Chris Swift, associate professor of business administration, has been awarded the 2023-24 Exemplary Teacher of the Year.
The award is given to an ߲ݴý professor who exemplifies excellence in teaching, civility and concern for students and colleagues, commitment to value-centered education, and service to students, the institution, community or church. The award is sponsored by the Division of Higher Education of the United Methodist Church and the Office of the President at ߲ݴý.
Swift was nominated by his fellow faculty members who shared that he creates meaningful relationships with students and goes above-and-beyond his role.
“He is the kind of colleague, team player, and teacher we value most at ߲ݴý. He always has a kind word for everyone he sees, he takes the time to listen to students and colleagues, and he makes our ߲ݴý community a better place to learn and work,” one faculty member said.
Swift’s colleagues also said:
- “He takes the time to learn new skills to bring them into his courses, and he puts students at the center of his teaching and advising, ensuring that they are individuals and not simply part of a crowd.”
- “Over several summers Chris has taken on a high number of transfer and new student advisees, spending time with each one so that they have the classes the need in the fall. He enthusiastically stepped up to teach an Archway Seminar for the first time this year, which ended up being his favorite class.”
- “Chris embodies excellence in teaching and personal attention to students. He takes whatever time is necessary to make sure all students in his classes understand the concepts they need. He stays current in his field by teaching himself new things and then teaching them to the students.”
- “He has the heart for teaching, he is dedicated to helping the students, making sure they are where they want to be.”