1999-2000: The Year In Review

Honored Faculty and Staff

Four faculty and two staff members were honored during commencement in June for outstanding accomplishments and contributions.

Tim Tiffin, associate professor of mathematics, received the $1500 President’s Fund Award for Excellence in Teaching. In nominating him, one student said, “His serene nature will quiet any frustrated student’s anxiety. I felt that we weren’t just his students, we were his friends.” “Tiffin represents an academic discipline not all students look forward to taking,” says John Brunt, vice president for academic administration. “Yet the students who nominated him were not mathematics majors, but those who are required to take his classes for general education. That makes the strong affirmation even more impressive.”

David Lindsey, assistant professor of biology, received the $1500 President’s Fund Award for Excellence in Scholarship. Lindsey has distinguished himself as a teacher, scholar, and author. He mentors student scholars in many ways including successfully obtaining grants to involve students in his research. Currently, Lindsey is studying tissue development, focusing on how a single cell can differentiate into multiple tissue types. Prestigious publications such as The Journal of Biological Chemistry have published his research.

Jon Cole, professor of engineering and director of interdisciplinary programs in environmental studies and bioengineering, received a $500 award for Excellence in Advising. Cole advises students in several different interdisciplinary programs having complicated requirements. One student says, “He knows the requirements and is very thorough, and I know I can talk to him if I have a problem. He shows concern and gives guidance without overdoing it.”

Laurel Dovich, associate professor of engineering, received the $1200 Engineering Teaching Excellence Award from students in consultation with the dean of the School of Engineering. Richard Beherens, a 1985 WWC engineering graduate, sponsors the annual award. Students cite Dovich’s enthusiasm and knowledge saying, “She presents the material in an interesting way. She stretches and challenges students and is interested in our success personally.”

Lorraine Jacobs, accounts payable clerk, received a $500 Outstanding Staff award. Jacobs has worked at WWC since her graduation 11 years ago. Those who nominated her said, “She exemplifies the spirit that makes WWC what it is: hard work, dedication, excellence, and holistic spirituality in terms of living it, not just talking it.” (Jacobs recently left WWC to pursue a law degree.)

Betty Duncan, director of academic advisement, also received a $500 Outstanding Staff award. She has been an assistant dean as well as coordinator and director of academic advisement during her 28 years of service at WWC. Fellow employees praise her saying, “She knows everything and adds spice to campus life. The humble devotion and labor of love provided by her is a wonderful example of Christian service that all of us seek to emulate.”

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