Faculty honored with professor emeritus title

Carson-Newman University honors four retired faculty members with the title of professor emeritus. The group was recognized during the University’s annual Honors Convocation on April 21. Those honored are Drs. Sheridan Barker, Ross Brummett, Don Garner and Peggy Hypes.

“It is truly an honor to recognize the service and dedication of Drs. Barker, Brummett, Garner and Hypes,” said University Provost Jeremy Buckner. “With over 150 years of collective service to Carson-Newman, these four beloved faculty are cherished by all in our community. Their passion for our students and our Christian mission is to be commended.”

Sheridan C. Barker, Professor Emeritus of Communication (1980-2020): Throughout Barker’s 40-year tenure, he sought to instill in his students the appreciation and understanding of the power of communication. Along with teaching in the department, he also served as chair. He co-founded the Association of Christian Collegiate Media, and is a member of the Society for Collegiate Journalists, the Public Relations Society of America and the American Advertising Federation. The 1972 alumnus was the first inductee into Alpha Chi’s chapter at C-N that same year. He went on to earn his master’s degree and doctorate from the University of Tennessee.

Ross Brummett, Professor Emeritus of Religion (1987-2020): Brummett joined C-N’s faculty to direct the Norton Institute of Christian Ministries. Beyond teaching intro courses in both biblical Testaments, he specialized in theology courses and spiritual growth and development. As a faculty member he was championed as a student advisor. He served as the University’s faculty athletics representative, and later was appointed vice president for Student Affairs. He earned his undergraduate degree from Ouachita Baptist University and his master’s degree and doctorate from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Don W. Garner, Professor Emeritus of Religion (1980-2020): A graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Garner earned his Master of Divinity degree and doctorate from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. During his tenure at C-N, the Old Testament professor worked his way up through the faculty ranks serving as chair of the Religion Department. With a desire to learn and share with his students, Garner took part in an ongoing archaeological excavation project in Jordan, collaborating with members of sister institutions as part of Kerak Resources Project. Not only would he return to share results with his classes, but he also worked with students and alumni at the Middle Eastern site.

Margret (Peggy) Hypes, Professor Emeritus of Education (1977-2020): Over the course of teaching at C-N, Hypes developed a reputation of making her discipline of education quite appealing- even to non-majors. She possessed a passion for her field and to preparing her students for their own future classrooms. Along with advising students and directing admission and retention for C-N’s Teacher Education Program, she helped lead efforts for both SACS and NCATE reaccreditation committees. She earned her undergraduate degree from Maryville College and her Master of Arts degree from George Washington University. She received her doctorate from the University of Tennessee.

To receive emeritus status, retired faculty must have held rank of at least tenured associate professor, completed at least ten years of service at Carson-Newman, be recommended by the department chair, school dean or dean of Library Services to the provost and president, as well as receive approval from the University’s Board of Trustees.