Greenwood, July 11, 2024

In a remarkable shift to the academic status quo at the Lander University, President Dr. Richard Cosentino announced a series of faculty promotions and tenure awards for the upcoming 2024/25 academic year.

Faculty Recognition and Advancement

At a time when the skies had some clouds, with a low 69F, and light and variable winds, a significant press release was shared with the Lander University community. On the recommendation of the provost and the University Tenure and Promotions Committee, several faculty members, known for their excellence in teaching, scholarship, and service at Lander, were selected for promotion and/or tenure.

Promotions to Professorship

The outstanding stalwarts who have been promoted to the prestigious rank of Professor included: Dr. Farha Ali, of the Department of Mathematics and Computing; Dr. Liz McDowell, of the School of Nursing; Asma Nazim-Starnes, of the Department of Art + Design; and Dr. Emily Prince, of the Department of Biology.

Associate Professors with Tenure

Adding to the diversity in the range of promotions, the university also elevated faculty members to the rank of Associate Professor, with the added privilege of tenure. Among these are Dr. Jeff Barfield, of the Department of Physical Education and Exercise Science; Dr. Matthew Collier, of the Department of Teacher Education; Dr. Whitney Craig, of the Department of Physical Sciences; Dr. Cherie Rains, of the College of Business; Dr. Zach Rubin, of the Department of Government, Criminology and Sociology; and Dr. Susan Shurden, of the College of Business.

New Senior Lecturer

Another significant move witnessed by the institution was the promotion of Lindsey Bowen to the rank of Senior Lecturer in the Department of Biology.

Refreshing Changes for the Upcoming Academic Year

The changes bode a fascinating and refreshing academic ambiance for the forthcoming year 2024/25 at Lander University. The newly promoted professors and associate professors, well decorated with a blend of intellectual collaborative experience and individual expertise, are set to foster an academic ecosystem that thrives on innovation, research, and student engagement.

The decision to grant tenure signifies the university’s recognition of consistent superior performance and potential for continued growth. With Lander University leading with such substantial advancements in faculty promotions and tenure grants, these initiatives will undoubtedly bolster the institution’s reputation and contribute to its further growth.