(February 25, 2014)

Centenary celebrates Founders' Day 2014 with special awards

SHREVEPORT, LA — Thursday the Centenary family celebrated Founders' Day, an annual tradition during which the community reflects upon the history of the institution and looks forward to its future with Morning Call and Convocation. At Morning Call, faculty and staff were recognized for their years of service:

10 years

Mrs. Melinda Koch, Health and Counseling Services Coordinator
Dr. Michelle Glaros, Associate Professor of Art; R.Z Biedenharn Chair in Communication
Dr. Scott Chirhart, Associate Professor of Biology; Chair of the Department of Biology
Dr. Jeanne Hamming, Chair of the English Department; Associate Professor of English
Dr. Todd Gabriel, Associate Professor of Music

15 years

Mrs. Janet Ingram, Office Manager for Admission
Mr. Chris Derrick, Assistant Director of IT Operations

20 years

Mrs. Marcia Alexander, Library Access Officer

25 years

Dr. Betsy Rankin, Professor of Economics
Dr. David Havird, Professor of English
Dr. David Bieler, Associate Professor of Geology; Chair of the Department of Geology

30 years

Mr. Bruce Allen, Professor of Art, Chair of the Department of Art & Visual Culture, Head of Logistics & Exhibition Design at Meadows Museum of Art
Dr. Jeff Hendricks, Professor of English

Dr. Harold Christensen, Director of the Economic Education Center and Professor of Economics, received the Charlton Lyons Summer Research Award. He is currently working on a project that will build on past research regarding land-grant colleges by developing a greater understanding of tribal institutions and compile data to determine economic differences among traditional, historically black, and tribal colleges.

Michael Mims, plumber and events maintenance, was named recipient of the President's Excellence Award. Mims was delighted to receive such recognition.

"I was so surprised—they really got me," said Mims who has been on staff for nearly 28 years. "I had no idea that was going to happen that morning. It made me so happy to know that what I have been doing all these years was noticed and important."

Centenary student voters elected Dr. Matthew Weeks, James Chair of Psychology, the 2014 Outstanding Teacher Award.

"To be selected as the Outstanding Teacher from amongst my very talented colleagues was an unexpected thrill," said Weeks. "It's such a pleasure to work with our students alongside my talented colleagues. I appreciate the kind accolades from my students, and it motivates me all the more to give them the exceptional experience they deserve."

The Honorable Jean-Claude Brunet, Consul General of France in New Orleans closed out the festivities with a convocation address in Brown Memorial Chapel.