Drs. Lang and Sobiech earn 2016 Teaching Excellence and Leadership Award

^{Carson-Newman University presented Drs. Cindy Lang and Michael Sobiech with the 2016 Teaching Excellence and Leadership Award during the University’s Fall Convocation. Pictured left to right are Lang, Sobiech and Dr. Paul Percy, the University’s acting president and provost.}

(Sept. 6, 2016) – Carson-Newman University recognized Drs. Cindy Lang and Michael Sobiech, during its 2016 Fall Convocation. The two were awarded the University’s Teaching Excellence and Leadership Award.

“Both Dr. Lang and Dr. Sobiech exhibit the qualities that Carson-Newman holds dear,” said Dr. Paul Percy, the University’s acting president and provost. “Their leadership, both inside and outside the classroom, has inspired colleagues and impacted our students. They are truly excellent in what they do.“

Lang serves as assistant professor of education and director of Offsite Education Programs. She is described as setting high standards for courses and students, as well as integrating her Christian faith in all of her classes. Lang is also credited among many of her accomplishments as helping the University to become one of the first seven programs in the state to pass new rigorous requirements for program approval for special education.

Credited for an ability to connect with his students and make the classroom an inviting place for interactive learning, Sobiech often combines technology and popular culture in his teaching. The assistant professor of English and director of the University’s Writing Program is championed for his enthusiasm and for his work in helping to develop Carson-Newman’s professional writing minor.

Given to a non-tenured faculty member since 1990, the honor is presented to creative and effective professors. It is considered an indicator of future promise as well as recognition of ability and student response. Beyond receiving a plaque and a monetary award, recipients’ names are added to a permanent display in Fite Administration Building.