Circle of Excellence 2014

A ceremony to recognize the 2013-14 Northeastern State University Circle of Excellence Awards was held April 29th 2014 in the Tower Room of the W. Roger Webb Educational Technology Center. This year's awards were given to: Dr. Christine Hallman for Teaching; Dr. Mark Paulissen for Research; and Dr. David Lewerenz for Service.

Hallman, assistant professor of geography since 2010, uses active learning to engage students in the College of Liberal Arts. She holds a Ph.D. in geography from the University of Arizona, master's degrees in geosciences and geography from University of Arizona and Murray State University and a bachelor's degree in geology and geography from Murray State University.

"My role in the classroom is to guide, encourage, and respect learners. The most important objectives that I can achieve as a teacher are to inspire students to become better world citizens and life-long learners," Hallman said. One student said, "She is the epitome of what a great teacher is. Clearly Dr. Hallman's goal is to equip students with the tools and thinking necessary to succeed. In this age of teachers standing in front of a classroom and lecturing, Dr. Hallman has found a way to step out of the lecture box and engage students in the learning process."

Paulissen, professor of biology since 2006, is part of a rigorous research program in the Gregg Wadley College of Science & Health Professions. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Oklahoma in zoology, a master's degree in zoology from the University of Arkansas and a bachelor's degree in zoology from the University of Arkansas. His research interest is the little brown skink lizard.

"The best thing about getting students involved in research is the pride and sense of accomplishment they feel when their research turns up something unexpected. When they present their results at a meeting and/or in a paper which they co-author, they become members of the scientific community who have added a small piece to the body of scientific knowledge." Paulissen said. One of his students said, "My research experience with you not only allowed me to publish my first article in a scientific journal as an undergraduate, but it also gave me the insight and skills to advance myself academically and professionally. For this I am forever grateful."

Lewerenz, associate professor of optometry since 2007, has made contributions in the area of low vision. He graduated with a doctorate of optometry from the University of Alabama and a bachelor of science in physiological optics from the University of Alabama.

Among his list of many service activities, Lewerenz worked to make the Lesley L. Walls Vision Center a reality. "Our mission is to provide low vision services, as well as care for brain injury patients and vision therapy, for the people of Northeastern Oklahoma. For the past six years I have been the primary advocate, designer and detail person for this clinic, working on floor plans, communicating with architects, contractors and NSU staff, ordering equipment, designing schedules, writing projections and business plans, and building partnerships to insure the clinic's success", he said.

The Circle of Excellence is NSU's highest faculty honor. Only full-time faculty are eligible.