am very active in my church as well as throughout community and to devoting time to numerous Community Service projects. | Teaching PhilosophyLearning is a process by which a person gains information and understanding of a study or experience. There is a saying that says “Lead by example. Leading by example simply implies that one is being watched and observed. The individual is an example for someone else to pattern their behavior after. Education is a formal means to promote learning. A structured classroom setting is set up for the individual to learn. British novelist Williams A. Ward was once quoted as saying “The mediocre teacher tells. The good teacher explains. The superior teacher demonstrates. The great teacher inspires.” This statement reminds me of a very vivid image of a small bird who is just learning to fly. |
| Master of Health Science-Armstrong Atlantic State University-1999 | Bachelor of Health Science-Armstrong State College-1996 | Registered Radiologic Technologist-1979 | Online Teaching Certification | Research Interests
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| amoldavan@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/alesia-moldavan/publications/ | Alesia | Moldavan | Assistant Professor of Elementary Mathematics and Science Education | 912-344-2809 | University Hall, Room 266 | Armstrong Campus | College of Education | Department of Elementary & Special Education | Alesia Mickle Moldavan, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor of Elementary Mathematics and Science Education in the College of Education at Georgia Southern University. Previously, she taught at diverse Title I schools in Georgia as a secondary mathematics instructor and served as an elementary STEM Saturday Enrichment program instructor. She designs and implements various STEM professional development focused on ethnomathematics, social justice, and robotics. Her research interests include equitable teaching practices, culturally responsive pedagogy, and the use of digital technology in teacher education. Her recent work focuses on developing innovative curricula in teacher education promoting cultural awareness and justice-oriented advocacy. | Teaching PhilosophyDr. Moldavan teaches elementary mathematics and science methods courses for preservice and in-service teachers, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in diverse, high-needs schools. Her teaching emphasizes research-based evidence and hands-on project-based learning, integrating best teaching practices, culturally responsive instruction, and effective technology use (e.g., simulations, robotics, AI). Her goal is to foster meaningful learning experiences while developing teachers who can assess students’ strengths and areas for growth, cultivate positive STEM identities, and serve as ethical advocates and agents of change for all learners. |
| Qualitative Research Graduate Certificate, Georgia State University | International Education Graduate Certificate, Georgia State University | M.Ed. in Mathematics Education, Georgia State University | B.S.Ed. in Mathematics Education, University of Georgia | Research Interests
| Teacher Education | Culturally Responsive Teaching | Social Justice | Technology | |||
| ahackney@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/amy-hackney-2 | Amy | Hackney | Professor | 912-536-1302 | Brannen 1028 | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Psychology | Amy Hackney earned her bachelor's degree in psychology from Indiana University and her Ph.D. in Psychology from Saint Louis University. Dr. Hackney's research examines how stereotypes and prejudice impact decision-making within legal and educational contexts, and she develops and assesses interventions to mitigate these effects. She teaches undergraduate courses on the Statesboro campus and coordinates the Master's in Experimental Psychology Program. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy centers on fostering a sense of belonging and purpose within the college classroom. I aim to encourage an inclusive community of learners where each member contributes to the learning process. I strive to help students synthesize psychological concepts with real-world applications so that ultimately, students are empowered to apply psychological insights to improve their lives and communities. |
| B.A., Indiana University, 1994 | Research Interests
| Social cognition | Legal decision making | Bias reduction | |||||||
| epiedmont@georgiasouthern.edu | Erin | Piedmont | Assistant Professor of Elementary Social Studies | 912-344-3251 | 273 | Armstrong Campus | College of Education | Department of Elementary & Special Education | Dr. Piedmont teaches social studies methods and field experience courses across the BSED, MAT, and MED programs at Georgia Southern University. She is a former elementary general and special education teacher in culturally and linguistically diverse Title I schools. Her research interests are focused on preparing preservice and inservice teachers for culturally responsive and critical social studies pedagogy. Her work currently explores how inquiry and place-based pedagogical approaches in social studies methods courses foster the sociopolitical and critical consciousness of teachers and teacher candidates. | Teaching PhilosophyDr. Piedmont's teaching philosophy is rooted in Constructivism and Critical Theory. She models teaching and prepares teacher candidates for inquiry-based social studies that fosters higher-order thinking skills. She believes that place-based learning enhances student engagement and problem-solving skills, and promotes meaningful and relevant learning opportunities. Dr. Piedmont also teaches through a critical lens, engaging her students in examining local social issues and considering solutions for making communities for equitable. |
| M.A. in Literacy Studies, University of Nevada, Reno | B.S. in Elementary and Special Education, University of Nevada, Reno | Research Interests
| place-based learning | inquiry-based learning | anti-oppressive elementary social studies | critical civic education | ||||||
| nhenderson@georgiasouthern.edu | Nancy | Henderson | Assistant Professor | 912-344-3207 | Armstrong Center | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Department of Clinical Science | Dr. Henderson teaches Orthopedics in the Doctor of Physical Therapy program. Dr. Henderson is board certified and has extensive outpatient clinical experience in both military and civilian facilities and currently treats patients in a local military PT clinic on a weekly basis. She developed two educational programs for military service members. She is the program director for the Soldier Athlete Human Performance Optimization (SAHPO) program (in-person educational model) and the Tactical Athlete Certificate (TAC) (online educational model). She is spearheading a large scale DOD grant assessing the effectiveness of these two educational models. She has presented nationally and published on a variety of Orthopedic topics. | Teaching PhilosophyIn my teaching, I strive to bridge the gap between theoretical learning and real-world clinical experience. I believe that a hands-on, practice-oriented approach in the classroom is essential for preparing students to excel in the clinic environment. By bringing practical scenarios and problem-solving exercises into the learning experience, I aim to make the material relevant, tangible, and directly applicable. Student engagement is at the heart of my teaching philosophy. I create an interactive environment where students feel comfortable asking questions, discussing cases, and practicing skills that they will use in the clinic. |
| DPT | OCS | Cert MDT | CMTPT | Research Interests
| Assessing meaningful change | Diagnosis of musculoskeletal disorders | Diagnostic ultrasound | Running form | ||||
| ksweeney@georgiasouthern.edu | https://works.bepress.com/kara-bridgmansweeney/ | Kara | Bridgman Sweeney | Senior Lecturer of Anthropology; Director, Georgia Southern University | 912-344-3141 | University Hall 211 | Armstrong Campus | College of Behavioral and Social Sciences | Department of Sociology & Anthropology | Kara Bridgman Sweeney (Ph.D. University of Florida, 2013) is a Senior Lecturer of Anthropology in the Department of Sociology and Anthropology at Georgia Southern University. She joined Georgia Southern in 2014. Dr. Bridgman Sweeney directs the Digging Savannah public outreach initiative for archaeology at Georgia Southern University, and her experience is in community archaeology and cultural heritage management. |
| M.A., University College Cork (Ireland) | B.A., South Carolina Honors College, University of South Carolina | Research Interests
| cultural heritage management | Southeastern U.S. Archaeology | ||||||||
| cpfund@georgiasouthern.edu | Celine | Pfund | Assistant Professor of Nursing | 912-478-5685 | Nursing Chemistry Bldg #3019 | Statesboro Campus | Waters College of Health Professions, Overload in the College of Education as needed | School of Nursing | Dr. Celine Pfund has been a registered nurse (RN) since 1994 and a nursing educator since 2010. She teaches in the traditional undergraduate BSN program at Georgia Southern University (GSU) in Statesboro Georgia. She received a BSN from the University of Pittsburgh and an MSN in nursing education from Robert Morris University, both located in Pennsylvania. In 2019 she received an Ed.D. in Curriculum Studies, with an emphasis in issues of social justice and multicultural education, from the College of Education at GSU. Dr. Pfund also teaches an elective online course on multiculturalism in healthcare. She was nominated for a teaching excellence award in 2020. | Teaching PhilosophyProgressive education and student centered learning using the Socratic method |
| BSN | MSN-Ed. in nursing education | Ed.D. curriculum studies | Research Interests
| Competency based education | Medical Trauma | |||||||
| sallybrown@georgiasouthern.edu | Sally | Brown | Professor of Literacy Education | 912-478-6278 | 2130 | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Curriculum, Foundations & Reading | Sally Brown is Professor of Literacy Education at Georgia Southern University and earned a Ph.D. in Language and Literacy from the University of South Carolina. Currently, she teaches graduate students in the M.Ed. and Ed.S. Reading programs. Before working at the university level, she taught in South Carolina public schools for 13 years. She is the former co-editor of Talking Points, a National Council of Teachers of English journal. Sally’s research has been published in journals such as Journal of Early Childhood Literacy, Reading & Writing Quarterly, Language Arts, and The Reading Teacher. Her current book, Multimodal Funds of Knowledge: Countering Deficit Narratives of Diverse Families (2025) was recently published by Routledge. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy is grounded in culturally relevant, student-centered learning that captures students’ interests and builds on their background experiences. I expect, plan for, and encourage students to be active learners in the classroom. This means that students must invest time and energy into both the in-class learning opportunities as well as the out-of-class assignments. As part of this experience, expectations are established in terms of student responsibility to ensure students are engaging in learning tasks. Moreover, students are provided with opportunities to express their understanding of course content in multimodal ways that offer choices, including the use of digital tools. |
| Research Interests
| Multimodal and multilingual literacies | Diversity in family literacies | Early childhood literacies | |||||||||
| kdickens@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/coe/about/directory/dr-kristen-dickens/ | Kristen | Dickens | Associate Professor | 912-478-5309 | 2114 | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Leadership, Technology & Human Development | Kristen Dickens, Ph.D., LPC, NCC, ACS is an Associate Professor in the Counselor Education Program at Georgia Southern University. Dr. Dickens trains graduate students to become professional counselors in clinical, community, and school settings. She has experience working in a variety of mental health settings, including university counseling centers, inpatient treatment centers for eating disorders, and private practice. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy emphasizes student-centered, experiential learning inspired by Pestalozzi's "head, heart, and hands" approach (Brühlmeier, 2010). I design activities that engage students’ thoughts and emotions, fostering connection and encouraging open dialogue. Grounded in the work of Belenky et al. (1997), I support students’ shift from received to constructed knowledge. I strive for transparency in curriculum design and focus on cultivating a growth mindset, respecting students' diverse backgrounds and experiences. Compassion, reflection, and a safe, supportive environment are essential to my approach, helping students see how each learning experience shapes their counselor identity. |
| M.A., Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy concentration, East Tennessee State University | B.A., Psychology, Furman University | Research Interests
| Multicultural competency of counselors in training | Ethical issues in counselor education | Leadership and identity development of counselors | ||||||
| jhobe@georgiasouthern.edu | jhobe@georgiasouthern.edu | John | Hobe | Professor Elementary Education | 912-344-2619 | University Hall 237 | Armstrong Campus | College of Education | Department of Elementary & Special Education | Regular Elementary And Special Education Teacher 1968-1991 Armstrong State University/Georgia Southern University Elementary and Special Education 1991-Present | Teaching PhilosophyUsing effective teaching practices to differentiate instruction and assessment so all children meet lesson accuracy and fluency criteria.. |
| Research Interests
| Managing differentiated instruction and assessment. | The instructional alignment construct. | |||||||||
| almastevenson@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=B2KpcnYAAAAJ&hl=en | Alma D. | Stevenson | Professor of Literacy Education | 912-478-5545 | Colege of Eduation, Room 3129 | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Curriculum, Foundations & Reading | I am a Professor of Literacy. My research explores the power of home languages and cultures to support educational equity and positive identity formation. I seek to construct empowering curricula and pedagogies that advocate for social justice. I examine the role of multicultural, diverse, and content-relevant literature as a resource to foster culturally responsive and sustaining literacy pedagogies. I foster teaching that advances literacy skills among socially diverse students, including bilingual and multilingual learners. | Teaching PhilosophyMy commitment to equity and social justice has inspired me to research, develop, and model instructional practices that engage my students’ interests while helping them meet the needs of our diverse society. An essential element of this approach is reflective teaching to continually theorize and enrich my own classroom practice. I devote many hours each semester to improving my course lectures, activities, assignments, and assessments. |
| M.Ed. in Bilingual Education - University of Texas at El Paso | Bachelors in Mass Communications - Instituto de Technologico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey, Mexico | Research Interests
| Socio-culturally responsive literacy in STEM | Education of migrant farm workers' children | The role of home languages and cultures | Language and literacy in the content areas | |||||
| ccbailey@georgiasouthern.edu | Caroline | Bailey | Elementary Education Visiting Instructor | 912-478-2212 | Education Building Office #4141 | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Elementary & Special Education | Caroline C. Bailey is an alum of Georgia Southern University and is a visiting instructor of Curriculum and Methods, Pre-Internship, and Internship 1 in the Department of Elementary and Special Education. Mrs. Bailey teaches undergraduate courses on the Statesboro campus as well as supervises pre-service teachers in elementary schools in surrounding counties. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy focuses on modeling and instilling a passion for lifelong learning. My goal is to cultivate a new generation of educators who are reflective, collaborative, and committed to educating and empowering their students. |
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| boblake@georgiasouthern.edu | Robert | Lake | Professor of Curriculum Studies | 912-478-0355 | Room 2126-College of Education | Armstrong Campus, Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Curriculum, Foundations & Reading | Robert Lake is a Professor of Curriculum Studies and Social Foundations of Education at Georgia Southern University's Statesboro Campus. | Teaching PhilosophyTrue education should consist of a dialogue between teachers and students wherein knowledge is co-constructed in a caring, inclusive and respectful environment for all. |
| M.S. State University of New York at Albany | Ed.D. Georgia Southern University | Research Interests
| Culturally Sustaining Pedagogy | Critical Pedagogy | Educational Biography | The History of Ideas | ||||||
| msmithey@georgiasouthern.edu | Montana | Smithey | Dr. | 912-478-8016 | 4113 College of Education | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Elementary & Special Education | Montana Smithey is an Assistant Professor of Elementary Mathematics Education in the Department of Elementary & Special Education. Dr. Smithey teaches undergraduate and graduate courses on the Statesboro campus. | Teaching PhilosophyMy teaching philosophy informs all facets of my teaching at Georgia Southern University—the desire for students to have their ideas valued, use knowledge to understand the world, and enjoy learning and thinking. My teaching philosophy is informed by my experience as an elementary classroom teacher (Kinder, 2nd, 3rd, & 4th) and my experiences working alongside other classroom teachers and their children. I also bring multiple lenses to my teaching, including social constructivist theory, culturally relevant and sustaining pedagogy, and experiential learning theory. |
| M.Ed Elementary Education: Focus in Mathematics Education; University of North Carolina Greensboro, 2011 | B.S.Ed. Elementary Education; Elon University, 2007 | Research Interests
| Problem Solving | Social Justice | Problem-Based Learning | Experiential Learning | ||||||
| bwgriffin@georgiasouthern.edu | Bryan | Griffin | Dr. | 2128 College of Education Building | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Curriculum, Foundations & Reading | Has taught educational research, statistics, and measurement courses in the College of Education at Georgia Southern since 1992. |
| MS Florida State University, 1989 | BA North Carolina State University, 1986 | Research Interests
| Motivation and Academic Functioning | Measurement | ||||||||||
| hhuling@georgiasouthern.edu | Heather | Huling | Assistant Professor | 912-478-0571 | COE 4133 | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Elementary & Special Education | Heather Huling is an Assistant Professor of Elementary Education in the Elementary and Special Education department. She teaches undergraduate and graduate courses on arts integration, children's literature, English Language Arts methods, and supervises pre-service teachers on the Statesboro Campus. | Teaching Philosophyy teaching philosophy focuses on creating a welcoming and inclusive environment where every student feels valued and encouraged to engage. I believe that when students are involved, feel safe, and are comfortable sharing their ideas, they learn best. Through application-based learning, I strive to connect our studies to real-life situations, helping students see the relevance of their education. This approach not only builds critical thinking and problem-solving skills but also sparks a lasting love for learning, empowering students to take charge of their own educational journeys. |
| M.Ed. , Georgia Southern University, 2012 | Ed.D , Georgia Southern University, 2023 | Research Interests
| Literacy Education | Innovative Teaching Practices | Equity in Education | Diverse Children's Literature | ||||||
| dwcalhoun@georgiasouthern.edu | Daniel | Calhoun | Professor and Program Director M.Ed. Higher Education Administration | 912-478-1428 | College of Education 3103 | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Leadership, Technology & Human Development | Daniel W. Calhoun, Ph.D., is a Professor of Higher Education Administration at Georgia Southern University. He previously served over 10 years as a Higher Education Administrator, primarily within Residence Life. He holds a Ph.D. from The University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Master’s from Western Illinois University, and Bachelor’s from SUNY College at Geneseo. His research focuses on the preparation, development, and support of graduate students and educational leaders, particularly in the areas of mentorship, technology, and supervision. | Teaching PhilosophyMy role as an educator extends beyond teaching content; I cultivate a safe, inclusive, and collaborative environment that encourages students to actively engage in their learning. Through intentional assignments, I guide them to connect personally with the material, aiming to enhance their professional practice. I challenge students to be reflective learners and critical thinkers who embrace constructive feedback. By building authentic relationships, I strive to instill a sense of duty to advocate for themselves and others, empowering them to become change agents in 21st-century education. |
| M.S., Western Illinois University | Ph.D., University of North Carolina at Greensboro | Research Interests
| Graduate Student & New Practitioner Preparation – Emphasis on supporting graduate students and early-career professionals in their development. | Methods of Professional Development – Exploration of formal and informal development avenues, such as mentorship, supervision, and professional competencies. | Integration of Technology & Professional Identity – Interest in how technology and perceptions of self shape professional practice and academic growth. | Reflective Practice & Personal Experience – Commitment to incorporating personal experiences as both an administrator and faculty member to enhance scholarly work and teaching. | ||||||
| tnorman@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/taylor-norman-2 | Taylor | Norman | Associate Professor of English Language Arts Education | 912-478-0825 | College of Education - 4105 | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Middle Grades & Secondary Education | Taylor Norman is currently an Associate Professor in the Department of Middle Grades and Secondary Education at Georgia Southern University. After a career as a rural high school English teacher, Taylor attended Purdue University for her graduate degrees in English Education. Taylor’s research stories the identities and practices of preservice and inservice middle grade and secondary teachers in order to build bridges between theory and practice. | Teaching PhilosophyAs a teacher educator, my teaching philosophy is committed to preparing future teachers to be life-long learners by providing culturally relevant and innovative curriculum and coursework that offers authentic, student-centered, and technology-rich learning opportunities. |
| Research Interests
| Adolescent Literacy | New and Multimodal Literacies | Culturally Responsive Teaching | ||||||||
| nroy@georgiasouthern.edu | https://works.bepress.com/nalanda-roy/ | Nalanda | Roy | Professor | 912-344-3608 | University Hall 217 | Armstrong Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Political Science & International Studies | Nalanda Roy serves as the Coordinator of the Asian Studies program and holds the titles of Certified Diversity Executive and Inclusive Excellence Faculty Fellow. Dr. Roy has been recognized with prestigious awards including the Dr. Saba Jallow Inclusion Champion award, the Award of Excellence, and the Georgia Southern Women in Research Soar award. She also received the Campus Museum of Service Award for her creation of the An Integral History: Asian Studies Digital Archive. An accomplished author, Dr. Roy has penned several books and contributed numerous peer-reviewed articles to journals and book chapters. Dr. Roy has served as the section program chair for ISA’s South Asia in World Politics and much more. | Teaching PhilosophyDr. Roy mainly focuses on global politics, comparative politics, international relations, and South, Southeast Asia and Asia Pacific studies. |
| Research Interests
| International Law and Security | Human Rights/ Security | Social Movements | South, Southeast Asian, Asia Pacific Studies | |||||||
| ljouben@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-U1Ph-glsYp3ECipo7Kid_HmDn9KGAsW/view?usp=drive_link | Lindsay | Jouben | Lecturer | 912-478-5698 | Carroll Building 2203 | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Political Science & International Studies | Dr. Lindsay Jouben is a Lecturer at Georgia Southern University. Her main research interests include institutional design in Microfinance and its impact on poverty alleviation efforts, and how development programs for the poor need to focus on local conditions and solutions. As an educator in Higher Education, she has seen how issues of equity and belonging can impact student engagement and success and has focused on social capital creation in Higher Education. Dr. Lindsay Jouben believes that programs that foster mentorship and diversity among Professors is important because it promotes a sense of belonging that is essential for student achievement. | Teaching PhilosophyDr. Jouben focuses mainly on Political Science core classes: American Government and World Politics. |
| MA Rutgers-Newark, 2008 | BA Mississippi State University, 2006 | Research Interests
| how development programs for the poor need to focus on local conditions and solutions | ||||||||
| amathews@georgiasouthern.edu | Ashley Loren | Mathews | Senior Lecturer | 912-478-1164 | Biological Sciences, Room 1164 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Biology | Dr. Mathews was born in Florida but grew up in Peachtree City, GA (near Atlanta). Her love for the ocean took her back to Florida for her undergraduate and graduate degrees in marine and aquatic sciences, respectively. She joined Georgia Southern's Department of Biology in 2013. Dr. Mathews has a passion for teaching and community outreach, but she still enjoys actively participating in research on the Georgia coast and monitoring our local waterways. | Teaching PhilosophyMy focus is on student success which begins with recruitment and continues through the admission, retention, and graduation of future alumni. My efforts to increase student success aligns with the University’s mission to provide a “learner-centered culture” both inside and outside of the classroom to prepare students “to think, lead, teach, and serve”. I “promote talent and economic development” by equipping students with the knowledge and skills they need to apply themselves in the real world and passionately pursue their careers. I seek to “enhance quality of life” of my students by supporting their scholarly pursuits, creating a cultural enrichment learning environment, promoting student life, and encouraging community engagement. |
| MA, University of Miami, 2007, Marine Affairs & Policy | BS, University of Miami, 2005, Marine Science & Biology | Research Interests
| coastal and inland water quality | human alterations of ecosystems | ||||||||
| jscalera@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ECC_yRXhgA8ppwGTn2gYzhTdMMvYZ4D7/view?usp=share_link | Jamie | Scalera-Elliott | Department Chair and Professor | 912-478-4204 | Carroll Building 2287A | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Political Science & International Studies | Dr. Scalera-Elliott specializes in the field of International Relations, with a focus on international organizations and international political economy. She is committed to the advancement of women in Political Science and International Studies through her research and service to the profession. She currently serves the ISA as a member of the Nominating Committee (2022-2025), a member of the Long-Range Planning Committee (2022-2024), and as a member of the editorial board for International Studies Quarterly. | Teaching PhilosophyHer primary research agenda focuses on the legitimacy of international organizations (IOs), broadly construed as the appropriate and effective exercise of authority to govern state members. As such, her research examines factors influencing IO legitimacy, including their institutional design (such as rules of membership or intra-institutional politics) and their strategic choices. She also studies public perception of IOs and mechanisms by which IOs can affect their levels of perceived legitimacy. |
| M.S. in Political Science-International Relations, University of Florida | B.A. in International Studies, Stetson University | Research Interests
| International Organizations Legitimacy | Women in Political Science and International Studies | |||||||
| bballack@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KMOgPyLgy35ZdhhCrwq2Y4UZamS0-3qp/view?usp=share_link | Barry | Ballack | Professor | 912-478-0571 | Carroll Building 2273 | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Political Science & International Studies | Dr. Balleck joined the faculty of Georgia Southern University, where he held a joint appointment in both the Department of Political Science and the Center for International Studies. For the past twenty years he has also directed Georgia Southern University’s Model United Nations (MUN) program, one of the oldest and most continuous programs of its kind in the country. Dr. Balleck has directed the Georgia Southern MUN delegation to several national awards and has conducted dozens of MUN conferences for middle and high school students from Georgia, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Florida. | Teaching PhilosophyDr. Balleck has research and teaching interests in the fields of international and domestic terrorism, U.S. foreign policy, the rhetoric of politics, the United Nations, and international human rights. He has dozens of conference presentations to his credit and has published in journals such as Presidential Studies Quarterly, Politics & Policy, and Peace Psychology Review. Dr. Balleck’s most recent publication is a book from Praeger Press entitled, “Allegiance to Liberty: The Changing Face of Patriots, Militias, and Political Violence in America.” |
| M.A. International Studies, Brigham Young University | B.A. Political Science, Brigham Young University | Research Interests
| U.S. Foreign policy | Rhetoric of politics | United Nations | International human rights | |||||
| wbiebuyck@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/file/d/1zLIfVSraLHkc29j7tNjnWJtg9QAWVd79/view?usp=share_link | William | Biebuyck | Associate Professor | 912-478-2229 | Carroll Building 2207 | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Political Science & International Studies | Dr. Biebuyck received his PhD in Political Science & Political Economy from Carleton University (Ottawa, Canada) in 2014. Before arriving at Georgia Southern, he taught course on European Politics & Society, EU Governance, Global Political Issues, and the Politics of Food at Carleton University and the University of Ottawa. Dr. Biebuyck’s primary research interests fall in the areas of global agricultural politics, transnational political economy, and the use of interdisciplinary methods for exploring the history of social power within industrialized societies. | Teaching PhilosophyHis published work appears in venues including the European Journal of Social Theory, the Journal of Contemporary European Studies, Comparative European Politics, and The International Studies Encyclopedia. Dr. Biebuyck is currently completing a book project, based on his doctoral research, which fashions a history of governance and political rule in Western Europe from the perspective of food, farming and rural populations. |
| Research Interests
| transnational political economy | ||||||||||
| cmbrown@georgiasouthern.edu | https://democraticpurgatory.org/ | Christopher | Brown | Associate Professor | 912-478-7946 | Carroll Building 2209 | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Political Science & International Studies | Born and raised in Philadelphia, Dr. Brown attended University of Florida and Temple University where he pursued his BA in Political Science as student-athlete in the sport of rugby. His research addresses normative issues of democratization and democracy theory broadly with a regional specialization in the Caribbean Basin. He has recently completed a manuscript on “Democratic Purgatory” and how democracies can break down through democratic means. Currently, he is beginning a new project on the concept of “verisimilitude” as an artifact of post-materialist civic engagement in advanced democracies as well as continuing his research into the intersection of sports and conflict resolution through an examination of Irish Rugby. | Teaching PhilosophyDr. Brown earned his Ph.D. from Florida International University’s School of International and Public Affairs in Miami, Florida in 2009. He teaches and researches in the discipline of International Studies, specializing in democratization and democratic theory. |
| Research Interests
| Sustainable Development | Blue Economy | Political Campaigning | ||||||||
| kcook@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ldVsYTPmBTION-GJAFb7cXe5i7YeitLc/view?usp=share_link | Kevin | Cook | Senior Lecturer | 912-478-7298 | Carroll Building 2206 | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Political Science & International Studies | After receiving an M.A. in political science from Georgia Southern University in 1991, Cook was hired as a temporary instructor. Appointed as a lecturer in 2012, he teaches several large sections of American Government. Cook serves as advisor to the Political Science Club and the Georgia Southern chapter of Pi Sigma Alpha, the National Political Science Honor Society. | Teaching PhilosophyAmerican Government |
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| bcurry@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/file/d/1pOL24ntZShd9KuTf8M_Xlcmfyv2x-Adq/view?usp=share_link | Brett | Curry | Professor | 912-478-7076 | Carroll Building 2202 | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Political Science & International Studies | Dr. Curry received his Ph.D. in political science from The Ohio State University in 2005, and has been a faculty member at Georgia Southern since 2006. He teaches and researches in the field of American politics, with a general focus on law and courts. Curry’s research has been published in journals such as the Journal of Politics, Law & Society Review, American Politics Research, Law & Social Inquiry, Presidential Studies Quarterly, Political Research Quarterly, and Politics & Policy. He has coauthored two books, Decision Making by the Modern Supreme Court (Cambridge University Press, 2011) and U.S. Attorneys, Political Control, and Career Ambition (Oxford University Press, 2019). | Teaching PhilosophyJudicial decision making, United States Attorneys, Constitutional law, American government, American political institutions, and research methods. |
| Research Interests
| United States Attorneys | Constitutional Law | American Goverment | American political institutions | |||||||
| jdacruz@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/file/d/19r8o0PoiVYx6XKSlWDJb2MtPrD5fnWF9/view?usp=share_link | José | de Arimatéia da Cruz | Professor | 912-344-2679 | University Hall 234 | Armstrong Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Political Science & International Studies | Professor of International Relations and International StudiesGeorgia Southern UniversityDepartment of Political Science & International StudiesResearch Professor U.S. Army War College Strategic Studies InstituteResearch Fellow Brazil Research Unit Council on Hemispheric Affairs (COHA) | Teaching PhilosophyLatin American and African Foreign Policy, Latin American and African National Security, Latin American Media and Politics, North-South Relations: Drug Trafficking & Transnational Organized Crime, Women and Politics in Latin America & Africa, Civil-Military Relations in Latin America & Africa, National Security and Cyber Security, Global Cyber Security, and Human Aspects of Cyber Security |
| Master in Public Health (MPH Public Health Generalist) Georgia Southern University, Savannah, GA (Jack N. Averitt College of Graduate Studies, 2018) | M.A. Professional Communication & Leadership Armstrong State University, Savannah, Georgia (Degree Awarded: Summer 2015) | M.S. Armstrong Atlantic State University, Savannah, Georgia (Criminal Justice with an emphasis in Cyber Affairs & Security; Degree Awarded: May 2012) | M.A. Miami University, Oxford, Ohio (Political Science/Political Philosophy; Degree Awarded: August 1992) | Research Interests
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| sengel@georgiasouthern.edu | Steven | Engel | Professor, Dean Honors College | 912-478-7926 | Edison House 1027 | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences, Honors College | Department of Political Science & International Studies | Professor Engel received his Ph.D. in political science from Loyola University of Chicago and has been a faculty member at Georgia Southern since 1999. He has been the director of Honors since 2005. His teaching and research interests focus on political philosophy, patriotism and nationalism, and political action committees. He is the author of several articles and book chapters on these topics. | Teaching PhilosophyPolitical philosophy, patriotism and nationalism, politics in Northern Ireland, and political action committee behavior. |
| Research Interests
| patriotism and nationalism | politics of Northern Ireland | political action committee behavior | |||||||||
| mflynn@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ZHRMJbV5UCcivGbe9-yt9ypkKEcZe4mw/view?usp=share_link | Matthew | Flynn | Professor | 912-478-2213 | Carroll Building 2205 | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Political Science & International Studies | Dr. Flynn is a Professor of International Studies. He received his Ph.D. at the University of Texas at Austin in December 2010. Dr. Flynn received his Masters in Sociology from the London School of Economics and Social Science (London, UK) and holds a BS in Foreign Service from Georgetown University (Washington, DC). | Teaching PhilosophyHis research focuses on political economy, globalization, and human rights. He has authored several articles focused on Latin America including a recent book publication Pharmaceutical Autonomy and Public Health in Latin America: State, Society, and Industry in Brazil’s AIDS Program (Routledge 2015). His current research is examining the immigration detention complex. In the past, he has worked as a consultant for the Pan American Health Organization and Texas’s Department of State Health Services, as well as foreign correspondent in Brazil. |
| Masters in Sociology, London School of Economics and Social Science (London, UK) | BS Foreign Service, Georgetown University (Washington, DC) | Research Interests
| globalization | human rights | |||||||
| sjallow@georgiasouthern.edu | Saba | Jallow | Associate Professor Emeritus | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Political Science & International Studies | Dr. Jallow received his Ph.D. from West Virginia University and he has been teaching at Georgia Southern University since 1989. He came to Georgia Southern from the University of Virginia, where he was a Pre-Doctoral Fellow at the Carter G. Woodson Institute.He initiated the Southeast Model African Union simulation in Georgia, which is now held annually by the University System of Georgia Africa Council. He was the chair of the University System African Council for four years. He also served as the director of the Center for Africana Studies at Georgia Southern University. | Teaching PhilosophyClasses he taught at Georgia Southern include American Government, African Politics, Introduction to Africa and its Diaspora, Model African Union Seminar, Comparative Politics, Rural Economic Development, Scope and Methods, International Political Economy, Congress and Public Policy and Fulani. |
| Research Interests
| Center for Africana Studies | |||||||||||||
| joshuakennedy@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/file/d/1G9zeRgd7aS1CphiyyYxnTYX3kFgrn5Uo/view?usp=drive_link | Joshua | Kennedy | Associate Professor | 912-478-7928 | Carroll Building 2210 | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Political Science & International Studies | Dr. Kennedy received his Ph.D. from the University of Colorado, Boulder, in 2014. His principal area of study and teaching is in American politics, with a more particular focus on the presidency and the federal bureaucracy. Kennedy has presented his work at numerous conferences, including the Annual Meeting of the American Political Science Association and the Annual Meeting of the Midwest Political Science Association. His research has appeared in such outlets as American Politics Research, Research and Politics, and Presidential Studies Quarterly. | Teaching PhilosophyThe American presidency, presidential power, federal bureaucracy, inter-branch relations, principal-agent dilemmas, Congress, state politics, and political institutions. |
| Research Interests
| federal bureaucarcy | state politics | |||||||||
| jlubecki@georgiasouthern.edu | Jacek | Lubecki | Professor | 912-478-7299 | Carroll Building 2211A | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Political Science & International Studies | Dr. Jacek Lubecki was born in Poland and studied law and romance languages at the Adam Mickiewicz University of Poznan. He received his Ph.D. in International Studies from the Graduate School of International Studies, University of Denver in 2000 and taught at University of Colorado-Colorado Springs (1998-2000, and at Millikin University (2000-2005) in Decatur, Illinois. Between 2005-2012 was Coordinator of International Studies and of Middle Eastern Studies, and Assistant, and, since 2009, Associate Professor of Political Science, at University of Arkansas at Little Rock. He came to Georgia Southern University in 2012. | Teaching PhilosophyHis publications include articles such as “Echoes of Latifundism” (Eastern European Politics and Societies, winter 2004), “Poland in Iraq” (The Polish Review, summer 2005), and “Reconstructing Galicia” (Europe-Asia Studies, 2010). He also published articles on Polish military history in the popular journal “The Armchair General.” His article on Jozef Pilsudski as a military leader was published in The Polish Review in 2011. Since then, he published several books, mostly on topics of defense policies of East-Central Europea and the Balkans. |
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| pnovonty@georgiasouthern.edu | https://intranet.georgiasouthern.edu/cbss/points/wp-content/uploads/sites/43/Patrick_Novotny-CV.pdf | Patrick | Novonty | Professor | 912-478-1391 | Carroll Building 2204 | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Political Science & International Studies | Professor Novotny received his Ph.D. in Political Science from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1995 and has been a faculty member at Georgia Southern since then. Novotny’s research has been published in journals such as the Harvard International Journal of Press/Politics, The Georgia Historical Quarterly, and Social Science Computer Review. His latest book, This Georgia Rising: Education, Civil Rights, And The Politics Of Elections In Georgia In The 1940s, was published with Mercer University Press in 2007. | Teaching PhilosophyHe teaches and researches in the field of American politics, with a general focus on Georgia political history, political parties, and politics and the media.He has recently completed a book manuscript on the study of qualitative research methodology in Political Science and is currently completing another book manuscript on the history of politics and the media in American political history from the 18th Century through the present. |
| Research Interests
| American political insitutions | qualitative research methodology | political parties | politics and the media | |||||||
| kperry@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/file/d/1eBV3Pj0LnwXTi1RKc4IoItjYt6ak67zN/view?usp=sharing | Kate | Perry | Associate Professor | 912-478-0838 | Carroll Building 2208 | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Political Science & International Studies | Kate Perry received her Ph.D. in Political Science from the University of Missouri. She completed her MA in International Relations at Western Illinois University and received her BA in Political Science from Monmouth College. She has been at GSU since the fall of 2019. | Teaching PhilosophyDr. Perry specializes in gender and human security in international relations. In her research, Dr. Perry examines the ways in which gender influences and is influenced by global security phenomena within and beyond the traditional concept of military security. Her work has explored Women as decision-makers in positions of leadership, as victims of crime, and as individuals impacted by the foreign policy decisions of typically male decision makers. Her core research goal is to build a body of work that helps to improve the circumstances of girls and Women around the world. Principally, Dr. Perry has focused her research on the topic of human trafficking, a heavily gendered issue that sits at the nexus between human security and gender. |
| MA International Relations, Western Illinois University | BA Political Science, Monmouth College | Research Interests
| human trafficking | ||||||||
| rpirro@georgiasouthern.edu | Robert | Pirro | Professor | 912-478-7297 | Carroll Building 2271 | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Political Science & International Studies | Dr. Robert Pirro came to Georgia Southern in 1997 after finishing graduate work at U.C. Berkeley (Ph.D. 1996) and undergraduate work at Harvard (B.A. 1986). Professor Pirro has many scholarly interests including the politics of tragedy, the political thought of Auschwitz survivor, industrial chemist, and writer Primo Levi, the political theory of the German-Jewish refugee-turned-American Political theorist Hannah Arendt, and the politics of film. He welcomes conversations with students about movies, politics, tragedy, the links between American and German culture, Socrates, and where to find the best secondhand bookstores. | Teaching PhilosophyHe covers most of the department’s survey courses in political theory/philosophy (Ancient Political Thought, Modern Political Thought, Contemporary Political Thought, American Political Thought, Feminist Political Thought). Film and Politics is the newest addition to the political theory/philosophy courses he offers. In teaching American Government and Introduction to Political Science, he does NOT use textbooks but instead tries to convey to students the excitement and challenge of politics by studying in some depth examples of important political phenomena including revolution, populism, corruption, utopianism. |
| BA, Harvard University | Research Interests
| politics of film | ||||||||||
| mstobb@georgiasouthern.edu | https://maureenstobb.academia.edu/ | Maureen | Stobb | Associate Professor | 912-478-5765 | Carroll Building 2203 | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Political Science & International Studies | Maureen Stobb received her Ph.D. in Political Science from the University of Texas at Dallas. She completed her B.A. in Political Science at the College of New Jersey and obtained a J.D. from the University of Notre Dame. She was an intern at the fifth session of the Preparatory Commission for the International Criminal Court and at Amnesty International’s London office. She also practiced law for seven years, primarily as an immigration and asylum attorney. | Teaching PhilosophyDr. Stobb specializes in law and courts, and immigration policy. In her research, Dr. Stobb examines the impact of the use of legal concepts and arguments, and reliance on courts, to address public policy problems. In particular, she studies the use of law and legal processes to promote international norms of human rights and dignity, to address challenges posed by human migration, and to define the rights and duties attached to citizenship. Dr. Stobb’s current research agenda focuses on the formulation, implementation and impact of citizenship and immigration policy. |
| J.D. University of Notre Dame | B.A Political Science, College of New Jersey | Research Interests
| immigration policy | ||||||||
| htecklenburg@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/file/d/1uV3FrFBKCpwuXpUb_Zhlq9LcpXrXD4-F/view?usp=share_link | H. Chris | Tecklenburg | Associate Professor | 912-344-3160 | University Hall 215 | Armstrong Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Political Science & International Studies | Dr. H. Chris Tecklenburg received his Ph.D. in Political Science from the University of Florida. He completed his B.A. in Political Science at the University of South Carolina, and his J.D. from the University of South Carolina School of Law. Prior to pursuing graduate studies, he practiced two years focusing on corporate, real estate and insurance disputes. His primary teaching areas include American Government and the Courts. | Teaching PhilosophyAmerican Government, American Constitutional Law, and Judicial Politics. |
| J.D. University of South Carolina School of Law | B.A. Political Science, University of South Carolina | Research Interests
| American Constitutional Law | Judicial Politics | |||||||
| kimberlymartin@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/file/d/1xJuEPNkMarcw5DpZlOkH3qqqs9WOJV6Y/view?usp=sharing | Kimberly | Martin Tecklenburg | Assistant Professor | 912-344-2698 | University Hall 235 | Armstrong Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Political Science & International Studies | Dr. Martin Tecklenburg received her Ph.D. in Political Science – Public Policy from the University of Florida where she also completed an M.A. in Political Science – Public Affairs. She attended Sweet Briar College, where she received a B.A. in Government. She has experience in both higher education and the public sector. She worked as the Special Assistant for Secretary of Education Belle Wheelan and former Governor Mark Warner of Virginia. While at the University of Florida, she worked with former Senator and Governor, Bob Graham, to establish the Bob Graham Center for Public Service. After graduation, she moved to Tennessee where she served as the Assistant Director of Research at the Tennessee Higher Education Commission. | Teaching PhilosophyShe teaches courses in American politics, research methods, leadership, and public policy. Her past experiences have influenced her current research interests, which focus on education policy, political leadership, state politics, and LGBTQ+ policy. |
| M.A. Political Science - Public Affairs, University of Florida | B.A. Government, Sweet Briar College | Research Interests
| political leadership | state politics | LGBTQ+ policy | ||||||
| lwessel@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/file/d/1plwNuSCN02UOluBSU8mcPdWyURo3Ly0G/view?usp=drive_link | Lara | Wessel | Associate Professor | 912-344-2683 | University Hall 221 | Armstrong Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Political Science & International Studies | Lara Wessel earned her Ph.D. in Political Science from the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee. She also completed her MA in Political Science at UWM. She attended Ohio University and earned her BA in Communications from Cardinal Stritch University. She has been at the Armstrong Campus of GSU since the fall of 2011. | Teaching PhilosophyDr. Wessel specializes in political ideology and its impacts on political behavior, media, and decision making. In her research, Dr. Wessel examines ways in which political ideology influences behavior both within the formal political sphere, and in other areas of life not traditionally thought of as political. For example, she analyzes the influence of political ideology in popular music and sports. Her research goal is to encourage students to understand the significance of political ideology in their lives. She is currently analyzing the relationships among political ideology, rhetoric, and political violence. |
| MA Political Science, University of Wisconsin Milwaukee | BA Communications, Cardinal Stritch University | ||||||||||
| mallen@georgiasouthern.edu | Mary Kate | Allen | Communications Manager | 912-478-1044 | Rosenwald | Statesboro Campus | Provost Office | Office of the Provost & Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs |
| MA in Journalism/Emerging Media, 2025, University of Georgia | ||||||||||||||
| barogers@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/baker-rogers-2 | Baker | Rogers | Associate Professor of Sociology | 912-478-5731 | Carroll 2278 | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | Department of Sociology & Anthropology | Baker A. Rogers is an Associate Professor of Sociology at Georgia Southern University. Their research focuses on inequality, specifically examining the intersections of gender, sexuality, and religion in the U.S. South. Their book, Conditionally Accepted: Christians’ Perspectives on Sexuality and Gay and Lesbian Civil Rights, was released in December 2019, their book, Trans Men in the South: Becoming Men, was released in January 2020, and their book, King of Hearts: Drag Kings in the American South, was released in 2021. Their work is also published in Men and Masculinities; Journal of Interpersonal Violence; Gender & Society; Qualitative Sociology; and more. | Teaching PhilosophyBaker's goal as a teacher is to help students connect theory to real world problems through a social justice lens. |
| Winthrop University, MSW, 2011 | Presbyterian College, BS Sociology, 2007 | Research Interests
| Sexualities | Trans Studies | Masculinities | Southeast | |||||
| mcampbell@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/chp/clinical/faculty-and-staff/myka-campbell/ | Myka | Bussey-Campbell | Associate Chair, Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program Coordinator | 912-344-2787 | AH 103 | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Department of Clinical Science | I am the Associate Chair of Clinical Sciences and Program Coordinator of the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program on the Armstrong campus located in Savannah, GA. I earned my undergraduate Bachelor of Radiologic Sciences degree from Augusta University. Upon graduation, I earned certifications in the speciality areas of Radiography and Diagnostic Medical Sonography. I pursued Master's degree in Adult Education with an emphasis on Instructional Technology from Georgia Southern University (formerly Armstrong State University). Ultimately, I earned a Doctorate of Philosophy from the University of Georgia from the Mary Frances Early College of Education. I have served as an educator in imaging profession for approximately 20 years. | Teaching Philosophy
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| Master's of Adult Education - Instructional Technology | Doctorate of Philosophy (Education) | Registered Radiographer | Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonography | Research Interests
| Student Success | Mental Health and Wellbeing in Higher Education | |||||
| jdyer@georgiasouthern.edu | John | Dyer | Professor | 912-478-5223 | PCOB 1114 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Information Systems & Analytics | Very successful in all components of teaching, research, service, student success, and professional growth, having successfully developed and taught a multitude of courses in information systems, statistics, quantitative methods, decision sciences, and finance. Developed and maintained a research agenda, with a current emphasis primarily within the field of IS education, having 26 refereed publications, and 9 referred proceedings. Continuous support of the institution and professional organizations through service. Extensive skills and experience within IS areas related to teaching business applications software, database, and ERP. | Teaching Philosophy
|
| M.S. Statistics - University of Alabama | MSIS Management Information Systems - Georgia College & State University | M.B.A. Emphasis Finance & Quant Methods - University of Alabama at B'ham | B.S. Business Emphasis Finance & Quant Methods - University of Alabama at B'ham | Research Interests
| Database Programming | Applied Business Analytics | ||||||
| mmaxwell@georgiasouthern.edu | Kathi | Maxwell | Dr | 440-522-9816 | University Hall Rm 262 | Armstrong Campus | College of Education | Department of Middle Grades & Secondary Education | Kathi is a Georgia Southern alum and is a visiting instructor in the Middle Grades and Secondary Education program. Dr. Maxwell teaches graduate courses and enjoys working with future teachers. | Teaching Philosophy
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| M.Ed. in Educational Leadership | B.S. In Biology | Research Interests
| STEM education | Effective instructional strategies | ||||||||
| svpool@georgiasouthern.edu | Scot | Pool | Part-time instructor, Legal Environment of Business | 912-352-1190 | Savannah | Armstrong Campus | Parker College of Business | School of Accountancy | Mr. Pool has been practicing law since 1996 and teaching at Georgia Southern since 2003. He often considers teaching the highlight of his day. | Teaching Philosophy
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| mthomas@georgiasouthern.edu | Michael | Thomas | Department Chair | 912-478-5022 | Parker College 2204A | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Marketing | Ph.D. from Southern Illinois University | Teaching Philosophy
|
| Research Interests
| Strategy | Theory | ||||||||||
| jliu@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/parker/isa/jun-liu/ | Jun | Liu | Associate Professor of Quantitative Methods | 912-478-5085 | 2225 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Information Systems & Analytics | Jun Liu is Associate Professor of Quantitative Methods at the Department of Information Systems & Analytics, Parker College of Business, Georgia Southern University. He received his Ph.D. in Business Statistics from the University of Illinois at Chicago. His research interest includes linear and nonlinear/nonparametric time series analysis, forecasting methods, machine learning, and business applications of statistics. | Teaching Philosophy
|
| Research Interests
| Nonparametric statistics | Business Analytics | |||||||||
| shairston@georgiasouthern.edu | Stephanie | Hairston | Associate Professor | 912-478-5127 | PCOB 2249 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | School of Accountancy | Dr. Stephanie A. Hairston, CPA, is an Associate Professor and Coordinator of Graduate Accounting Programs at Georgia Southern University, where she has been a faculty member since 2014. She previously served as an Assistant Professor and has contributed significantly through her research in capital markets, derivative accounting, and top management composition. Dr. Hairston earned her Ph.D. in Accounting from the University of Memphis and her M.S. and B.S. in Accounting and Finance from Wake Forest University. Before joining academia, she gained valuable experience at Ernst & Young LLP as an Assurance Services Accountant, enhancing her expertise in financial reporting and auditing. | Teaching Philosophy
|
| Masters of Science in Accounting, Wake Forest University | Bachelor of Science in Finance, Wake Forest University | Research Interests
| Derivative Accounting | Auditing | Education | |||||||
| jsarji@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=uKsNfBcAAAAJ&hl=en | Matt | Sarji | Assistant Professor | 912-478-2204 | Parker 2226 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | School of Accountancy | Matt Sarji earned his Ph.D. at Virginia Commonwealth University. His primary research interest is in managerial accounting and incentivizing creativity in the workplace. In addition, Matt is a licensed CPA in the state of Virginia with three years of professional experience. | Teaching Philosophy
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| Research Interests
| Incentives | Control Systems | Creativity | ||||||||
| janicebrown@georgiasouthern.edu | Janice | Brown | Administrative Assistant II | 912-478-2228 | Parker College of Business, Room 2203 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | School of Accountancy | From Sylvania, GA. Been with GS and School of Accountancy for almost 15 years. Married to Wallace Brown. One son, Wally; daughter-in-law, Kaitlyn; 1 year old grandson, Tripp. | Teaching Philosophy | ||||||||||||||
| ssipe@georgiasouthern.edu | Stephanie | Sipe | Professor of Legal Studies in Business | 912-478-1223 | Parker College of Business 1103 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | School of Accountancy | Stephanie Sipe joined the faculty of Georgia Southern University in 2005. Professor Sipe practiced law for 12 years, where she developed an expertise in employment law issues. She has appeared in state and federal trial and appellate courts, including the Virginia Supreme Court, the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals, and was counsel of record on a case appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court. Professor Sipe has an active research agenda with numerous publications in academic journals. She currently serves as the Chair of the Parker College Inclusion and Belonging Committee and represents the College on the President’s Inclusive Excellence Advisory Board. | Teaching Philosophy
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| Masters of Science, James Madison University | Bachelors of Arts (cum laude), Wake Forest University | Research Interests
| Employment Discrimination | Whistleblower Law | ||||||||
| ssuboleski@georgiasouthern.edu | Stanley | Suboleski | Senior Lecturer of Management | 912-478-2548 | Parker College of Business room 1105 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Management | Stan Suboleski, senior lecturer of management, has a doctorate degree from the William F. Harrah College of Hotel Administration at the University of Nevada Las Vegas. He teaches courses in management, services/hospitality operations, human resources, organizational behavior, marketing, and strategic management. Previously the director of sales at the International Gaming Institute in Las Vegas, Suboleski has more than 20 years of hotel experience in executive and corporate management, including posts as vice president of operations and senior vice president of development for asset management firms based in Chicago and Florida. | Teaching Philosophy |
| MS Hotel Administration, UNLV, 2006 | BS Theater, Syracuse University, 1984 | Research Interests
| Service Theory | Resort Management | ||||||||
| tbuckhoff@georgiasouthern.edu | Thomas | Buckhoff | Associate Professor of Accounting | 912-486-0809 | Parker College of Business, Room 3301 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | School of Accountancy | Thomas Buckhoff is Associate Professor of Accounting at Georgia Southern University. He is also a partner with Forensic Solutions, LLC—a professional firm specializing in forensic accounting and litigation support services. Dr. Buckhoff received his Bachelors and Master of Accountancy degrees from Brigham Young University (BYU) and his Ph.D. in accounting from the University of Kentucky. He is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), a Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), and is Certified in Financial Forensics (CFF) by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. He currently serves on the Editorial Boards for the Journal of Forensic Accounting Research and the Journal of Forensic & Investigative Accounting. | Teaching Philosophy
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| Master of Accountancy, Brigham Young University | Bachelor of Science, Accounting, Brigham Young University | Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Certified in Financial Forensics (CFF) | Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) | Research Interests
| forensic accounting | expert witnessing | ||||||
| mwhatley@georgiasouthern.edu | Maliece | Whatley | Principal Lecturer | 912-344-3167 | Hawes Room 208D | Armstrong Campus | Parker College of Business | School of Accountancy | Maliece Whatley is a CPA with over 40 years of experience. She began her career as an auditor with Coopers & Lybrand, and then moved into a management postion at BellSouth Enterprises. She is actively involved in professional organizations, serving on the Leadership Council of the Georgia Society of CPAs. Her previous leadership roles have included: past President of the Educational Foundation of the Georgia Society of CPAs and past President of the Georgia Association of Accounting Educators. She received the Outstanding Accounting Educator Award from the Educational Foundation of the Georgia Society of CPAs in 2012. She teaches undergraduate Principles of Accounting courses. | Teaching Philosophy
|
| BBA, University of Georgia | ||||||||||||
| dsneathen@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/parker/soa/l-dwight-sneathen/ | L. Dwight | Sneathen Jr. | Associate Professor of Accounting | 912-478-0167 | College of Business 2223 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | School of Accountancy | Dwight Sneathen is an Associate Professor of Accounting at Georgia Southern University where he arrived in 2005. Sneathen worked in public accounting and private industry prior to entering academia. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Arizona, he is a Certified Public Accountant, a Certified Fraud Examiner, and he is active with the Georgia Society of CPAs.Sneathen primarily teaches financial accounting at the graduate and undergraduate levels. He was voted Professor of the Year in the School of Accountancy in 2007 and 2011, Outstanding Faculty of the Year in the Georgia WebMBA in 2023 and 2024, and Outstanding Accounting Educator by the Georgia Society of CPAs Educational Foundation in 2022. | Teaching Philosophy
|
| 2000 Master of Accounting, University of Arizona | 1996 Bachelor of Science, University of Arizona | Research Interests
| The impact of firm characteristics on audit planning decisions and outcomes. | ||||||||
| kboakye@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/kwabena-g-boakye-2 | Kwabena | Boakye | Professor of Information Systems and Analytics | 912-478-5799 | Parker College of Business Room 3341 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Information Systems & Analytics | Kwabena G. Boakye, Ph.D., is a professor of information systems and analytics in the Parker College of Business, Georgia Southern University. Kwabena is a certified Six Sigma Black Belt by the American Society for Quality. His research interests include healthcare and service operations strategy, quality management, and information technology post-adoption. | Teaching Philosophy
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| M.S., University of Idaho, 2010 | BSc., Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), 2006 | Research Interests
| Healthcare and Service Operation Strategy | IT Post-Adoption | Center for Public Health Practice and Research | ||||||
| gbrock@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=GJMtFvYAAAAJ&hl=en | Gregory | Brock | Professor | 912-478-5579 | 3322 PCOB | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Economics | Prof. Gregory Brock has a PhD from The Ohio State University. He is a full professor of economics in the dept. of economics in the Parker College of Business at Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, GA USA. His collected works can be found on google scholar | Teaching Philosophy
|
| MA | BA | Research Interests
| Mexican Economy | ||||||||
| bdai@georgiasouthern.edu | Bo | Dai | Associate Professor of Marketing | 912-344-3288 | Hawes Hall 208H | Armstrong Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Marketing | Bo Dai is an Associate Professor of Marketing at Georgia Southern University, USA. She received her Ph.D.s from the University of North Texas and Auburn University. Her research interests include retail strategies, customer service experience, and retail patronage. She has published in journals including Psychology & Marketing, Journal of Strategic Marketing, Journal of Journal of Retailing and Consumer Services, and Journal of Electronic Commerce Research. | Teaching Philosophy
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| Research Interests
| Customer Service | |||||||||||
| jgrimes@georgiasouthern.edu | Jan | Grimes | Senior Lecturer | 912-478-1556 | Parker College of Business 2240 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Management | Sara Jan Grimes, Senior Lecturer, joined the faculty at Georgia Southern University in January 1999. She previously worked with the Small Business Development Center as a Business Consultant. She was inducted as a Fellow in 2022 in the Southeast CASE Research Association (SECRA) and currently serves on the Editorial Board for the Southeast Case Research Journal. Jan is a certified Quality Matters peer reviewer. Jan has also earned Center for Teaching Excellence (CETE) badges for being proficient in teaching with technology and for Evidence-Based Teaching. Jan’s outside interests include Georgia Southern Athletics, gardening, and loving her cats. | Teaching Philosophy
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| BBA, Georgia Southern University, 1995 | ||||||||||||
| ddavtyan@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/davit-davtyan | Davit | Davtyan | Assistant Professor, Marketing | 912-478-6625 | COBA 3339 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Marketing | Davit Davtyan is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Marketing at Georgia Southern University. He earned his Ph.D. in Advertising, Marketing, and Media Analytics from The University of Texas at Austin. Dr. Davtyan’s research focuses on brand placements, effectiveness of advertising campaigns, and diffusion of innovations. Prior to his academic career, Dr. Davtyan held various managerial positions in marketing, telecommunications, and business consulting. | Teaching Philosophy
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| MBA, American University of Armenia, 2009 | B.S., Moscow State Engineering Physics Institute, 2004 | Research Interests
| Diffusion of Innovations | Advertising Effectiveness | |||||||
| rressler@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=CVCAbhcAAAAJ&hl=en | Rand | Ressler | Associate Dean | 912-478-0086 | 2253C | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Economics | Rand Ressler is the Associate Dean for Academic and Faculty Affairs for the Parker College of Business. He has (co) authored more than thirty peer-reviewed publications in academic journals such as Economic Inquiry, Southern Economic Journal, The American Journal of Economics and Sociology, Review of Industrial Organization, and Public Choice, among others. His works have been cited hundreds of times by other scholars of applied microeconomics and have been referenced in U.S. Senate hearings. He is an enthusiastic instructor who cherishes time in the classroom. | Teaching Philosophy
|
| B.S. in Business Administration (Economics), Auburn University | Research Interests
| Labor Economics | Public Choice | ||||||||
| rmcgrath@georgiasouthern.edu | Richard | McGrath | Professor of Economics | 912-344-2626 | Hawes 208J | Armstrong Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Economics | Rick McGrath Has been a faculty member on the Armstrong Campus of Georgia Southern University since his arrival at Armstrong in 1997. He is a Past-President and Fellow of the Academy of Economic and Finance. His teaching focuses on microeconomic theory and policy-oriented courses for undergraduate and graduate students. | Teaching Philosophy
|
| M.A., University of Virginia | B.A., Framingham State College | Research Interests
| Mitigating Survey Bias | Applied Microeconomics | ||||||||
| rwilson@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?hl=en&user=ZcDDHhcAAAAJ | R. Lainie Wilson | Harris | Professor | 912-478-5435 | Parker College of Business Building Rm 2211 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | School of Accountancy | R. Lainie Wilson Harris is a distinguished legal professional and academic currently serving as a Lecturer at the School of Accountancy, Parker College of Business, Georgia Southern University. Lainie has extensive experience in both academia and legal practice. Each semester, she teaches Legal Environment of Business in multiple formats, and will be teaching the course in Waterford, Ireland as part of USG Goes Global Summer 2025 program. | Teaching Philosophy
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| aellis@georgiasouthern.edu | Amie | Ellis | Senior Lecturer | 912-478-7738 | Parker College of Business 1132 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Logistics & Supply Chain Management | Experienced Lecturer in the higher education industry with a demonstrated history of nearly 20 years in leadership positions at General Motors Corporation, Delphi Corporation, and Group Schneider. Skilled in Lean Six Sigma, Continuous Improvement, Statistical Data Analysis, Root Cause Analysis, and Quality Management. Practicing academic with a MS focused in Manufacturing Management from Kettering University formerly GMI Engineering & Management Institute. | Teaching Philosophy
|
| B.S. Industrial Engineering - State University of New York at Buffalo | Research Interests
| Process Improvement | Quality Management | Operations Management | ||||||||
| sellis@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?hl=en&user=V7eLViEAAAAJ | Scott | Ellis | Professor and Department Chair | 912-478-3371 | PCOB 3309A | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Logistics & Supply Chain Management | Scott C. Ellis is a Professor and Chair of the Logistics and Supply Chain Management Department at Georgia Southern University. Previously, Scott held tenure-track appointments in supply chain management at the University of Kentucky and Clemson University. Dr. Ellis holds a B.S. in electrical engineering from GMI Engineering and Management Institute, an M.S. in manufacturing management from Kettering University, and a Ph.D. in supply chain management from the State University of New York at Buffalo (University at Buffalo). Complementing his academic background, Scott has 18 years of managerial experience in the automotive industry at General Motors and Delphi Corporations. | Teaching Philosophy
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| Research Interests
| Supply risk | Supplier-driven innovation | Buyer-supplier interactions | Supply chain technologies | |||||||
| diyengar@georgiasouthern.edu | Deepak | Lyengar | Professor and Masters and Certificate Program Advisor | 912-478-6019 | Statesboro / Savannah | Armstrong Campus, Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Logistics & Supply Chain Management | Deepak Iyengar, professor, focuses his research and teaching in the areas of bottom-of-the pyramid supply chains and last-mile logistics. He is currently the Program Advisor for the Masters and Certificate programs in Logistics and Supply Chain Management.He has taught in academic institutions in the U.S., India, and Qatar including University of Kentucky, Indian Institute of Management Indore, Qatar University, Central Washington University, and Florida Southern College prior to joining Georgia Southern University. His industry experience includes working in Glaxo India Limited and Group Usha. He is an advocate of quality management and has taught courses and led projects in lean six sigma. | Teaching Philosophy
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| MIB, Indian Institute of Foreign Trade | B.Com (Hons)., IIMC, Osmania University | Research Interests
| last-mile logistics | |||||||||
| crossetti@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?hl=en&user=_MXfeR4AAAAJ | Christian | Rossetti | Associate Professor | 912-478-0756 | PCOB 3309 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Logistics & Supply Chain Management | Researcher and educator in the field of Strategic Sourcing, Supply Chain, and Logistics. | Teaching Philosophy
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| MS in Operations and Information Technology (Worcester Polytechnic Institute) | Research Interests
| Logistics Costs | Supply Chain Management | Empirical Methods | The Southern Center for Logistics and Intermodal Transportation | ||||||
| mcuellar@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/parker/isa/michaelcuellar/ | Michael | Cuellar | Professor | 912-478-4060 | PCOB 2222 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Information Systems & Analytics | Michael Cuellar was previously at North Carolina Central University before coming to Georgia Southern. Prior to entering academia, he spent 25 years in industry working for such firms as EDS, Computer Sciences Corporation, and Lockheed. In industry, he was a programmer, team leader, project/program manager and engagement manager. He has experience in outsourcing relationship sales and management. His research interests include the philosophy, social theory and ethics for information systems, scholarly capital and the deaf effect in project management. He is a member of Project Management International and the Association for Information Systems | Teaching Philosophy
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| MS (Computer Information Systems), Georgia State University, 2004 | BSBA (Finance), University of Central Florida, 1976 | Research Interests
| Philosophy and Social Theory of Information Systems | Scholarly Capital of Researchers | The Deaf Effect in Project Management | ||||||
| mtabatabaei@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/parker/isa/manouchehr-tabatabaei/ | Manouchehr | Tabatabaei | Information Systems and Analytics | 912-478-7425 | PCOB 3302 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | Department of Information Systems & Analytics | Manouchehr Tabatabaei is on the faculty of Information Systems and Analytics Department, Parker College of Business at Georgia Southern University where he teaches online and offline courses. He received his Ph.D. in Computer Information Systems from Arizona State University. | Teaching Philosophy
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| M.B.A., Golder Gate University (Management Information Systems) | B.S., California State University (Computer Science) | B.S., California State University (Management Information Systems) | Research Interests
| Interface Design & Human-Computer Interaction | Project Management | Online Learning | Information Systems Education | ||||
| charvey@georgiasouthern.edu | Craig | Harvey | Dean | 912-478-7412 | IT 3400 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Manufacturing Engineering | Craig M. Harvey, PhD, PE (WY #5991) is Dean of the Allen E. Paulson College of Engineering and Computing at Georgia Southern University. He earned his MS and PhD in Industrial Engineering from Purdue University and his bachelor’s in industrial engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology. He served previously as the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs for the Louisiana State University College of Engineering. Dr. Harvey teaches and conducts research in industrial and human factors engineering. His research includes engineering design process, medical product usability, health care productivity, construction safety, control room management, and engineering education. | Teaching Philosophy
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| MS in Industrial Engineering | PhD in Industrial Engineering | Research Interests
| medical product usability | control room management | engineering education | |||||||
| aroyster@georgiasouthern.edu | Amari` | Royster | Recruitment and Engagement Coordinator | 912-478-7443 | IT Building | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Deans Suite | Amari Royster is the Recruitment and Engagement Coordinator for the College of Engineering and Computing at Georgia Southern University. In this role, Amari is responsible for overseeing recruitment efforts and fostering engagement with prospective students. Her background in communications and passion for education drive her to connect students with the opportunities and resources available at the Allen E. Paulson College of Engineering and Computing. |
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| jkhairabadi@georgiasouthern.edu | Jahangir | Khairabadi | Electrical & Computer Engineering Lab Supervisor | 912-478-8900 | Allen E. Paulson Engineering Building Room 2106A | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering | MSEE Georgia Southern University | Teaching Philosophy
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| Research Interests
| Electrical Engineering Lab | |||||||||||
| frios@georgiasouthern.edu | Fernando | Rios | Professor, Electrical and Computer Engineering | 912-478-5005 | IT Building Room 1329 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering | Fernando Rios is a Full Professor in the ECE Department at GSU. His scholarship can be classified into three main categories: Robotics and Control, Applications of AI, Embedded Systems Design and Engineering Education. In these areas he has published more than 60 articles in peer reviewed conferences and journals and he has been successful in receiving internal and external funding research grants. Dr. Rios’ main scholarship accomplishment at GSU has been to establish the formation of the robotics research group and the creation of the Robotics and Intelligent Operation Systems (RIOS) Laboratory at GSU. | Teaching Philosophy
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| M.S. Electrical Engineering, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA; 1998 | M.S. Microelectronics, National Institute of Astrophysics, Optics and Electronics, Puebla, Mexico; 1970 | B.Sc. Electronics Engineering, National Polytechnic Institute, Mexico; 1968 | Research Interests
| Applications of Artificial Intelligence | Embedded Systems | Engineering Education | Robotics and Intelligent Operation Systems (RIOS) Laboratory | |||||
| naslsabbaghpourhokma@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.linkedin.com/in/neda-sabbaghpour-73262238/ | Neda | Aslsabbaghpourhokmabadi | Assistant Professor | 912-478-6994 | IT Building #2106 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Information Technology | I have been teaching in the IT department since 2018, after transitioning from a career in the Canadian industry. I hold both graduate and undergraduate degrees in Computer Science, with a focus on computer vision and machine learning. Outside of work, I enjoy spending quality time with my family and friends. | Teaching Philosophy
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| hwimmer@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/cec/it/faculty/hayden-wimmer/ | Hayden | Wimmer | Professor | 912-478-4121 | IT 2102 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing, Institute for Health Logistics and Analytics | Department of Information Technology | Hayden Wimmer has a Ph.D. in Information Systems based in data mining and artificial intelligence. He also holds an M.S.in Information Systems, an M.B.A. and a B.S. in Information Systems. He brings more than a decade of industry experience into the classroom. Dr. Wimmer has multiple journal publications related to multi-agent systems, artificial intelligence, data science, and I.S. education. He has taught courses such as programming, database management, project management, I.T. infrastructure, and healthcare informatics. His research is published in top journals and Dr. Wimmer’s research and outreach has been funded for nearly $3 million as PI/Co-PI. | Teaching Philosophy
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| Research Interests
| Data Science | Cyber Security | Machine Learning | Large Language Models (LLM) | Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, and Cyber Security Laboratory (DAC-lab) | ||||||
| hgong@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=qtmj5jIAAAAJ&hl=en | Haijun | Gong | Associate Professor of Manufacturing Engineering | 912-478-2554 | ERB 2067 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Manufacturing Engineering | Dr. Gong’s research interest concentrates on 3D printing metals and polymers and their mechanical properties. He is interested in applying the 3D printing for advanced manufacturing. Dr. Gong is also interested in lightweight structure design and high-performance material applications. | Teaching Philosophy
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| Research Interests
| 3D Printing | Lightweight Design | Mechanical Characterization | Manufacturing (Solid Modeling, 3D Scanning, 3D Printing, CNC Machining) | |||||||
| ssiddiqui@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/salman-a-siddiqui-2 | Salman | Siddiqui | Senior Lecturer of Electrical and Computer Engineering | 912-478-5612 | IT Building, Room 1323 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering | Dr. Salman Siddiqui, a Senior Lecturer in Electrical and Computer Engineering, has served at Georgia Southern University since 2013. He earned his B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from Florida State University. Recognized for his dedication to student success and excellence in teaching, he has received several honors, including the “Outstanding Advocate for First-Year Students” award (2018), the “College of Engineering and Computing’s Faculty Award for Teaching” (2019), and the “University Awards of Excellence for Teaching” (2024). Dr. Siddiqui advises the IEEE Robotics Club, and his work focuses on robotic systems, STEM outreach, and the integration of innovative teaching methods into classroom instruction. | Teaching Philosophy
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| M.S., Florida State University, 2002 | B.S., Florida State University, 2000 | Research Interests
| Applications of Robotic Systems | ||||||||
| blvlcek@georgiasouthern.edu | Brian | Vlcek | Professor, Department Chair of Mechanical Engineering | 912-478-5721 | Engineering Building 2121 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Mechanical Engineering | Dr. Brian L. Vlcek is Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Georgia Southern University in Statesboro Georgia. His general area of research interest has been Tribology with emphasis on fatigue failure, rolling element bearing failure, probabilistic and Weibull modeling of fatigue failure, tribological properties of biolubricants and biofuel-contaminants, vapor lubrication, and surface analysis. Dr. Vlcek has been on the faculty of Georgia Southern since 1997 and has served as department chair since 2013. | Teaching Philosophy
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| MS Mechanical Engineering Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute | PhD Mechanical Engineering Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute | Research Interests
| Probabilistic and Weibull Modeling of Fatigue Failure | Sudden Death Testing | Vapor Lubrication | Wear with BioFuels and BioLubricants | ||||||
| bminhas@georgiasouthern.edu | Babar | Minhas | Visiting Instructor | 912-478-1313 | IT Bldg, Room 1301 A | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering | Babar K. Minhas is a Visiting Instructor at the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. He received his Ph.D. from the University of New Mexico and currently teaches at the Statesboro Campus. | Teaching Philosophy
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| Research Interests
| Metamaterials | Optical Metrology | ||||||||||
| svinaykumar@georgiasouthern.edu | Sajina | Vinaykumar | Lecturer | 912-478-5950 | Room 270, Science Center, Savannah Campus. IT Building: 2124 — Statesboro | Armstrong Campus, Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Information Technology | I have completed my EDUCATION at Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA• Master of Science in Information Technology May 2019 I also completed the following certifications• Graduate Certificate in Health Information Technology • Graduate Certificate in Enterprise IT Management • Graduate Certificate in Information Technology Foundation • Software Productivity Certificate (Microsoft Office Productivity) I completed the following education degrees from India• Master of Arts, University of Kannur, India • Master Education, University of Mangalore, India • Bachelor of Education, University of Mangalore • Bachelor of Arts, University of Calicut | Teaching Philosophy
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| Master's in Education | M.A. in Literature | Research Interests
| Web Development | Project Management | ||||||||
| htaheri@georgiasouthern.edu | Hossein | Taheri | Associate Professor | 912-478-7463 | Engineering and Research Building - Room 2055 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Manufacturing Engineering | Dr. Hossein Taheri is an associate professor in the Department of Manufacturing Engineering at Georgia Southern University and the director of the Laboratory for Advanced NonDestructive Testing, In-situ monitoring and Evaluation (LANDTIE). He is also an affiliated faculty member of the Institute for Health Logistics and Analytics (IHLA). He completed his Ph.D. in Mechanical and Electrical Engineering at Iowa State University's Center for Nondestructive Evaluation (CNDE). His research focuses on nondestructive evaluation, advanced manufacturing, and material characterization, as well as smart sensing and technologies supporting robust and efficient systems in both manufacturing and health logistics applications. | Teaching Philosophy
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| Ph.D., Electrical Engineering, Iowa State University, 2018 | Research Interests
| Nondestructive Evaluation (NDE) | Smart and Sustainable Manufacturing | Structural Health Monitoring | Material Characterization | Laboratory for Advanced NonDestructive Testing, In-situ monitoring and Evaluation (LANDTIE) | ||||||
| LChen@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/lei-chen-2#:~:text=Lei%20Chen%20is%20Tenured%20Full,China%20in%202000%2C%20and%20PhD. | Lei | Chen | Professor, Graduate Program Director | 912-478-1256 | IT Building 2118 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Information Technology | Dr. Lei Chen is a Tenured Full Professor and Graduate Program Director in the Department of Information Technology at Georgia Southern University. He earned his B.Eng. in Computer Science in 2000 and Ph.D. from Auburn University in 2007. Before joining Georgia Southern in 2015, he was a Tenured Associate Professor and Graduate Program Coordinator at Sam Houston State University. Dr. Chen’s research focuses on security, privacy, and digital forensics in networks, cloud, and wireless systems, with work in AI and multimedia networking. He has published 150+ scholarly works and received over $3M in research funding, including grants from the NSA and NSF. | Teaching Philosophy
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| Full Professor and Secured Tenure at Georgia Southern (2018) and at Sam Houston State University (2013) | Research Interests
| Digital Forensics | AI & Machine Learning | ||||||||
| amohamed@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?hl=en&user=qJ25hUMAAAAJ&sortby=pubdate&view_op=list_works&citft=1&citft=2&citft=3&email_for_op=atefshalan%40gmail.com&gmla=AL3_zijdm5W4-bM17F4v9IWTwjXRr4KJqM5oUjN6OQtO_kbkh77jyA9IpMDmr0kO1eg7f2zh74KD1CQ-NgA4IAH6v6ZClRZEDGYZI_UNpGqLIJGT631Xk5znFvobXaCrxmkaeNuglU1umeG5yGx69g0hkzRZKSGM9P8LU3DZOCqpFuOne_xlHlPPM1B0fIHnZpFm30i74iH6L3dyJLFqQbUohaAI-FRy89K_36IKM4Jc-4gm | Atef | Mohamed | 912-478-7756 | IT 2110 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Information Technology | Dr. Atef Shalan is an Assistant Professor of Information Technology at Georgia Southern University. He earned his PhD in Computer Science from Queen’s University, Canada, and an MSc in Artificial Intelligence from Lakehead University, Canada. With over a decade in higher education and industry experience, Dr. Shalan focuses on system reliability, software architecture, fault tolerance, and failure prediction. He has published research and delivered talks globally. Dr. Shalan teaches programming, software engineering, cybersecurity, and data analytics at undergraduate and graduate levels. | Teaching Philosophy
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| MSc in Computer Science, Lakehead University, Thunderbay Ontario Canada, 2006 | BSc in Computer Science, Ain Shams University, Cairo Egypt, 1993 | Research Interests
| Sysrtem Reliability | Cyber Security | AI | Code Analytics | Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, and Cyber Security Laboratory (DAC-lab) | |||||
| ssalekeen@georgiasouthern.edu | Sirajus | Salekeeb | Assistant Professor | 912-478-2347 | Room 3016, IT Building | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Mechanical Engineering | Completed BS in Mechanical Engineering from Bangladesh, then completed MS and D. SC in Mechanical Engineering from United States. Two years of Industrial experience as Mechanical Design Engineer and about 24 years teaching experiences. | Teaching Philosophy
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| M. Sc. in Mechanical Engineerig | D. Sc (Doctor of Science) in Mechanical Engineering | Research Interests
| Mechanical Design and FEA | Statistical Analysis of experimental data | Nanocomposite Material Science Laboratory | |||||||
| jongyeopkim@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=GnOEPTsAAAAJ&hl=en | Jongyeop | Kim | Assistant Professor of Information Technology | 912-478-7413 | IT 2124 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Information Technology | JONGYEOP KIM received the B.Sc. degree in computer science from Korea National Open University, Seoul, South Korea, and the M.Sc. and Ph.D. degrees in computer science from Oklahoma State University. His research interests include Machine Learning, Deep Learning, Image & Signal Processing, Blockchain Technology, Cybersecurity, Quantum Computing, and Big Data Analytics, with a focus on application design that leverages IT technologies across various domains. | Teaching Philosophy
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| MS, Computer Science, Oklahoma State University, 2009. | BS, Computer Science,Korea National Open University, 1997. | Research Interests
| Block Chain Technology Applications | Image & Signal Processing | Cyber Security | Quantum Algorithms | |||||
| mjeong@georgiasouthern.edu | M. Myung | Jeong | Associate Professor | 912-478-7284 | ENGR 1125 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Civil Engineering & Construction | Dr. Jeong is an Associate Professor in the Department of Civil Engineering and Construction. As a program coordinator for the Construction Engineering program, he teaches courses for both the Civil Engineering and Construction Management programs. Prior to joining Georgia Southern, he spent two years as a project manager and pavement specialist with an engineering consulting firm: Wood plc. (formerly AMEC Forster Wheeler) | Teaching Philosophy
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| M.S., Virginia Tech, 2005 | B.S., SungKyunKwan University, S. Korea, 1998 | Research Interests
| Construction Quality Assurance | Construction Safety | Engineering Education | Asphalt Laboratory | ||||||
| tmurphy@georgiasouthern.edu | Thomas | Murphy | Associate Professor | 912-344-2709 | University Hall 251 | Armstrong Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering | Dr. Thomas Murphy received his Ph.D. degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the University of Florida. He is currently an Associate Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Georgia Southern University-Armstrong Campus. His research interests are in digital systems, embedded systems, control systems, signal processing, engineering education, and open educational resources. He is a member of The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) and the IEEE Education Society. He currently teaches courses in Computing for Engineers, Logic Circuit Design, Digital Design Lab, Introduction to Signal Processing, Circuit Analysis, and Linear Systems courses | Teaching Philosophy
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| Research Interests
| Signal processing | Open educational resources | ||||||||||
| doyunlee@georgiasouthern.edu | https://www.linkedin.com/in/doyun-lee-186089239/ | Doyun | Lee | Assistant Professor | 912-478-6028 | 1101H Engineering Building | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Civil Engineering & Construction | Dr. Lee's research focuses on advancing robotics equipped with visual sensors to navigate construction environments, understand surrounding semantics, and perform complex construction tasks. His recent work includes developing real-time automated mobile robotic systems to improve project outcomes, address safety concerns, and mitigate labor shortages.At Georgia Southern, Dr. Lee will expand his research on computer vision-based robotics in construction, with a focus on Autonomous Robotic Infrastructure Maintenance (ARIM). His lab aims to create a comprehensive framework for ARIM, with potential applications including automated welding, crack detection and repair, and data-driven pipe inspection systems. | Teaching Philosophy
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| M.S. in Electrical Engineering at North Carolina State University | M.S. in Architectural Engineering at Kyung Hee University | B.A. in Architectural Engineering at Kyung Hee University | Research Interests
| Construction Robotics | Computer Vision | Automated Welding | Visual Inspection | Automation, Robotics and Computer Integrated Manufacturing Laboratory, Construction Automation & Robotics | |||
| mxu@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=BCZ3Li4AAAAJ&hl=en&authuser=1 | Mingzhi | Xu | Associate Professor | 912-478-8449 | ERB 3059 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Mechanical Engineering | Mingzhi Xu received his Ph.D. in Metallurgical Engineering at Missouri University of Science and Technology in 2015. His research on ferrous metal casting has won multiple national awards. He is the Foundry Educational Foundation (FEF) Key Professor and the Association for Iron & Steel Technology (AIST) Steel Professor at Georgia Southern. He teaches materials science, materials process, and metal casting/steel making related courses on Statesboro campus. | Teaching Philosophy
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| B.S., Xi'an Jiaotong University, 2010 | Research Interests
| metal casting | steel making | material characterization | manufacturing | Carruth Foundry Lab | |||||
| nmoazzam@georgiasouhern.edu | Nick | Moazzam | Senior Lecturer of Electrical and Computer Engineering | 912-478-1311 | IT Building, Statesboro, Room 1301 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering | Nick H. Moazzam is an alum of University of New South Wales, Australia and is a Senior Lecturer of Electrical Engineering in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. Dr. Moazzam teaches undergraduate courses on Statesboro campus. | Teaching Philosophy
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| Research Interests
| Electrical Engineering Lab | |||||||||||
| hahmed@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?hl=en&user=HQVX_yMAAAAJ&view_op=list_works&sortby=pubdate | Hossain | Ahmed | Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering | 912-478-8537 | I.T. Building, Statesboro Campus, Statesboro, GA 30460 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Mechanical Engineering | Dr. Ahmed has approximately 18 years of industrial and academic experience, with over 10 years dedicated to computational and experimental nondestructive evaluation, structural health monitoring, mechatronics, and automation. His research group at the MetaMaterials and Mechanical Structure Research Laboratory (M3SR) focuses on acoustic metamaterials, additive manufacturing, AI-based process automation, composite structures, and structural health of additively manufactured parts and electrochemical devices. | Teaching Philosophy
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| M.S. in Aerospace Engineering, University of South Carolina, 2016 | M.B.A. in Management, University of Dhaka, 2014 | B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, 2004 | Research Interests
| Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) | SHM of Additive Manufacturing | SHM of Lithium Ion Batteries | Carbon Fiber Composite Materials | Metamaterials and Mechanical Structure Research Lab | |||
| mehedihassan@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=GT4p3rsAAAAJ&hl=en | Mehedi | Hassan | 912-478-5993 | IT Building: Room # 2108 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Information Technology | Mehedi is a Visiting Instructor of Information Technology at Georgia Southern University. He earned his Ph.D. in Computer Science in 2024 and his M.Sc. in 2021, both from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. He obtained his B.Sc. in Computer Science and Engineering in 2016 at the Islamic University of Technology, Bangladesh. His research interests lie in network security, complex systems, and machine learning. | Teaching Philosophy
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| M.Sc. in Computer Science, University of Louisiana at Lafayette, 2021 | B.Sc. in Computer Science and Engineering, Islamic University of Technology, 2016 | Research Interests
| Complex Systems | Machine Learning | ||||||||
| jqing@georgiasouthern.edu | Jingjing | Qing | Associate Professor (AIST Foundation Steel Professor) | 912-478-6013 | ERB 2022 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Manufacturing Engineering | Dr. Qing graduated with a PhD degree in Materials Science & Engineering from Missouri S&T in 2016. She is an AIST Foundation Steel Professor. Before joining Georgia Southern, she was a Research Assistant Professor and a Senior Research Specialist on Electron Microscopes at Missouri S&T. She has over 14 years experience on ferrous metallurgy research, focused on characterizations using microscopies (SEM, TEM and optical microscopy). Her research on cast irons won 2019 American Foundry Society Howard F. Taylor Award. She is the first author of three AFS best paper awards . She has over 35 publications on ferrous metals. Her research on ferrous metals are funded by NSF, AIST, AFS and DIS. | Teaching Philosophy
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| BS Materials Science & Engineering from Xi'an Jiaotong University in China, 2006-2010 | Research Interests
| Microstructure impacts on properties | Solidification of metals | Materials Characterization | Electron microscopy and optical microscopy | Materials Research Laboratory | ||||||
| charvey@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1HsUItY3Ur6FEJjEGNEYojXzRQcdRdLzn | Craig | Harvey | Dean, College of Engineering and Computing | 912-478-7412 | IT 3400 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Manufacturing Engineering | Craig M. Harvey, PhD, PE (WY #5991) is Dean of the Allen E. Paulson College of Engineering and Computing at Georgia Southern University. He earned his MS and PhD in Industrial Engineering from Purdue University and his bachelor’s in industrial engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology. He served previously as the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs for the Louisiana State University College of Engineering. Dr. Harvey teaches and conducts research in industrial and human factors engineering. His research includes engineering design process, medical product usability, health care productivity, construction safety, control room management, and engineering education. | Collaborative learning |
| MS in Industrial Engineering | PhD in Industrial Engineering | Research Interests
| medical product usability | control room management | engineering education | ||||||
| aroyster@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1eBBVfgx4Dg7FqCKp13E87VnTSC7C6Lkj | Amari` | Royster | Recruitment and Engagement Coordinator | 912-478-7443 | IT Building | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Deans Suite | Amari Royster is the Recruitment and Engagement Coordinator for the College of Engineering and Computing at Georgia Southern University. In this role, Amari is responsible for overseeing recruitment efforts and fostering engagement with prospective students. Her background in communications and passion for education drive her to connect students with the opportunities and resources available at the Allen E. Paulson College of Engineering and Computing. |
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| jkhairabadi@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1SinceZhB6-Iic49WhXGl81UxSEkgODMG | Jahangir | Khairabadi | Electrical & Computer Engineering Lab Supervisor | 912-478-8900 | Allen E. Paulson Engineering Building Room 2106A | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering | MSEE Georgia Southern University | Endure the Process of Excellence! |
| Research Interests
| Electrical Engineering Lab | ||||||||||
| frios@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=14jG0ErwgesMCVl9aC0ZzLX8sulbiciYb | Fernando | Rios | Professor, Electrical and Computer Engineering | 912-478-5005 | IT Building Room 1329 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering | Fernando Rios is a Full Professor in the ECE Department at GSU. His scholarship can be classified into three main categories: Robotics and Control, Applications of AI, Embedded Systems Design and Engineering Education. In these areas he has published more than 60 articles in peer reviewed conferences and journals and he has been successful in receiving internal and external funding research grants. Dr. Rios’ main scholarship accomplishment at GSU has been to establish the formation of the robotics research group and the creation of the Robotics and Intelligent Operation Systems (RIOS) Laboratory at GSU. | I am committed to quality teaching and student-centered learning through interactive teaching, participation, motivation, inspiration, and mentoring. I have tried to develop in my students lifelong learning skills that would be applicable to their professional life. I have a compelling performance in teaching, for which I can list: a)The creation of original course material that includes new lectures, lab manuals, and simulation programs; b)The creation of new courses, c) Been an instructor and supervisor for teams of students doing their capstone senior design projects, d) Been faculty advisor for the IEEE student branch and the Robotics Club and other academic student groups. |
| M.S. Electrical Engineering, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA; 1998 | M.S. Microelectronics, National Institute of Astrophysics, Optics and Electronics, Puebla, Mexico; 1970 | B.Sc. Electronics Engineering, National Polytechnic Institute, Mexico; 1968 | Research Interests
| Applications of Artificial Intelligence | Embedded Systems | Engineering Education | Robotics and Intelligent Operation Systems (RIOS) Laboratory | ||||
| naslsabbaghpourhokma@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1AeVESmpmxRPx6JJb1vAJCTXCpOXnlKzs | Neda | Aslsabbaghpourhokmabadi | Assistant Professor | 912-478-6994 | IT Building #2106 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Information Technology | I have been teaching in the IT department since 2018, after transitioning from a career in the Canadian industry. I hold both graduate and undergraduate degrees in Computer Science, with a focus on computer vision and machine learning. Outside of work, I enjoy spending quality time with my family and friends. | My teaching philosophy focuses on creating an inclusive and engaging learning environment where students feel valued and motivated to reach their full potential. I believe in fostering critical thinking, encouraging active participation, and promoting collaborative learning. My goal is to make complex concepts accessible by connecting theory to real-world applications and presenting diverse perspectives that stimulate curiosity. I view education as a dynamic, two-way process in which both students and I learn from one another. I strive to cultivate a classroom culture that emphasizes curiosity, respect, and lifelong learning. |
| Research Interests
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| hwimmer@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=18l3wWJN12qxdS_3TK3WfPJ8Xi2Lof33z | Hayden | Wimmer | Professor | 912-478-4121 | IT 2102 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing, Institute for Health Logistics and Analytics | Department of Information Technology | Hayden Wimmer has a Ph.D. in Information Systems based in data mining and artificial intelligence. He also holds an M.S.in Information Systems, an M.B.A. and a B.S. in Information Systems. He brings more than a decade of industry experience into the classroom. Dr. Wimmer has multiple journal publications related to multi-agent systems, artificial intelligence, data science, and I.S. education. He has taught courses such as programming, database management, project management, I.T. infrastructure, and healthcare informatics. His research is published in top journals and Dr. Wimmer’s research and outreach has been funded for nearly $3 million as PI/Co-PI. | Hayden Wimmer has a Ph.D. in Information Systems based in data mining and artificial intelligence. He also holds an M.S.in Information Systems, an M.B.A. and a B.S. in Information Systems. He brings more than a decade of industry experience into the classroom. Dr. Wimmer has multiple journal publications related to multi-agent systems, artificial intelligence, data science, and I.S. education. He has taught courses such as programming, database management, project management, I.T. infrastructure, and healthcare informatics. His research is published in top journals and Dr. Wimmer’s research and outreach has been funded for nearly $3 million as PI/Co-PI. |
| Research Interests
| Data Science | Cyber Security | Machine Learning | Large Language Models (LLM) | Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, and Cyber Security Laboratory (DAC-lab) | ||||||
| hgong@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1-iXbnaHldshoZVD4T_gryCjHBxuQH-H0 | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=qtmj5jIAAAAJ&hl=en | Haijun | Gong | Associate Professor of Manufacturing Engineering | 912-478-2554 | ERB 2067 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Manufacturing Engineering | Dr. Gong’s research interest concentrates on 3D printing metals and polymers and their mechanical properties. He is interested in applying the 3D printing for advanced manufacturing. Dr. Gong is also interested in lightweight structure design and high-performance material applications. | My teaching philosophy for additive manufacturing focuses on fostering creativity, technical expertise, and problem-solving skills. I emphasize hands-on learning, enabling students to design, prototype, and iterate using AM technologies. By integrating interdisciplinary knowledge, from material science to design optimization, I encourage innovative thinking and real-world application. I strive to create an inclusive, collaborative environment that nurtures curiosity and critical analysis, preparing students to adapt and lead in the dynamic field of additive manufacturing. |
| Research Interests
| 3D Printing | Lightweight Design | Mechanical Characterization | Manufacturing (Solid Modeling, 3D Scanning, 3D Printing, CNC Machining) | ||||||
| ssiddiqui@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=14nJAnXMbsGOgwMV4dSQA8SCnqHJwAPjx | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/salman-a-siddiqui-2 | Salman | Siddiqui | Senior Lecturer of Electrical and Computer Engineering | 912-478-5612 | IT Building, Room 1323 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering | Dr. Salman Siddiqui, a Senior Lecturer in Electrical and Computer Engineering, has served at Georgia Southern University since 2013. He earned his B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from Florida State University. Recognized for his dedication to student success and excellence in teaching, he has received several honors, including the “Outstanding Advocate for First-Year Students” award (2018), the “College of Engineering and Computing’s Faculty Award for Teaching” (2019), and the “University Awards of Excellence for Teaching” (2024). Dr. Siddiqui advises the IEEE Robotics Club, and his work focuses on robotic systems, STEM outreach, and the integration of innovative teaching methods into classroom instruction. | I believe every student can learn and succeed with the right support. Inspired by Einstein’s view that teaching is about creating conditions for learning, I see my role as a facilitator who fosters an inclusive, welcoming environment tailored to diverse learning styles and aspirations. By sparking curiosity and encouraging experiential learning, I aim to build skills, confidence, and a passion for lifelong learning. Committed to professional growth, I model adaptability and critical thinking, empowering students to collaborate, think critically, and thrive in a complex world, reflecting Georgia Southern University’s vision: “People. Purpose. Action.” |
| M.S., Florida State University, 2002 | B.S., Florida State University, 2000 | Research Interests
| Applications of Robotic Systems | |||||||
| blvlcek@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1ogPADor3xiIexI92VKvCi7UIeJdaQsZO | Brian | Vlcek | Professor and Department Chair of Mechanical Engineering | 912-478-5721 | Engineering Building 2121 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Mechanical Engineering | Dr. Brian L. Vlcek is Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Georgia Southern University in Statesboro Georgia. His general area of research interest has been Tribology with emphasis on fatigue failure, rolling element bearing failure, probabilistic and Weibull modeling of fatigue failure, tribological properties of biolubricants and biofuel-contaminants, vapor lubrication, and surface analysis. Dr. Vlcek has been on the faculty of Georgia Southern since 1997 and has served as department chair since 2013. | Teaching students how to learn on their own. |
| MS Mechanical Engineering Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute | PhD Mechanical Engineering Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute | Research Interests
| Probabilistic and Weibull Modeling of Fatigue Failure | Sudden Death Testing | Vapor Lubrication | Wear with BioFuels and BioLubricants | |||||
| bminhas@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1Zh7yqLjA2x2TfeM8MTlkeCGXlZIe7ugA | Babar | Minhas | Visiting Instructor | 912-478-1313 | IT Bldg, Room 1301 A | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering | Babar K. Minhas is a Visiting Instructor at the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. He received his Ph.D. from the University of New Mexico and currently teaches at the Statesboro Campus. | As a course instructor of engineering subjects, I want my students to grasp the fundamental concepts of the subject, to be able to see the practical applications of the course material, to solve real world engineering problems and to have a desire to learn more about the subject being taught after the conclusion of the course. |
| Research Interests
| Metamaterials | Optical Metrology | |||||||||
| svinaykumar@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1ISMQ4390PfAY0ToMWb71C_gKG55Q8cr6 | Sajina | Vinaykumar | Lecturer | 912-478-5950 | Room 270, Science Center, Savannah Campus. IT Building: 2124 — Statesboro | Armstrong Campus, Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Information Technology | I have completed my EDUCATION at Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA• Master of Science in Information Technology May 2019 I also completed the following certifications• Graduate Certificate in Health Information Technology • Graduate Certificate in Enterprise IT Management • Graduate Certificate in Information Technology Foundation • Software Productivity Certificate (Microsoft Office Productivity) I completed the following education degrees from India• Master of Arts, University of Kannur, India • Master Education, University of Mangalore, India • Bachelor of Education, University of Mangalore • Bachelor of Arts, University of Calicut | 1. I believe that a teacher should balance the different learning needs of students. 2. I help students with different learning methodologies:3. Encourage student Interactions: 4. Create an active learning environment:5. Dedication to work: |
| Master's in Education | M.A. in Literature | Research Interests
| Web Development | Project Management | |||||||
| htaheri@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1_GFpmY5QQOJIqpWCL5c6ib6bxVt4hPMq | Hossein | Taheri | Associate Professor | 912-478-7463 | Engineering and Research Building - Room 2055 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Manufacturing Engineering | Dr. Hossein Taheri is an associate professor in the Department of Manufacturing Engineering at Georgia Southern University and the director of the Laboratory for Advanced NonDestructive Testing, In-situ monitoring and Evaluation (LANDTIE). He is also an affiliated faculty member of the Institute for Health Logistics and Analytics (IHLA). He completed his Ph.D. in Mechanical and Electrical Engineering at Iowa State University's Center for Nondestructive Evaluation (CNDE). His research focuses on nondestructive evaluation, advanced manufacturing, and material characterization, as well as smart sensing and technologies supporting robust and efficient systems in both manufacturing and health logistics applications. | Dr. Taheri's focus of teaching and mentoring philosophy is to equip students with the knowledge and skills to foster critical thinking, experiential learning and problem solving from multiple perspectives. He believes in using multiple pathways for teaching, especially based on course content and fundamentals of Bloom’s Taxonomy. Therefore, Dr. Taheri integrates a variety of teaching methods including lectures, small group discussions for team-based learning, and the use of evidence-based learning technology in my teaching. |
| Ph.D., Electrical Engineering, Iowa State University, 2018 | Research Interests
| Nondestructive Evaluation (NDE) | Smart and Sustainable Manufacturing | Structural Health Monitoring | Material Characterization | Laboratory for Advanced NonDestructive Testing, In-situ monitoring and Evaluation (LANDTIE) | |||||
| LChen@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=13PWyWCzRjhMvkW_qX4qucJMhTgfGHDf8 | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/lei-chen-2#:~:text=Lei%20Chen%20is%20Tenured%20Full,China%20in%202000%2C%20and%20PhD. | Lei | Chen | Professor & Graduate Program Director | 912-478-1256 | IT Building 2118 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Information Technology | Dr. Lei Chen is a Tenured Full Professor and Graduate Program Director in the Department of Information Technology at Georgia Southern University. He earned his B.Eng. in Computer Science in 2000 and Ph.D. from Auburn University in 2007. Before joining Georgia Southern in 2015, he was a Tenured Associate Professor and Graduate Program Coordinator at Sam Houston State University. Dr. Chen’s research focuses on security, privacy, and digital forensics in networks, cloud, and wireless systems, with work in AI and multimedia networking. He has published 150+ scholarly works and received over $3M in research funding, including grants from the NSA and NSF. | My teaching philosophy centers on fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and practical application. I believe in creating an engaging, inclusive environment where students connect theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges. By integrating hands-on projects, collaborative learning, and emerging technologies, I encourage students to take ownership of their learning. My goal is to prepare students for dynamic IT careers by equipping them with technical expertise, adaptability, and a lifelong passion for learning. |
| Full Professor and Secured Tenure at Georgia Southern (2018) and at Sam Houston State University (2013) | Research Interests
| Digital Forensics | AI & Machine Learning | |||||||
| amohamed@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1uAYaYXjl7lokri8DdVhWWkiuBHYY1ZB7 | https://scholar.google.com/citations?hl=en&user=qJ25hUMAAAAJ&sortby=pubdate&view_op=list_works&citft=1&citft=2&citft=3&email_for_op=atefshalan%40gmail.com&gmla=AL3_zijdm5W4-bM17F4v9IWTwjXRr4KJqM5oUjN6OQtO_kbkh77jyA9IpMDmr0kO1eg7f2zh74KD1CQ-NgA4IAH6v6ZClRZEDGYZI_UNpGqLIJGT631Xk5znFvobXaCrxmkaeNuglU1umeG5yGx69g0hkzRZKSGM9P8LU3DZOCqpFuOne_xlHlPPM1B0fIHnZpFm30i74iH6L3dyJLFqQbUohaAI-FRy89K_36IKM4Jc-4gm | Atef | Mohamed | 912-478-7756 | IT 2110 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Information Technology | Dr. Atef Shalan is an Assistant Professor of Information Technology at Georgia Southern University. He earned his PhD in Computer Science from Queen’s University, Canada, and an MSc in Artificial Intelligence from Lakehead University, Canada. With over a decade in higher education and industry experience, Dr. Shalan focuses on system reliability, software architecture, fault tolerance, and failure prediction. He has published research and delivered talks globally. Dr. Shalan teaches programming, software engineering, cybersecurity, and data analytics at undergraduate and graduate levels. | Teaching in computer science and software engineering prepares future IT leaders and drives innovation across fields. As a student, I learned that effective teaching inspires enthusiasm for learning, shaping my philosophy to engage and motivate students. Before earning my Ph.D., I foster curiosity by connecting theory to practical applications and encouraging exploration of broader concepts. My industrial expertise enhances coursework relevance, and I support students through active communication channels. I also mentor graduate students, helping them define problems and develop innovative solutions. Teaching is fulfilling, and I look forward to fostering student success. |
| MSc in Computer Science, Lakehead University, Thunderbay Ontario Canada, 2006 | BSc in Computer Science, Ain Shams University, Cairo Egypt, 1993 | Research Interests
| Sysrtem Reliability | Cyber Security | AI | Code Analytics | Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, and Cyber Security Laboratory (DAC-lab) | ||||
| ssalekeen@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1fGUKDi6x-2xwfNQPHGP5Dw4xy4fkjT3H | Sirajus | Salekeeb | Assistant Professor | 912-478-2347 | Room 3016, IT Building | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Mechanical Engineering | Completed BS in Mechanical Engineering from Bangladesh, then completed MS and D. SC in Mechanical Engineering from United States. Two years of Industrial experience as Mechanical Design Engineer and about 24 years teaching experiences. | To provide student focused career ready learning environment and to prepare students with growth mindset, provide equal opportunity for everyone to grow. |
| M. Sc. in Mechanical Engineerig | D. Sc (Doctor of Science) in Mechanical Engineering | Research Interests
| Mechanical Design and FEA | Statistical Analysis of experimental data | Nanocomposite Material Science Laboratory | ||||||
| jongyeopkim@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1ovFJdv0TS62Dl7WIjyCz-ORv-U2hcodp | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=GnOEPTsAAAAJ&hl=en | Jongyeop | Kim | Assistant Professor of Information Technology | 912-478-7413 | IT 2124 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Information Technology | JONGYEOP KIM received the B.Sc. degree in computer science from Korea National Open University, Seoul, South Korea, and the M.Sc. and Ph.D. degrees in computer science from Oklahoma State University. His research interests include Machine Learning, Deep Learning, Image & Signal Processing, Blockchain Technology, Cybersecurity, Quantum Computing, and Big Data Analytics, with a focus on application design that leverages IT technologies across various domains. | My teaching philosophy centers on empowering students to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge of IT technologies and practical problem-solving, while equipping them to leverage the latest tools and platforms to thrive in an ever-evolving technological landscape. Additionally, it aims to equip students with the skills required to excel in industry or academia. |
| MS, Computer Science, Oklahoma State University, 2009. | BS, Computer Science,Korea National Open University, 1997. | Research Interests
| Block Chain Technology Applications | Image & Signal Processing | Cyber Security | Quantum Algorithms | ||||
| mjeong@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1C94C-sMPRkrIm0H6ffiN1W5PUFG-XEsr | M. Myung | Jeong | Associate Professor | 912-478-7284 | ENGR 1125 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Civil Engineering & Construction | Dr. Jeong is an Associate Professor in the Department of Civil Engineering and Construction. As a program coordinator for the Construction Engineering program, he teaches courses for both the Civil Engineering and Construction Management programs. Prior to joining Georgia Southern, he spent two years as a project manager and pavement specialist with an engineering consulting firm: Wood plc. (formerly AMEC Forster Wheeler) | My teaching philosophy centers on bridging theory and practice in civil engineering and construction management. With multiple years of industry experience, I bring real-world examples into the classroom and integrate hands-on learning with traditional instruction. I emphasize the balance between theoretical understanding and practical application, addressing industry expectations for graduates who are skilled in new technologies and independent problem-solving. My goal is to continually adapt my teaching to advancements in the field, ensuring students leave equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in the evolving infrastructure industry. |
| M.S., Virginia Tech, 2005 | B.S., SungKyunKwan University, S. Korea, 1998 | Research Interests
| Construction Quality Assurance | Construction Safety | Engineering Education | Asphalt Laboratory | |||||
| tmurphy@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1L_qvhefnKnjVG7ncml9NpTEG8X2Ob_pe | Thomas | Murphy | Associate Professor | 912-344-2709 | University Hall 251 | Armstrong Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering | Dr. Thomas Murphy received his Ph.D. degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the University of Florida. He is currently an Associate Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Georgia Southern University-Armstrong Campus. His research interests are in digital systems, embedded systems, control systems, signal processing, engineering education, and open educational resources. He is a member of The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) and the IEEE Education Society. He currently teaches courses in Computing for Engineers, Logic Circuit Design, Digital Design Lab, Introduction to Signal Processing, Circuit Analysis, and Linear Systems courses | My teaching has focused on undergraduate education and I enjoy teaching and working with undergraduate students. Classes involve active and coopoerative learning activities when possible. Modern software tools are incorporated into project and lab activities. |
| Research Interests
| Signal processing | Open educational resources | |||||||||
| doyunlee@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1YGXZXMuqO4VdwXqZy-S9YC63lnLZWf_G | Doyun | Lee | Assistant Professor | 912-478-6028 | 1101H Engineering Building | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Civil Engineering & Construction | Dr. Lee's research focuses on advancing robotics equipped with visual sensors to navigate construction environments, understand surrounding semantics, and perform complex construction tasks. His recent work includes developing real-time automated mobile robotic systems to improve project outcomes, address safety concerns, and mitigate labor shortages.At Georgia Southern, Dr. Lee will expand his research on computer vision-based robotics in construction, with a focus on Autonomous Robotic Infrastructure Maintenance (ARIM). His lab aims to create a comprehensive framework for ARIM, with potential applications including automated welding, crack detection and repair, and data-driven pipe inspection systems. | From his teaching experiences, Dr. Lee has gleaned valuable insights into the three pivotal elements that significantly impact effective instruction. First and foremost, motivating students emerges as a top priority. He can create a conducive learning environment by igniting their excitement about their potential achievements. Secondly, he firmly believes in the power of students learning-by-doing. Thus, he devoted himself to crafting engaging hands-on course materials that facilitate a deeper understanding of the subject matter. Lastly, he is committed to providing unwavering support to my students. His willingness to assist them, both academically and personally, ensures their continuous growth and development. |
| M.S. in Electrical Engineering at North Carolina State University | M.S. in Architectural Engineering at Kyung Hee University | B.A. in Architectural Engineering at Kyung Hee University | Research Interests
| Construction Robotics | Computer Vision | Automated Welding | Visual Inspection | Automation, Robotics and Computer Integrated Manufacturing Laboratory, Construction Automation & Robotics | |||
| mxu@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1Lu_IV8iBhWjBoHYwm9cm3OFS-rszjNrI | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=BCZ3Li4AAAAJ&hl=en&authuser=1 | Mingzhi | Xu | Associate Professor | 912-478-8449 | ERB 3059 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Mechanical Engineering | Mingzhi Xu received his Ph.D. in Metallurgical Engineering at Missouri University of Science and Technology in 2015. His research on ferrous metal casting has won multiple national awards. He is the Foundry Educational Foundation (FEF) Key Professor and the Association for Iron & Steel Technology (AIST) Steel Professor at Georgia Southern. He teaches materials science, materials process, and metal casting/steel making related courses on Statesboro campus. | Incorporating real-world examples through videos, plant tours, and labs into the courses. Encouraging critical thinking and problem solving skills through challenging group projects. |
| B.S., Xi'an Jiaotong University, 2010 | Research Interests
| metal casting | steel making | material characterization | manufacturing | Carruth Foundry Lab | ||||
| nmoazzam@georgiasouhern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=13stu9cbCiQk-A91LxXHyJh8O4qO2chO7 | Nick | Moazzam | Senior Lecturer of Electrical and Computer Engineering | 912-478-1311 | IT Building, Statesboro, Room 1301 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering | Nick H. Moazzam is an alum of University of New South Wales, Australia and is a Senior Lecturer of Electrical Engineering in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. Dr. Moazzam teaches undergraduate courses on Statesboro campus. | Throughout my teaching career, I’ve worked with diverse students across various disciplines and education levels. My approach emphasizes adaptability, focusing on active participation and problem-solving rather than rote learning. I tailor my methods to different learning styles, teaching subjects from multiple perspectives and encouraging collaboration or independent work as needed. |
| Research Interests
| Electrical Engineering Lab | ||||||||||
| hahmed@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1tdqU-0aZFQPVYVW1_r4pvmlG30vkO6vF | https://scholar.google.com/citations?hl=en&user=HQVX_yMAAAAJ&view_op=list_works&sortby=pubdate | Hossain | Ahmed | Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering | 912-478-8537 | I.T. Building, Statesboro Campus, Statesboro, GA 30460 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Mechanical Engineering | Dr. Ahmed has approximately 18 years of industrial and academic experience, with over 10 years dedicated to computational and experimental nondestructive evaluation, structural health monitoring, mechatronics, and automation. His research group at the MetaMaterials and Mechanical Structure Research Laboratory (M3SR) focuses on acoustic metamaterials, additive manufacturing, AI-based process automation, composite structures, and structural health of additively manufactured parts and electrochemical devices. | Dr. Ahmed is committed to creating a classroom environment where every student feels supported and has the opportunity to succeed. He focuses on helping students think critically and apply their knowledge to solve real-world engineering challenges. His teaching includes courses in structural mechanics, such as Statics, Dynamics, Mechanism Design, and Machine Design, as well as solid modeling, with an emphasis on CAD. |
| M.S. in Aerospace Engineering, University of South Carolina, 2016 | M.B.A. in Management, University of Dhaka, 2014 | B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, 2004 | Research Interests
| Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) | SHM of Additive Manufacturing | SHM of Lithium Ion Batteries | Carbon Fiber Composite Materials | Metamaterials and Mechanical Structure Research Lab | ||
| mehedihassan@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1vJCghAAIwDzG4MbKI8PlnEUD6y8a1Rgi | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=GT4p3rsAAAAJ&hl=en | Mehedi | Hassan | Dr. | 912-478-5993 | IT Building: Room # 2108 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Information Technology | Mehedi is a Visiting Instructor of Information Technology at Georgia Southern University. He earned his Ph.D. in Computer Science in 2024 and his M.Sc. in 2021, both from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. He obtained his B.Sc. in Computer Science and Engineering in 2016 at the Islamic University of Technology, Bangladesh. His research interests lie in network security, complex systems, and machine learning. | My teaching philosophy centers on fostering a collaborative and engaging learning environment that empowers students to think critically and solve complex problems. I emphasize active learning, where students apply theoretical concepts through hands-on activities, coding exercises, and real-world examples.I believe in personalized instruction, recognizing that each student has unique strengths and learning styles. By incorporating diverse teaching methods—lectures, group discussions, and project-based learning—I aim to make complex topics accessible and engaging. My goal is to inspire curiosity, encourage lifelong learning, and equip students with the skills they need to succeed in their academic and professional careers. |
| M.Sc. in Computer Science, University of Louisiana at Lafayette, 2021 | B.Sc. in Computer Science and Engineering, Islamic University of Technology, 2016 | Research Interests
| Complex Systems | Machine Learning | ||||||
| jqing@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1is_rPcOXmE87ZG0FV81g7TgEq54Y9m6L | Jingjing | Qing | Associate Professor (AIST Foundation Steel Professor) | 912-478-6013 | ERB 2022 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Manufacturing Engineering | Dr. Qing graduated with a PhD degree in Materials Science & Engineering from Missouri S&T in 2016. She is an AIST Foundation Steel Professor. Before joining Georgia Southern, she was a Research Assistant Professor and a Senior Research Specialist on Electron Microscopes at Missouri S&T. She has over 14 years experience on ferrous metallurgy research, focused on characterizations using microscopies (SEM, TEM and optical microscopy). Her research on cast irons won 2019 American Foundry Society Howard F. Taylor Award. She is the first author of three AFS best paper awards . She has over 35 publications on ferrous metals. Her research on ferrous metals are funded by NSF, AIST, AFS and DIS. | Dr. Qing teaches class on materials science and steel heat treatment, as well as sustainability and green manufacturing. She encourages students to interact with her in the classroom. She focused on students' learning progression and gives credit for participation and demonstration of efforts. |
| BS Materials Science & Engineering from Xi'an Jiaotong University in China, 2006-2010 | Research Interests
| Microstructure impacts on properties | Solidification of metals | Materials Characterization | Electron microscopy and optical microscopy | Materials Research Laboratory | |||||
| rhamidi@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1_IiTx1SqL2RrGiEJZIXspkrTDRXzp8V- | Reza | Hamidi | Assisstant Professor | 912-478-2574 | IT Building, 1327 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering | Dr. Hamidi is an Assistant Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering, a Senior Member of IEEE, and the Founding Director of the Electric Power System Protection and Condition Monitoring Laboratory. With over a decade of industry experience, he earned his Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering with a focus on power system diagnostics from the University of Nevada-Reno. Dr. Hamidi's research emphasizes practical solutions for modern power grids, ensuring resilience and sustainability in the face of evolving energy challenges. | As an educator, my teaching philosophy centers on fostering critical thinking, innovation, and collaboration among my students. I strive to create an inclusive learning environment where students feel empowered to explore complex concepts, challenge assumptions, and develop practical solutions to real-world problems. My approach emphasizes active learning through problem-solving, interdisciplinary connections, and hands-on applications, particularly in power systems. |
| Research Interests
| Digital Twins | Condition Monitoring and NDT | Power System Protection | Component and System Modeling | Electrical Power System Protection and Condition Monitoring (EPSP&CM) | ||||||
| mezazi@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1lzb_apBfxwCob93RHZWOErfgmGkBS23Z | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=a1yCB6sAAAAJ&hl=en | Amin | Ezazi | Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering | 912-478-0518 | Engineering & Research Building (ERB) - Room 3061 | Armstrong Campus, Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Mechanical Engineering | Dr. Amin Ezazi is an Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Allen E. Paulson College of Engineering and Computing at Georgia Southern University. Prior to his current role, Dr. Ezazi served as a postdoctoral researcher and materials scientist at the Institute for Bioengineering Research (IBER) at the University of Kansas. With over 10 years of R&D experience, he has a strong background in materials development, manufacturing processes, analytical and characterization techniques, as well as expertise in various modeling and analysis software, optimization, and troubleshooting. | I believe an inspiring instructor should encourage students to see the broader context of a subject. Teaching course materials clearly and enthusiastically is essential but not enough; it is crucial to show how principles apply in real life. My teaching experience has taught me to embrace diversity in the classroom and use tools, such as demos, case studies, and guest lectures. I enhance students' understanding by linking concepts to research and practical applications. I aim to integrate teaching with research by offering hands-on opportunities for students in my group. |
| Ph.D., University of Kansas, 2021 | M Eng., University of Malaya, 2015 | Research Interests
| Advanced materials | Surface science and coating technologies | Advanced manufacturing | Liquids separation and water remediation | Manufacturing (Solid Modeling, 3D Scanning, 3D Printing, CNC Machining), Materials Research Laboratory, Engineering & Research Facility, Mechanical Engineering Lab, Laboratory for Advanced Materials and Surfaces (LAMS) | |||
| waboelenin@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1QHFaRpHtXhUq_7IYT2ePo6xXxtAG2-zN | Walaa | Abo Elenin | Lecturer in Information Technology, Department of Information Technology | 912-478-2281 | IT Building: 2126 — Statesboro | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Information Technology | I am a Lecturer in Information Technology at the Department of Information Technology. I hold a Master of Science in Information Technology from Georgia Southern University (2023) and a Graduate Certificate in IT Foundations from Kennesaw State University (2021). I teach Web Development, Cyber Security, and Systems Acquisition Design. My research focuses on data-driven models for campus safety and heart disease prediction. I am dedicated to fostering engaging learning environments and inspiring student growth. Outside of work, I enjoy traveling, reading, and learning new languages. | My teaching philosophy centers on fostering an engaging, hands-on learning environment where students can actively apply IT concepts. I believe in the power of real-world applications to make complex topics more accessible. I encourage students to engage deeply with the material, promoting critical thinking and problem-solving. My goal is to cultivate a growth mindset, empowering students to build the skills and confidence necessary to succeed in the ever-evolving field of Information Technology. I strive to be a guide, inspiring students to reach their full potential. |
| Graduate Certificate in IT Foundations Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA, USA Completed: 2021 Area of Study: IT Foundations | Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (Summa Cum Laude) Alderson Broaddus University, Philippi, WV, USA Graduated: 2019 Major: Business Administration | Minor in Healthcare Administration Alderson Broaddus University, Philippi, WV, USA Graduated: 2019 | Research Interests
| Cybersecurity and Privacy | IT Project Management | Data Science | Center for Applied Cyber Education | ||||
| yzhang@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1IUyOctP3Ee6HKGdQJnf4IGnVvoEZ9Dy5 | Yue | Zhang | Associate Professor | 912-478-1112 | ERB 2065 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Manufacturing Engineering | Dr. Yue Zhang is an Associate Professor in the Department of Manufacturing Engineering. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Polymer Materials and Engineering from Beijing University of Chemical Technology and completed his M.S. and Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering at Texas Tech University. His research spans nanomaterials, energy conversion and storage, additive manufacturing of soft materials, and advanced manufacturing education. Dr. Zhang actively explores innovative methods to enhance the development and application of advanced materials, integrating these findings into his academic and research endeavors. | Dr. Yue Zhang is committed to creating a dynamic and inclusive learning environment where students are encouraged to bridge theory with practice. He emphasizes hands-on experience and interdisciplinary collaboration to prepare students for the challenges of modern manufacturing. By blending cutting-edge research in energy systems, additive manufacturing, and nanotechnology with pedagogical innovation, Dr. Zhang inspires curiosity, critical thinking, and lifelong learning among his students. |
| Research Interests
| Energy Conversion and Storage | Polymer Composites | Additive Manufacturing of Soft Materials | Advanced Manufacturing Education | |||||||
| scesmeci@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1D7v25FoBppttA4KEEeXgUCLorIDjEPT0 | https://scholar.google.com/citations?hl=en&user=b0DZY2UAAAAJ&view_op=list_works&sortby=pubdate | Sevki | Cesmeci | Associate Professor | 912-478-6076 | ERB 3055 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Mechanical Engineering | Dr. Cesmeci holds a Ph.D. degree from University of Nevada, Reno. He teaches classes in energy science and engineering design fields. Dr. Cesmeci's research focuses on innovative product development in energy, health care, and environmental fields. | My teaching philosophy is built upon five pillars: (i) Preparation: I believe in thorough planning to create clear, structured courses. (ii) Student Engagement: I prioritize active learning, encouraging students to participate and ask questions. (iii) Scaffolding: I provide support, gradually increasing complexity to ensure students can build on their knowledge. (iv) Real-Life Applications: I connect concepts to real-world situations, helping students see the relevance of what they’re learning. (v) Self-Improvement: I foster a growth mindset, encouraging both students and myself to continuously improve. |
| Research Interests
| Biomedical | Environment | Thermo Fluidic Systems Laboratory | |||||||
| vgurau@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1IV4DaAOh1BTw5Gk6KcKL1dppEV319djc | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/vladimir-gurau-2/projects/ | Vladimir | Gurau | Associate Professor | 912-478-5205 | Engineering Research Building, Office 2020 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Manufacturing Engineering | Vladimir Gurau is an Associate Professor in the Allen E. Paulson College of Engineering and Computing teaching undergraduate and graduate courses in Advanced Manufacturing, Robotics, Machine Vision and Computer Numerical Control. He has more than 35 years of engineering experience in academia, industry and consulting and is licensed professional engineer (FL 58043). | Aside from building a solid theoretical background to students, a central goal in my teachingactivity is to train students to acquire practical, hands-on skills that enable them to successfully solve technical and societal problems as soon as they join the workforce. I believe that of foremost importance in achieving this goal is to engage students in complex and meaningful engineering projects and research that promotes confidence in their skills and facilitates future professional accomplishments. |
| M.S. in Mechanical / Aerospace Engineering , Polytechnic Institute of Bucharest, Romania (1987) | Research Interests
| Machine Vision | Autonomous Vehicles | Fuel Cells | Green and Alternative Energy | Automation, Robotics and Computer Integrated Manufacturing Laboratory, Manufacturing (Solid Modeling, 3D Scanning, 3D Printing, CNC Machining), Robotics Process Development Laboratory (RPDL) | ||||
| ckadlec@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1cZKzyjgVn8t74IOPoqodNsQYz5RfMvrs | Christopher | Kadlec | Director, Center for Applied Cyber Education | 912-478-7357 | IT1130 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Information Technology | Christopher Kadlec received the Ph.D. degree in information systems from UGA and has been at Georgia Southern since 2007. He worked in IT support prior to his graduate work with the University of Georgia and the University of Mississippi. He has also worked in IT support for more than 20 years and has taught in the field for more than 15 years. He is an advocate for students and the field of information technology. To help both of these, he is working on articulation agreements between universities and community colleges, ensuring that students can get the latest skills and the best jobs while satisfying the needs of the business community. | Teaching is about helping students to learn. To learn, students must be free to make mistakes and find success. To help students learn, as a teacher, we have to present our subjects in a manner that engages the students and provides opportunities to try and fail. |
| B.B.A from the University of Mississippi | Research Interests
| Networking | Cloud Computing | Disaster Recovery | Center for Applied Cyber Education | ||||||
| hsezer@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1Jej4QW3RDOql9ANX9eEswevMdg6pabCn | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=eu_kVXMAAAAJ&hl=en&oi=ao | Hayri | Sezer | Assistant Professor | 912-478-8521 | IT 3112 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Mechanical Engineering | Dr. Sezer is an assistant professor of thermal and fluid sciences at Georgia Southern University, Department of Mechanical Engineering. He earned his B.Sc. in physics engineering (2005) and M.Sc. in defense technologies (2009) from Istanbul Technical University and his Ph.D. in mechanical and aerospace engineering from West Virginia University (2014). His research focuses on electrochemical energy storage and conversion (fuel cells, batteries), machine learning, computational fluid dynamics, combustion, heat and mass transfer, biomass gasification, and fire dynamics. He develops models for thermal runaway in Li-Ion batteries, SOFCs, wood pyrolysis, and drag in complex geometries, and studies 3D laser metal sintering heat transfer. | As an educator, I believe in equipping students with practical tools and knowledge that transcend the classroom. In my courses—Thermodynamics, Energy Science Lab, and Introduction to Advanced Computing—I integrate programming, focusing on Julia language, to bridge theoretical concepts with real-world applications. By introducing packages like CycleSolver.jl, WaterLily.jl, and VoronoiFVM.jl, I demonstrate how computational methods enhance our understanding of the physical phenomenon. This approach fosters analytical thinking, adaptability, and a hands-on experience of emerging technologies, empowering students to excel in their future careers and research endeavor |
| Ph.D. Candidate Material Science and Engineering 2009-2011 Istanbul Technical University, Istanbul, Turkey Transferred May 2011, completed all (24 credit hours) coursework and Ph.D. Qualifier exam | M.Sc. Defense Technologies (Material Manufacturing and Design Engineering) 2007-2009 Istanbul Technical University, Istanbul, Turkey Thesis: Mathematical modeling of pile-up dislocation against a cylindrical fiber in metal matrix composites | B.Sc. Physics Engineering 2000-2005 Istanbul Technical University, Istanbul, Turkey | Research Interests
| Machine learning, AI and Scientific Machine Learning (SciML) | Fire Dynamics, Fire Safety, Fire Technology, combustion and chemical kinetics | Computational science | Computational Fluid Dynamics | Fire and Energy Lab (FireGY); https://sites.google.com/view/ampacs/home | ||
| kwang@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1dDvMeEXTA-b1qRROTwUGUfAQCjHFa0uu | Kai | Wang | Associate Professor | 912-478-7392 | IT 2307 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Computer Science | Kai Wang joined faculty in the Department of Computer Science at Georgia Southern University in 2015 after obtaining his PhD. | Teaching & Education is a life-long process. |
| Research Interests
| Computational Complexity | ||||||||||
| mdavari@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1M6y0vvwd6oWJ8dumr-DdcrhucXgFPiX7 | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/masoud-davari-2 | Masoud | Davari | Associate Professor of Power Electronics; Founder and Director of Laboratory for Advanced Power and Energy Systems (LAPES) | 912-478-4422 | ERB Room #3036 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering | Dr. Davari’s technical contributions include devising advanced controls based on machine learning approaches in artificial intelligence synthesized for power electronic converters. He has significantly contributed to advanced technology integration into modern grids and grid edge by controlling power electronic systems—key enabling technologies for power networks. He has addressed challenging control designs for problem-causing dynamics and many cybersecurity-related problems and cyberattacks’ impacts on the performance and stability of the power and energy systems deploying power electronics. The U.S. NSF has supported his career from 2018–2027 as the Principal Investigator on four (4) close-to-$1.2M projects funded by the NSF programs. | Realizing the students’ viewpoint bases Dr. Davar’s approach to effective teaching. He tries to use his own experience as a student of electrical engineering to recognize their struggles and encourage them to become confident and clear in their critical thinking skills. Every time he steps into the classroom, he incorporates a few fundamentals to establish connections with the students and to help them take ownership of their learning. His innovative teaching methods are rooted in experiential learning, so he was awarded the ACUE/ACE badges and certificates. He was one of the primary leads in the IEEE Task Force on Innovative Teaching Methods for Modern Power and Energy Systems and contributed to training the power engineering workforce. |
| 2) Master of Science (M.Sc.), Amirkabir University of Technology (Tehran Polytechnic), Tehran, Iran Sep. 2007 – Jan. 2010 – Department of Electrical Engineering – M.Sc. in Electrical Engineering (with Honor/Distinction, Summa Cum Laude) – Majored in Power Engineering – GPA U.S. Equivalent: 3.91/4.00 – Thesis Title: Design and Implementation of Sigma-Delta-Modulation-Based Inverters for Distributed Generation Applications | 3) Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.), Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran Sep. 2003 – Sep. 2007 – Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering – B.Sc. in Electrical Engineering (with Honor/Distinction, Summa Cum Laude) – Majored in Power Engineering – GPA, last two years: 18.05/20.00 – Thesis Title: Design and Implementation of a Three-Phase Inverter Based on IGBT Intelligent Power Modules for Laboratory Applications | Research Interests
| – Modern Power and Energy Systems—Modeling, Analysis, Automation, Communications, Controls, and Protections—Ranging from Terrestrial Microgrids and Shipboard Microgrids to Aircraft Power Systems | – Hybrid AC/DC Power Networks: Analysis, Modeling, Digital Real-Time Simulations, Operation, Advanced Protection Schemes, Controls, and Cybersecurity | – Testing of Power and Energy Systems Based on Power/Controller Hardware-In-the-Loop (PHIL/CHIL) Simulations Using Digital Real-Time Simulators | – Cybersecurity and Resilient-by-Design Controls for Power Electronics in Modern Grids and Grid Edge – Renewables Integration into and Their Interaction with Hybrid Multi-Infeed AC/DC Power Systems – Operation, Protection, Control, and Automation of Smart Microgrids considering High Penetration of Power Electronic Devices and Battery Energy Storage Systems – Application and Control of Power Electronic Converters in Electric Drive Control | Laboratory for Advanced Power and Energy Systems (LAPES) | |||
| esafapour@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1qBmKGPAmCjLLDIC8OAzb9A3R4xFCIEMd | Elnaz | Safapour | Assistant Professor | 912-478-6266 | Engineering Building, Room 1101C | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Civil Engineering & Construction | I joined Georgia Southern University as an assistant professor in the Civil Engineering and Construction Department in August 2024. From 2022 to 2024, I was a tenure-track assistant professor in the Civil and Environmental Engineering Department at the University of New Orleans (UNO), specializing in Construction Management. Prior to beginning my faculty role, I served as a postdoctoral associate at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. | My teaching approach focuses on enhancing critical thinking, problem-solving, and interactive communication skills in both undergraduate and graduate students to prepare them for their future careers. In my classes, students engage in discussions and identify solutions collectively, fostering interactive communication and critical thinking skills for their future careers. |
| Master's in Civil and Architectural Engineering | BSc's in Mechanical Engineering | Research Interests
| Education and Workforce Training and Development Support | Industry 4.0 and Construction 4.0 Technologies Adopting in Construction/Reconstruction | Risk Management and Decision Support Systems in Construction/Reconstruction | Life Cycle Cost Analysis | |||||
| hzhang@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1D3Te-_ZQYR7JChMZBbUYtkRpXYEx2l8J | Hong | Zhang | Professor | 912-344-3151 | Science Center 208 | Armstrong Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Computer Science | Hong Zhang is an alum of University of Pittsburgh and is a Professor in the Department of Computer Science. Dr. Zhang teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in computer science. | My teaching philosophy centers on inspiring students' interests and developing their creativity in the formal, rigorous, and abstract areas of computer science. |
| M.A., Univeristy of Pittsburgh | M.S.E.E., University of Pittsburgh | Research Interests
| Algebraic Graph Theory | ||||||||
| mhossain@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1iy-5C_05fseE8zV8Psrp_fCEBK3b0fzH | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=Zxh8GfYAAAAJ&hl=en | Md Shakil | Hossain | Visiting Instructor | 912-478-7198 | IT2303 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Computer Science | Visiting Instructor at Georgia Southern University | Let's enjoy what we want to Learn! |
| Research Interests
| Eye Tracking | Machine Learning | ||||||||
| tcourdin@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1R2Xj76egggW2vZgzLTd831ua7NqVH-Lx | Tiffany | Courdin | Administrative Assistant II | 912-478-5373 | IT 1313 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering | |||||||||||||||
| shaowenxu@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=12wJPIVKEYlIeIVzPk2vyYYP2jf3FSiD8 | Shaowen | Xu | Associate professor | 912-478-5006 | ERB 3065 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Mechanical Engineering | I am Shaowen Xu, an associate professor ad director of Master of Science of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the Georgia Southern University. My research projects cover a broad spectrum of scientific research and engineering applications. My research work has focused on inventing new manufacturing processing for bio-materials , synthesis of bio-inspired multiscale structured materials for engineering applications, multi-disciplinary modeling and simulations, experiment and numerical simulation integrated methods, physics-based modeling of nano-materials, and material behavior characterizations on high strain rate loading conditions. | Acquiring knowledge is just the first step to learning. The final goal of good classroom instruction is to create an environment conducive to learning, in which students not only acquire knowledge but also learn to think and solve problems. To this end, I practice interactive teaching, encourage classroom discussion and independent thinking. I like to relate the mechanics theory to the real-life examples, and encourage my students to use what they learn to daily life applications. In addition, interesting research results always stimulate the students’ interest. Besides textbook knowledge, I always integrate my pertinent research results and progresses into the classroom teaching. |
| Research Interests
| Multi-disciplinary/Multi-physics/Multi-scale modeling and simulations of engineering structures, systems and manufacturing processes | Impact and blast resistant material and structure development, and material testing on high strain rate loading condition | Manufacture processing development for wood molding and forming | Experiment and numerical simulation integrated method | Manufacturing (Solid Modeling, 3D Scanning, 3D Printing, CNC Machining), Materials Research Laboratory, Nanocomposite Material Science Laboratory, Mechanical Engineering Lab | ||||||
| dcox@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=13_1bEi3pkSLgssz1dlFZd1xGWOkSAe48 | Daniel J. | Cox | Professor and Founding Chair | 912-478-8044 | ERB 1004D | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Manufacturing Engineering | In 1981 he joined the IBM Corporation in Boulder Colorado in the position of Manufacturing Engineer. He graduated with his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering with specialization in robotics from UT Austin in 1992 where he also worked at the IBM Austin Texas facility as a Robotics and Automation Engineer until 1998. He joined the University of Texas at Austin in 1998 as a Research Scientist also serving as the Associate Director and Program Manager of the Robotics Research Group. In 2001 Dr. Cox joined the faculty at the University of North Florida where he became tenured as Professor of Mechanical Engineering. Dr. Cox initiated a new program for Georgia Southern as the Founding Chair of Manufacturing Engineering in 2016. | Dr. Cox’s research and teaching interests include robotics and automation, advanced manufacturing, and dynamic systems and control. His interests also include cooperating and collaborative robotics, software aspects of manufacturing, manufacturing execution systems, and engineering education for the modern manufacturing engineer. |
| MS, University of Florida, 1981 | BS, University of Florida, 1979 | Research Interests
| Manufacturing Automation | Cleanroom Operations | Dynamic Systems and Control | Manufacturing (Solid Modeling, 3D Scanning, 3D Printing, CNC Machining), Manufacturing Robotics and Automation | |||||
| andrewallen@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1DvqGDmY634t-PYrcM2cKLh0KDtiR_69c | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=qfPpCmMAAAAJ&hl=en | Andrew | Allen | Associate Professor and Chair | 912-478-5898 | IT Building, Room 2313 | Armstrong Campus, Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Computer Science | Dr. Allen is an Associate Professor and Chair of the Computer Science Department. His research efforts have focused on software development effort reduction, machine learning, and improving Computer Science and Software Engineering pedagogy. His research is multidisciplinary and has led to collaborations with researchers from 15 different academic institutions within and outside of the United States. He has secured grants as a PI/co-PI from the NSF including a grant that developed a Cyber-Learning Environment that has been in operation for over six years and has been used by 47 Instructors and 3,320 students from 36 different institutions, and a NSF grant to bring introductory CS to low socioeconomic status and underserved middle schools. | My teaching philosophy centers on integrating hands-on learning with a strong foundation in theoretical concepts. I believe that understanding core principles in computer science provides the essential framework for creativity and innovation, while practical, real-world application ensures that knowledge is retained and meaningful. By fostering a collaborative and interactive classroom, I encourage students to explore complex challenges, develop problem-solving skills, and engage deeply with the material. My goal is to empower students to think critically, adapt to evolving technologies, and confidently bridge the gap between theory and practice in their professional journeys. |
| Research Interests
| Computer Science Education | Model-Driven Engineering | ||||||||
| GFU@GEORGIASOUTHERN.EDU | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1YpVTtxVjweyU2fWhozQKMEZ-4ntCV1US | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/george-yuzhu-fu-2 | George | Fu | Professor | 912-478-5003 | Room 1126 in the Engineering Building | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Civil Engineering & Construction | Dr. Fu is Professor in the Department of Civil Engineering and Construction at Georgia Southern University. He has been studying, working and researching in Environmental Engineering with an emphasis on Water and Environment for more than 30 years. He has completed/is working over $1.5 million in externally funded research mainly as PI, and has published more than 40 scholarly works. As Director, Dr. Fu has developed and established Water and Environmental Research Lab with a variety of state-of-the-art instruments. He also has over 10 years of professional engineering experience in well-known national/international consulting companies including AECOM, SNC-Lavalin, etc. as Environmental and Project Engineer. | Confucius said, “I hear, and I forget; I see, and I remember; I do, and I understand”. I have adopted this saying as my teaching philosophy because I believe that hands-on problem solving and comprehension are crucial for an engineering education. I would like my students to hear lectures with relevant examples and detailed step-by-step explanations in my class, to see real-world relevance through field trips, and most importantly, to learn by getting their hands “dirty” through performing labs, completing team projects, and regularly having tests. I believe these are effective ways to enhance a student’s learning experience. |
| M.S., Tianjin University, 1989 | B.S., Tianjin University, 1986 | Research Interests
| GreenInfrastructure Using Biochar | Highway Stormwater Management | Removal of Emerging Contaminants | Industrial Wastewater Treatment | Water & Environmental Research Lab (WERL) | |||
| vramasamy@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1Oix-eEbjaTO8vpoOhgqESYccdhkuYFtd | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/vijayalakshmi-ramasamy | VIJAYALAKSHMI | RAMASAMY | ASSISTANT PROFESSOR | 912-478-7413 | IT 2323 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Computer Science | Dr. Vijayalakshmi Ramasamy is an Assistant Professor of Computer Science at Georgia Southern University and an Institute for Health Logistics & Analytics affiliate. With over 27 years of academic and research experience, her work focuses on machine learning, deep learning, and graph data analytics. She applies these methods to interdisciplinary research in cognitive neuroscience, health data analytics, and environmental issues such as microplastic pollution and climate change. Dr. Ramasamy has been involved in multiple international research collaborations and continues to pursue innovative solutions at the intersection of technology, health, and the environment. | My teaching philosophy, shaped by 27 years of experience across diverse student populations on three continents, emphasizes building an inclusive and engaging learning environment. I encourage active participation to foster a vibrant learning community and bridge the gap between academia and industry by connecting course content to real-world applications. I provide well-organized lessons, ample practice, and timely feedback and accommodate diverse needs. My most fundamental goals are being a co-learner and establishing a respectful learning environment for all. I encourage students to share their views and foster mutual understanding while ensuring respect and dignity for the diverse identities we all bring to the classroom. |
| Master of Philosophy in Computer Science | Master of Computer Applications | Diploma in Database Management Systems | Bachelor of Science in Chemistry | Research Interests
| Computational Neuroscience | Pattern Recognition | Educational Data Mining and Learning Analytics | Institute for Health Logistics & Analytics | ||
| wtong@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1QaKBFeBgSqs62HxRk1fGmwUQtKJEAx-y | www.weitiantong.com | Weitian | Tong | Dr. | IT2305 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Computer Science | Dr. Weitian Tong is a tenured associate professor in the Department of Computer Science, Georgia Southern University. Dr. Tong received his B.S. degree in Math and Applied Mathematics from Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China, in 2010, and the Ph.D. degree in Computer Science from University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada, in 2015. Currently, Dr. Tong’s research focuses on efficient algorithm design for optimization problems arising from data science and smart city. | Sharing knowledge with students fulfills my responsibility as a teacher-scholar and helps me to organize my knowledge systematically. Therefore, I find teaching an enjoyable and rewarding part of my academic career. |
| B.S., Math and Applied Mathematics, Zhejiang University, China | Research Interests
| Operations research | Data science | Smart city | |||||||
| jfarara@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1Dhw7kcIijNR5kUBEeZF-wWajWh8hZDdI | Joshua | Farara | Visiting Instructor | 912-478-4308 | It2333 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Computer Science | Joshua Farara is a passionate educator and technologist with a Master of Science in Computer Science from Georgia Southern University. Currently serving as a Visiting Instructor in the Department of Computer Science, he teaches courses in programming languages, object-oriented programming, and software development. With a background in web development and data analytics, Joshua integrates real-world experience into his teaching, emphasizing practical skills and problem-solving. He is committed to fostering student engagement, inspiring a passion for coding, and encouraging a disciplined, solution-oriented mindset. | My teaching philosophy centers on fostering student interest in computer science through engaging, inclusive, and solution-oriented learning. I believe it is a professor's duty to nurture curiosity while emphasizing the discipline required to master the field. I prepare materials in advance to encourage active discussions and guide students toward understanding fundamental concepts. By highlighting coding's practical applications, I inspire students to develop a passion for the subject, cultivating critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for academic and professional success. |
| MASTER OF SCIENCE IN COMPUTER SCIENCE– Georgia Southern University – Statesboro, GA December 2023 | Research Interests
| Data Science | Artificial Intelligence | Computer Vision | Path Planning and Navigation Algorithms | ||||||
| lrowles@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=106keRKV6e3bbkOM3FYtUT_h3RENF0yKh | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=lAkbKp0AAAAJ&hl=en&oi=ao https://www.rowlesresearch.com/ | Stetson | Rowles | Assistant Professor | 912-478-0772 | ENG 1101E | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Civil Engineering & Construction | Stetson Rowles is currently an Assistant Professor in the Department of Civil Engineering and Construction at Georgia Southern University. His research interests are at the interface of technology development and sustainable design, with a focus on advancing clean water and safe sanitation for unserved and historically marginalized communities. He is the co-founder of an educational non-profit organization, Clean Water Science Network, which provides mentoring and research opportunities for students from underserved communities in Latin America. | Stetson Rowles inspires active learning in civil, construction, and environmental engineering by emphasizing real-world applications before theory. His hands-on approach integrates experiential learning through labs, design projects, and undergraduate research, helping students develop confidence in analyzing complex systems. By focusing on the 'why' before the 'what,' he promotes deeper understanding and retention. He continuously refines his teaching methods based on student feedback, incorporating computational tools and sustainability concepts. Through this approach, he aims to develop innovative engineers equipped to address challenges in sustainable infrastructure and community resilience. |
| May 2016 M.S. Civil (Environmental focus) Engineering University of Texas at Austin | 2018 Graduate Portfolio Applied Statistical Modeling University of Texas at Austin | Dec 2013 B.S. Civil Engineering University of South Carolina | Research Interests
| Quantitative Sustainable Design of Engineered Systems, | Community-Based Studies | Resource Recovery and Waste Valorization | Nano-Enabled Ceramic Filters | Institute for Vibrant and Engaged Communities, Institute for Water and Health | ||
| wfischer@gmail.com | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1BySh8hrIx126y46Y8rg1qFRz8-mz0sdt | Wesley | Fischer | Retention and Success Coordinator, School of Nursing | 912-478-5866 | Statesboro: Nursing Building, Room 1004 Armstrong: Ashmore Hall, Room 254 | Armstrong Campus, Statesboro Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | School of Nursing | Wesley is a dedicated healthcare professional with a rich background in emergency services and a passion for nursing. A former U.S. Navy Corpsman, he honed his medical skills in high-pressure environments, providing critical care to those in need. Following his military service, Wesley continued his commitment to public safety as an EMT and firefighter. He pursued his academic interests at Georgia Southern University, earning both a Bachelor's degree in Biology and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. This dual background has equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of the biological sciences, enhancing his medical knowledge and student interactions as the Student Success Coordinator for the Water College of Nursing. | My teaching philosophy is rooted in empathy, experiential learning, and a commitment to patient-centered care. By drawing from my unique background, I strive to inspire and equip future nurses with the skills, knowledge, and compassion needed to make a positive impact in the lives of their patients. |
| Bachelor's of Science in Biology, Georgia Southern University | Research Interests
| Nursing Education | |||||||||
| htung@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=13VBhROV6Abi79dYRWOndRAxwkMUz4G3s | https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/colleges/public-health/faculty-staff | Ho Jui | Tung | Associate Professor | 912-478-1342 | Room 2011, Hendricks Hall | Statesboro Campus | Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health | Department of Health Policy & Community Health | Ho Jui Tung, Ph.D., is an associate professor in the Department of Health Policy and Community Health, Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health, Georgia Southern University. Dr. Tung has focused his research on social gerontology and health policy since his doctoral dissertation. He has been conducting research using survey and claims data to identify disparities in preventive care use and end-of-life care planning across older populations. He also has extensive experiences in examining the mechanisms of health disparities and links between social determinants of health and health inequalities. | In my teaching career in public health, I try to focus on: 1) conceptual thinking skills that are relevant to situations they might encounter in the future; 2) improve understanding of foundational knowledge and skill in public health; 3) illustrate the interdisciplinary nature of public health; 4) link current public health events to expand their interests in public health and socio-behavioral implications to the health of the populations. Different approaches are adopted for teaching graduate and undergraduate students. |
| Research Interests
| health policy | End of life care policy | ||||||||
| jianzhang@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1wJM9T84Q62HDyGi9DZW6NZBkqsoGhyFy | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/jian-zhang-2 | Jian | Zhang | Professor | 912-478-2290 | 2032, Hendricks Hall | Statesboro Campus | Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health | Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology & Environmental Health Sciences | Jian Zhang earned his medical degree from Shanxi Medical University and a Doctorate in Public Health from the University of South Carolina. He has extensive experience as a medical officer at the Chinese Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and served as a national program officer at the World Health Organization (WHO). In the United States, he worked as an epidemiologist at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). His research focuses on the epidemiology of chronic diseases and has been widely featured in major media outlets, including Time, ABC News, Fox News, CBS News, CNN, NBC News, and The Washington Post. His work has also been highlighted in popular magazines such as New Scientist and Allure. | Drawing from extensive public health practice in both developing and developed countries, Dr. Zhang has crafted courses that seamlessly bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application. |
| DrPH | Research Interests
| Public Health Surveillance Method | ||||||||
| bapenteng@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1ZY_YwBrIcDH_DKYOPqkBd0OMXp1P4v4L | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/bettye-apenteng-2 | Bettye | Apenteng | Professor | 912-478-2416 | Hendricks Hall Room 2010 | Statesboro Campus | Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health | Department of Health Policy & Community Health | Dr. Apenteng is trained in the application of qualitative and quantitative research methodologies in public health and health services research and practice. Her research and practice interests are in the relationships among health organizational structure, behavior and performance and how these relationships collectively shape health systems capacity and optimal functioning; health services access utilization and cost; and health equity and population outcomes. She has a strong passion for global and rural health services and systems research and has published extensively in this area. | Dr. Apenteng's teaching approach is strongly influenced by her belief thatlearning is most effective when students can connect, evolve, and apply. Learners must be able to connect with the material, instructors, and peers. This can be facilitated by tailoring instruction to increase the saliency of the subject matter to learners, displaying humanity and compassion, and encouraging respectful discourse. Knowledge is not static, and the learning process must reflect this dynamism and support learners as they evolve. Learning is also most effective when students can apply concepts to similar and non-similar contexts in a manner that spurs positive disruption of existing paradigms and approaches. |
| Research Interests
| Health Disparities | Global Health | Health Services and Systems | Social Determinants of Health | Center for Public Health Practice and Research | |||||
| amohamed@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1yrcvSMpcp-e9tcwfdY7as-ZsILN6M850 | Atef | Mohamed (Shalan) | Assistant Professor | 912-478-7756 | IT 2110 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Information Technology | Dr. Atef Mohamed (Shalan) is an Assistant Professor of Information Technology at Georgia Southern University. He earned his PhD in Computer Science from Queen’s University, Canada, and an MSc in Computer Science from Lakehead University, Canada. With over a decade of higher education and industry experience, Dr. Shalan focuses on system reliability, software architecture, fault tolerance, and failure prediction. He has published research and delivered talks globally. Dr. Shalan teaches programming, Operating systems, networking, Databases, cybersecurity, and data analytics. | My teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that impactful teaching inspires students to deeply engage with their curriculum. Drawing from my academic and professional experience, I aim to ignite a passion for learning by bridging theoretical knowledge with practical applications. My industrial background allows me to emphasize the relevance of each concept, fostering an appreciation for its practical importance. By guiding students to explore the genealogy of problems and their broader implications, I help them envision interconnected frameworks and craft comprehensive solutions. This approach sustains interest in challenging courses while equipping students with critical and strategic thinking skills for their future careers. |
| MSc In Computer Science, Lakehead University, Thunder Bay Ontario Canada, 2006 | Research Interests
| System Reliability | Ai & Machine Learning | Cybersecurity | |||||||
| ahansen@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1vSInitS3kLUmygCD5W-sO_JIfaP-0P4U | Andrew | Hansen | Professor | 912-478-0261 | Hendricks Hall | Statesboro Campus | Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health | Department of Health Policy & Community Health | Dr. Hansen received his doctoral training in Community Health Behavior and Education and has a Masters in Exercise Science and an Undergraduate degree in Health and Physical Education. His teaching areas include Global Health, Health Disparities, Program Planning and Evaluation, and Social Marketing. Research interest is in the area of health and wellness for individuals, schools, communities, and populations related to behavior, environmental, and structural influences. | Accept that I don’t know what I don't know and allow myself to be a student, to listen and process what research, the students, and others say, working to ensure my current knowledge doesn’t bias and impede attaining new knowledge. I work to be respectful and responsive to various learning preferences, mindsets, and culture. I foster this openness in students and challenge them to look beyond one perspective allowing themselves to receive and process the ideas and thoughts of others. I engage my students in ways that allow them to challenge themselves and their peers, advancing beyond what we know in the classroom, beyond status quo, and imagining what else is possible. |
| Research Interests
| Social Marketing | Health Disparities and inequality | Environment-Sustainability | ||||||||
| haozhang@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1v59ctBtW7EiNLIub6DiPxX7A5eAnhiDY | Hao | Zhang | Assistant Professor | 912-478-2189 | IT Building #2128 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Information Technology | Hao Zhang is an Assistant Professor of Information Technology at Georgia Southern University. He earned his Master of Science in Information Technology, with a focus on text analytics and data science. | As an educator, my primary goal is to create an engaging, and supportive learning environment where students feel empowered to explore, question, and deepen their understanding of Information Technology. I believe that effective teaching is not just about transmitting knowledge, but about inspiring students to think critically, collaborate, and develop the skills necessary to navigate the evolving technological landscape. |
| Research Interests
| Data Science | ||||||||||
| mbester@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=15HHYqstO6fqh6uO-Xg0TzAX3rsjapQdS | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/mary-e-bester-dr-2 | Mary Estelle | Bester | Associate Professor School of Nursing | 912-478-8602 | Nursing Chemistry Building, Room 4014 | Statesboro Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | School of Nursing | My journey in nursing began at Stellenbosch University in South Africa, first as nursing student and then as senior lecturer for 20 years. This foundational experience ignited a passion for nursing that would shape my entire career. I was a senior lecturer in nursing at this university for 20 years. In pursuit of new challenges and opportunities, I spent the next decade in Saudi Arabia as a program director in nursing practice and quality, overseeing nursing practices and ensuring the highest standards of quality care. Since 2017, I have been a part of GSU, teaching undergraduate and postgraduate students. In my teaching role, I continue my passion for SoTL, while also contributing to the development of future nursing leaders. | My teaching philosophy centers on fostering a student-centered environment where every learner's unique needs and strengths are recognized and nurtured. I am passionate about creating engaging, inclusive, and dynamic learning experiences that inspire curiosity and a love for learning. By encouraging active participation, critical thinking, and collaboration, I aim to empower students to take ownership of their education and develop lifelong learning skills. My goal is to cultivate a supportive and stimulating atmosphere where every student feels valued and motivated to reach their full potential. |
| MSN (Masters in Science of Nursing) | Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy) | Honors in Nursing Education | Advanced Diploma in Nursing Leadership | Research Interests
| Evidence-Based Teaching | Technology in Teaching | ||||
| kkardel@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1ufhVE48DOy46Ldg0pMYipE7lloo3OnIU | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=UaSo3WMAAAAJ&hl=en | Kamran | Kardel | Associate Professor | 912-478-8566 | ERB 2057 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Manufacturing Engineering | Dr. Kamran Kardel has a Ph.D. in Industrial and Systems Engineering from Auburn University. Before joining Georgia Southern in 2016, he was a research assistant in the Mike Hubbard Center for Advanced Science, Innovation and Commerce (CASIC) at Auburn University. Dr. Kardel’s research interests include understanding and experimenting novel applications for additive manufacturing. This encompasses broad systems in several fields, from manufacturing to biosystems, bioprinting, and bio-scaffolding. Specifically, additive manufacturing processes and its applications in Biosystems and scaffolding, as well as surface metrology and engineering. | As a professor of manufacturing engineering, my teaching philosophy emphasizes bridging theory and practice through hands-on learning and real-world applications. I aim to inspire critical thinking, innovation, and problem-solving by integrating industry-relevant projects, simulations, and collaborative teamwork into the classroom. By fostering an inclusive environment, I encourage diverse perspectives and active engagement, ensuring all students feel empowered to contribute and excel. My goal is to equip students with technical expertise, ethical responsibility, and leadership skills, preparing them to address the evolving challenges of manufacturing and industrial systems |
| M.Eng. in Industrial and Systems Engineering, Auburn University, 2013 | M.S. in Socio-economic Systems Engineering, Mazandaran University of Science & Technology, 2008 | B.S. in Industrial Engineering, Iran University of Science & Technology, 2003 | Research Interests
| Bio-engineering | Sustainable Manufacturing | Surface Engineering | Mechanical Characterization | 3D Bio Manufacturing Laboratory | ||
| rcollins@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1QLVB4icGg-wgrAQxTezA15uhI9Jo4X8p | Rhyne | Collins | Lecturer | 912-478-3009 | 3027 | Statesboro Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | School of Nursing | I celebrated 22 years of bedside care this past June. I have worked in many different aspects of nursing and have greatly enjoyed my career thus far. Becoming an educator has always been at the top of my career goals and I am delighted to have found a home at beautiful Georgia Southern University- Waters College of Health Professions, School of Nursing. | As a nursing educator, my teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that nursing is a holistic and dynamic profession that merges science, empathy, and ethics to deliver patient-centered care. I view education as a lifelong journey, where the role of the educator extends beyond disseminating knowledge to mentoring, inspiring, and fostering a passion for learning and professional growth among students. |
| Masters of Science in Nursing Education, Chamberlin University, 2021 | BSN-RN, Albany State University, 2017 | ADN-RN, Darton College, 2010 | Practical Nursing Diploma, Southeastern Technical College, 2005 | Research Interests
| Evaluation in Nursing Education | ||||||
| cvrogers@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1xr99o8EvuwHwwq2-scUeH19uH22dxT5T | Cheyenne | Rogers | Administrative Assistant II | 912-478-5242 | Nursing/Chemistry Building Room 2002G | Statesboro Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | School of Nursing | |||||||||||||||
| chelseadoyle@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1ksLO1sVzzHg0SX4RlJ7GznqA5rgzNtHQ | Chelsea | Doyle | Administrative Assistant II | 912-344-2973 | Ashmore Hall Rm 266 | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | School of Nursing | |||||||||||||||
| nmarshall@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1Z43OAqS3_eU0NN5sRyVAmQ38pVccP3Vu | Nandi | Marshall | Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and Associate Professor | 912-478-3307 | Hendricks Hall | Statesboro Campus | Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health | Department of Health Policy & Community Health | Dr. Nandi A. Marshall is a community engaged scholar committed to maternal and child health equity and preparing the next generation of the public health workforce. She is an Associate Professor in the Department of Health Policy and Community Health and the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs in the Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health at Georgia Southern University. Dr. Marshall holds a BA from Spelman College, an MPH from East Stroudsburg University, and a DrPH from Georgia Southern University. Dr. Marshall is also a certified health education specialist, a certified lactation counselor, and a certified diversity executive. | Throughout my educational, professional and personal experiences I have focused on community engagement, the social determinants of health, service and building my leadership skills. As such, these are the same values I bring to the classroom. As an educator, my goals are to: **prepare students for the public health workforce by building their knowledge base, leadership skills and confidence;**engage students through participatory work in their community and learning environment; and **teach the importance of the social determinants of health in achieving health equity. |
| MPH | CHES | CLC | CDE | Research Interests
| Community Engagement | Social Determinants of Health | Breastfeeding Continuity of Care | ||||
| sherren@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1joopJjspS2rV52nCpdyCoiwyfe7FvxQp | Stephanie | Herren | Student Accessibility Coordinator | 912-344-2572 | Memorial College Center 205 | Armstrong Campus | Student Accessibility Resource Center | Student Accessibility Resource Center | Stephanie (she/her/hers) has a Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies degree in Liberal Arts and Social Sciences and a Master of Arts in Professional Communication and Leadership from Georgia Southern University. As a double eagle, she attended both the Statesboro and Armstrong campuses. With over 10 years in higher education, she has worked at both private and public universities in various areas such as sponsored programs, financial services, and academic advising. Stephanie provides information about disability related services and documentation requirements to current and prospective students. She also oversees test proctoring on the Armstrong campus. | As a self-proclaimed lifelong learner, I want to nurture and encourage curious minds to never stop learning. |
| Research Interests
| Public administration for non-profits | ||||||||||
| agutierrez@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=16B6kYJ2LoFDWpxhgCOraOMOHbRpbM4TY | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=1wZbNEoAAAAJ&hl=en&oi=ao | Antonio | Gutierrez de Blume | Professor | 912-478-7831 | COE 3135 | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Curriculum, Foundations & Reading | Antonio P. Gutierrez de Blume, Ph.D., is currently a Professor of Research at Georgia Southern University, where he teaches quantitative research methods and statistics. His research expertise is in examining metacognition under the theory of self-regulated learning. More specifically, he is interested in how learners monitor their comprehension during learning episodes. His program of research includes examining the effects of dispositional characteristics (e.g., various aspects of motivation) and learning strategy training on learners’ monitoring (accuracy and bias), confidence in performance judgments, and performance as well as investigating the latent dimensions of calibration to improve its measurement. | As a teacher, I endeavor to create a classroom climate that promotes higher-order thinking skills in my students, whether in a face-to-face/traditional or in an online/distance format. As such, my teaching approach is predicated on my research interests, which involve the advancement and promotion of higher-order thinking skills (e.g., metacognition, metamemory, metacomprehension, critical thinking, and creative thinking and creativity), all of which are rooted in the theories of self-regulated learning and metacognition. Finally, I have experience in fair, just, and equitable grading practices as well as other forms of student assessment of performance (e.g., rubric-based assessment). |
| M.Sc., University of Nevada, Las Vegas, 2008 | B.A., University of Nevada, Las Vegas, 2004 | Research Interests
| Self-Regulated Learning | Motivation | Center for STEM Education (i2STEMed), National Youth Advocacy and Resilience Research Center | |||||
| bsilwal@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1-poJidr7acbQhTp47QbOpHTyo7qJ-Uq- | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=r74qSeAAAAAJ&hl=en | Bishal | Silwal | Associate Professor | 912-478-0542 | Engineering and Research Bldg. Room 3063 | Statesboro Campus | Allen E Paulson College of Engineering & Computing | Department of Mechanical Engineering | Dr. Bishal Silwal is an Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering, specializing in advanced manufacturing techniques, particularly wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) and the development of metallic alloys. With expertise in material characterization, mechanical testing, and computational simulation, Dr. Silwal leads a dynamic research group dedicated to advancing sustainable and high-performance manufacturing processes. | One of my teaching philosophy emphasizes bridging academic concepts with real-world applications, ensuring students see the tangible impact of their learning. One of the most effective ways I implement this is by organizing industry visits, which provide students with firsthand exposure to professional practices, advanced technologies, and real-world problem-solving scenarios. These visits allow students to connect theoretical principles to practical applications, such as observing advanced manufacturing processes or material testing methods in action. |
| M.S., St. Cloud State University, 2008 | B.S., Tribhuvan University, 2005 | Research Interests
| Material Characterization | Alloy development | Material Testing | Engineering & Research Facility | ||||
| kriegelman@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1L5b6-RvG2kz4sDKJlZtb7dNJN1rdT20n | Karen | Riegelman | Administrative Assistant | 912-478-4726 | Interdisciplinary Academic Building, Room 3055 | Statesboro Campus | College of Behavioral & Social Sciences | School of Human Ecology | Karen Riegelman is the administrator for the School of Human Ecology. | Don't get so focused on the next thing that you miss the now.You cannot get through a single day without having an impact on the world around you. What you do makes a difference and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make! -Jane Goodall |
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| dmulford@georgiasouthern.edu | Debbie | Mulford | Dr. | 912-344-2898 | Ashmore Hall 216 | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | School of Nursing | Debbie Mulford is an alumni of Armstrong Atlanta State University (MSN, BSN) and Hampton University (Ph.D). Dr. Mulford is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Nursing in the undergraduate program on the Armstrong Campus. Dr. Mulford began her career in 2007 and has coordinated and taught Fundamentals of Nursing/Essential Skills from 2009 - 2023. Dr. Mulford is currently the Skills Lab Coordinator. | My philosophy of teaching is student-centered. In the classroom I have used various teaching strategies to engage the student to critically think. As the lab coordinator, I am responsible for the students learning in the lab setting. The labs are designed for the students to apply the information they have learned from the classroom and gives the student an opportunity to practice a skill in a safe environment with the lab instructor to guide and facilitate the student’s application of a learned skill. I am continually evaluating my teaching practices and methods to ensure that the students are receiving the best learning experience. |
| MSN Armstrong Atlantic State University - 2004 | BSN Armstrong Atlantic State University -1998 | Research Interests
| Teach-back method | |||||||||
| mckinleythomas@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1Pfhbs7zjjtmSmBYQqFiQRrsUvgfgxtC4 | https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Mckinley-Thomas | McKinley | Thomas | Professor (Full), Director - Bachelor of Health Sciences Degree program | 912-344-2656 | University Hall | Armstrong Campus | Waters College of Health Professions | Department of Health Science & Kinesiology | Dr. Thomas received a B.S. (1988) and M.Ed. (1989) in Community Health Education from Georgia College, followed by an Ed.D. in Health Education (1995) from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Affiliations: Arnold School of Public Health (University of South Carolina); Department of Kinesiology and Health Science (Augusta University); Clinical Associate Professor (Medical College of Georgia); Master of Public Health program & Department of Community Medicine (Mercer University); and Department of Health Sciences and Kinesiology (Georgia Southern University). McKinley is currently a Full Professor at Georgia Southern University, a Governor’s Teaching Fellow, and Founding Editor of the Journal of the Georgia Public Health Association. | Students are resilient; they learn despite the confines of the American educational system, which often works against our human inclination toward unfettered exploration of the world around us. Realizing the limitations presented by current ideology, it is proposed here that professional language and communication, critical thinking geared toward best evidence, and social inclusivity are the ultimate characteristics of students poised to take their place as leaders within a diverse society. To this end, our goals are to point students in the right direction, ignite their curiosity, then - stay out of their way. |
| M.Ed, Community Health Education, Georgia College (1989) | Ed.D., Health Education, University of Tennessee, Knoxville (1995) | Research Interests
| Scholarship of Teaching and Learning | Human Sexual Behavior | Health Promotion & Disease Prevention | Pedagogy | ||||
| amyers@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1UnNSI4SjiVI1FoCeed8H3nC2tiu15Fdt | Antonia | Latrice | Myers | 912-478-2622 | PCOB Office 1101 | Statesboro Campus | Parker College of Business | School of Accountancy, Department of Economics, Department of Finance, Department of Information Systems & Analytics, Department of Logistics & Supply Chain Management, Department of Management, Department of Marketing | |||||||||||||||
| caroldeal@georgiasouthern.edu | Carol | Deal | Ms. (NOT MRS.) | 912-478-5138 | Sanford Hall, 3014 | Statesboro Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of Communication Arts | NONE | NONE |
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| pwheaton@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1CGLlpZHGdkiDexJh1XMObwhU4zs0sGjJ | Patrick | Wheaton | Assistant Professor of Communication Studies | 912-478-5933 | Sanford 3031 | Statesboro Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of Communication Arts | I have taught at the university level for 30+ years, as a graduate teaching assistant, lecturer, and professor. I came to the discipline of Communication Studies from my involvement in competitive high school and collegiate debate, where I was a competitor, judge, or coach for 25 years. I teach and study argumentation, public speaking, persuasion, rhetoric, and political communication. | Teaching should be a cooperative venture between the teacher and the students. This does not mean that education is a service industry in which students act as customers purchasing a product. Teachers and students are co-participants in the process of acquiring or producing knowledge. To that end, I construct lectures and discussions that are interactive. I value interactions with students in the classroom and I value their contributions to the learning experience. |
| M.A., Speech Communication, University of Georgia, 1993 | B.A., History, University of Virginia, 1986 | Research Interests
| Rhetoric and Rhetorical Criticism | Political Campaign Communication | Political Debates | Argumentation and Debate | |||||
| jriley@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1Awm4wRPnst1I2LHh31WXPDIOtBd5MFH4 | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/jeffrey-riley | Jeffrey | Riley | Associate Professor | 912-478-6006 | Sanford Hall 1009 | Statesboro Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of Communication Arts | Dr. Jeff Riley joined the Multimedia Journalism faculty at Georgia Southern in 2017, and he currently serves as the sequence coordinator for the MMJ area. His primary research agenda is right-wing radicalization in digital spaces, with a special emphasis on the mechanics of disinformation and violent rhetoric. His second research agenda examines how hyper-local digital spaces are adapting to meet informational demands in "news deserts." Dr. Riley regularly teaches Public Affairs Reporting, STEM Journalism, Sports Journalism, Photojournalism, and Mass Communication Theory. He is a former community journalist, and was born and raised in the central Florida area. | I can teach you how to harness the power of mass media to reach an audience and tell them a compelling true story. Maybe that story is about sports, maybe it's about scientific research, maybe it's about the local city council. Maybe that story is written, maybe it's a video package, maybe it's on TikTok or is a podcast. None of that part matters right now. What matters is that you feel compelled to tell true stories. If you do -- come find me and talk about being a journalism major. |
| MS, Journalism, Ohio University, 2011 | BS, Journalism + Political Science, University of Central Florida, 2010 | Research Interests
| Online misinformation and disinformation | Community journalism | Content analysis | Digital spaces and community formation | ||||
| marlamor@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=10G8IemEMBSCzOqxdM-Y6FEjv6Kgz5pbF | Marla | Morris | Professor, Dr. Marla Morris, PhD, FRSA | 912-478-5942 | Statesboro, COE 2131 | Statesboro Campus | College of Education | Department of Curriculum, Foundations & Reading | Prof., Dr. Marla Morris, FRSA has a PhD in Philosophy from the European Graduate School, a PhD in Education from Louisiana State University. Recent publications include Education at the Edge of Experience: Navigating the Unassimilable (Routledge, 2024); Curriculum Studies in the Age of Covid-19: Stories of the Unbearable (Peter Lang Press, 2022). Curriculum Studies Guidebooks Vols., 1 & 2. (Peter Lang Press, 2016). On Not Being Able to Play: Scholars, Musicians and the Crisis of Psyche (2009, Brill). Teaching Through the Ill Body: A Spiritual and Aesthetic Approach to Pedagogy and Illness (2008, Brill). Jewish Intellectuals and the University (2006, Palgrave). | Research based teaching |
| PhD, Education, Louisiana State University | FRSA (Fellow Royal Society of Arts) | MA Religious Studies, Loyola University New Orleans | BA Philosophy, Tulane University | Research Interests
| Psychoanalysis | Education | |||||
| mgroover@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1jqSua_MTjUJ_ePCRidqCs8fBbMNMCDfL | Michelle | Groover | Principal Lecturer | 912-478-5369 | Sanford | Statesboro Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of Communication Arts | Michelle Groover is a principal lecturer in the Communication Arts Department at Georgia Southern University in Statesboro, Georgia, where she teaches public relations courses. She holds a Ph.D. in Communication from Regent University. Her research interests include crisis communication, popular culture, public relations, and social media. | The 2024 Georgia Southern Faculty Handbook states, “Excellent teaching is reflective, student-centered, respectful of the diversity of students, multimodal, & focused on student learning outcomes” (p. 46). I believe through my engagement with students, both in & outside the classroom, I have exemplified this definition. I wholly support the exchange of ideas & encourage students to enter a dialogue on the topic at hand. I strive to be a good teacher, which I would define as someone who cares if their students succeed or fail (in the classroom & in life); someone who provides a variety of learning opportunities for their students; someone who is available to meet with students; and someone who prepares their students for life after college. |
| M.Ed. Instructional Technology, Georgia Southern University 2005 | Ph.D. Communication, Regent University 2015 | Research Interests
| Public Relations | Social Media | Popular Culture | ||||||
| mplew@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1tIRySmzNau8NMntehx3BiilH406CuJJr | Melissa | Plew | Dr. | 912-478-1847 | 2015 Sanford Hall | Statesboro Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of Communication Arts | Dr. Plew is a teacher-scholar whose work focuses on the classroom. As the Director of Public Speaking, Dr. Plew mentors Graduate Teaching Assistants who work with students in the Public Speaking courses. Her scholarly and professional development work has recently focused on instructor communication in the classroom and implementing relevant activities into her courses. Dr. Plew teaches numerous courses in the Communication Studies area, including Interpersonal Communication, Small Group Communication, and Mediated Communication. | Dr. Plew has two overarching goals in each of her courses. First, she wants to provide opportunities for her students to apply the communication concepts studied in class to their own experiences. Once students realize these theoretical ideas are part of their everyday interactions, they become interested in learning more. Second, she wants to provide opportunities for her students to practice the skills they will use outside the classroom. After they graduate, students will be expected to engage with others, think critically, and present their ideas, so these skills are incorporated into each course Dr. Plew teaches. |
| M.A., Indiana State University, 2002 | B.S., Indiana State University, 1999 | Research Interests
| Internet Use (ethics and privacy) | Media Uses and Effects | Communication Pedagogy | ||||||
| cbgey@georgiasouthern.edu | Chris | Geyerman | Associate Professor | 912-478-5838 | Sanford Hall 3008 | Statesboro Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of Communication Arts | Joined GS in 1987 | Have fun and learn. |
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| doreeneanderson@georgiasouthern.edu | Doreene | Anderson | Custodian | 912-478-5558 | Old Register Rd. P.O. Box 8012, Statesboro, GA 30460 | Statesboro Campus | Southeastern Technical College | Early Childhood Education |
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| apalacios@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1WjCziHocOIwEb8i0GDTFE--1qPuTNp4U | Ana | Palacios | Assistant Professor | 912-478-0501 | Solms 109B | Armstrong Campus | Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health | Department of Health Policy & Community Health | Dr. Ana M. Palacios is a physician and nutrition scientist that joined Georgia Southern University in August 2021. Her research is focused on developing, implementing and scaling effective strategies to improve the nutritional and cardiovascular health of diverse populations. She currently has several ongoing research projects in Latin America, in the US, and in Savannah, GA. |
| Doctorate of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana | Research Interests
| Maternal Health | Implementation Sciences | Community Engaged Participatory Research | Obesity | |||||||
| kjennings@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1I0qgmR9ECz8hWeH8iTwpuUW39gCr2CE5 | Karla | Jennings | Senior Lecturer | 912-344-2633 | Jenkins 105 | Armstrong Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of Communication Arts | Karla Jennings is a senior lecturer for communication studies on the Armstrong Campus. She began her teaching career at the College of Coastal Georgia in 2006, and she joined the Armstrong faculty in 2012. Prior to teaching, she worked in public relations and marketing for the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra, Unison Industries – an aircraft ignition systems manufacturer, and for the Coastal Georgia Center for Continuing Education.In 2018, she was the opening speaker for TEDxSavannah, with a talk about fear of public speaking. She has been a board member of TEDxSavannah since 2022, and has served as a speaker coach since 2017. | I believe that every student has the potential to succeed and that they will if they are engaged in their own learning. Students learn by interacting with one another. It is my responsibility to provide opportunities for that interaction and to model best communication practices. I carefully balance testing with graded and ungraded assignments so that students who work hard succeed. Assignments and presentations are meant to give students opportunities to put it into practice what they have learned. I encourage students to participate in internships, and I continually look for ways to bring the professional world into the classroom by inviting guest speakers into my classes. |
| B.S., Florida State University, 1990 | Research Interests
| TED Talks | |||||||||
| sganun@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1Wl-oKeOOPNlI_O_py3DPTE3lGw2U6mj7 | Shannon | GaNun | Public Speaking Instructor | Armstrong Campus | College of Arts & Humanities | Department of Communication Arts | Shannon has been a communication professional for more than 30 years and has had the privilege of helping companies, associations, nonprofits, and Members of Congress develop clear, compelling messages to achieve their desired results. She is now a sought-after keynote speaker and consultant who offers a unique blend of tactical knowledge and compassion to help business professionals become better leaders.Shannon is also an instructor at Georgia Southern University, teaching public speaking classes to undergraduates and communication and leadership classes to professionals. | I have been a professional communicator for more than 30 years, and I have learned that communication is not just about talking or writing or making the latest TikTok video. It’s about building trust. It’s about creating an atmosphere where students feel heard, respected, and motivated to contribute their own ideas. My teaching methods are engaging, ensuring that students learn practical strategies they can use right away to become better communicators and better leaders. |
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| jenniferwells@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1VoWyO51K1bI9jftOozMsxHossoPfu0R2 | Jennifer | Wells | Department Coordinator | 912-344-3633 | Solms Hall | Armstrong Campus | Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health | Department of Health Policy & Community Health | NA | NA |
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| ytarasenko@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/yelena-n-tarasenko-2 | Yelena | Tarasenko | Professor | 912-478-5057 | Hendricks Hall 2012 | Statesboro Campus | Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health | Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology & Environmental Health Sciences | Dr. Tarasenko holds DrPH and MPH degrees from the University of Kentucky, where she majored in both epidemiology and health services management. She also completed a post-doctoral Health Policy Fellowship with the Academy Health/National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Dr. Tarasenko is Certified in Public Health. She also holds Master of Science in Financial Planning, Master of Public Administration and law degrees. More recently, Dr. Tarasenko received a Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program award to Latvia. She is also serving as consultant for the World Health Organization, Regional Office for Europe. | While teaching doctoral and more recently, undergraduate students, Dr. Tarasenko tries to bring her research and service into the classroom. She is a strong advocate for organizing courses around service learning projects and providing students with hands-on learning experiences. For example, she has promoted her research interests in cancer prevention and control and dedication to service for the vulnerable populations through service-learning in doctoral-level courses on research methods, epidemiology, and grant-writing. Students’ projects received several awards at various competitions, including at the GSU Eagle Showcase: Excellence in Service-Learning. |
| Master of Public Health (MPH, University of Kentucky, 2009) | Master of Science in Financial Planning (MSFP, University of Georgia, 2023) | Master of Public Administration (MPA, Southern Illinois University, 2004) | Law degree (J.D. Equivalent, Southern Illinois University Law School/Vladimir State University, 2002) | Research Interests
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| ldraughorne@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1WzKfktFnNFc7WX5A2jVfqv5l8fnoFYR2 | Lauren | Draughorne | Coordinator, Office of Inclusive Excellence | 912-478-0271 | Marvin Pittman 0004A | Statesboro Campus | Office of Inclusive Excellence | ||||||||||||||||
| dwanduku@georgiasouthern.edu | https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=lHtiY54AAAAJ&hl=en | Divine | Wanduku | Associate Professor of Statistics | 912-478-4728 | Math/Physics Room 3309 | Statesboro Campus | College of Science & Mathematics | Department of Mathematical Sciences | Dr. Wanduku is a Statistician and Applied Mathematician in the Department of Mathematical Sciences and has been Director of the Statistical Consulting Unit (SCU) since 2019. He is also an affiliate faculty member of the Oliver Jr. ICPS. His research spans Statistics, Probability Theory, and Applied Mathematics, with expertise in stochastic analysis, distribution theory, statistical inference, biostatistics, and reliability analysis. An Associate Editor for "Stochastic Analysis and Applications", he has published extensively, served as Lead Editor for two books, and mentored ten graduate students, fostering interdisciplinary scholarship. | TBA |
| Ph.D. in Mathematics with Concentration in Statistics, University of South Florida | M.S. in Statistics, University of South Florida | M.Sc. Mathematics, University of Buea, Cameroon | B.Sc. Mathematics, University of Buea, Cameroon | Research Interests
| Distribution theory, reliability & survival analysis | Statistical inference & computational statistics | Biostatistics | Mathematical biology | Oliver Institute for Coastal Plain Science, Statistical Consulting Unit (SCU), Statistics Group | ||
| jazzkiajones@georgiasouthern.edu | https://drive.google.com/open?id=1SmmuuKyQfPRVq44qrgKnKW2t80gwxbbF | Jazzkia | Jones | Director, Office of Inclusive Excellence | 912-478-0274 | Marvin Pittman Suite 0004 - Office 0004B | Armstrong Campus, Liberty Campus, Statesboro Campus | Jazzkia Jones serves as the Director for the Office of Inclusive Excellence. Her main responsibilities are to design, implement, and manage programs and initiatives that support the OIE mission to create and nurture an environment in which all members of the University community are treated equitably, contribute fully to the university’s mission, and embrace and model the university’s values. She joined Georgia Southern University in July 2021. Jazzkia has a Bachelor of Arts in Writing from DePauw University and a Masters of Education in Higher Education Administration from the University of Pittsburgh. |
| Masters of Education in Higher Educational Administration from the University of Pittsburgh |
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