Jones receives University’s Teaching Excellence and Leadership Award

^{Dr. Christine Jones, center, is congratulated by Dr. Kina Mallard, Carson-Newman’ s executive vice president and provost, and C-N President Randall O’Brien following the University’s Fall Convocation. Jones was this year’s recipient of the Teaching Excellence and Leadership Award.}

Dr. Christine Jones was named the recipient of Carson-Newman University’s Teaching Excellence and Leadership Award. The assistant professor of religion was recognized during the University’s 2013 Fall Convocation on Aug. 27.

Dr. Kina Mallard, C-N executive vice president and provost, introduced Jones before faculty, staff and students gathered for the occasion.

“She was described as a creative, effective, and simply put, outstanding teacher,” said Mallard, recounting remarks made by Jones’ colleagues who nominated her for the award. “Evidence of her ability to relate to her students was provided in the example of incorporating a Twitter assignment where students were asked to take complex ideas related to Dietrich Bonhoeffer, and break the complex ideas into 140 characters.”

Jones, a Jefferson City resident, joined C-N’s faculty in 2008. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Ouachita Baptist University where she graduated magna cum laude. She went on to earn the Master of Divinity degree from George W. Truett Theological Seminary and her doctorate from Baylor University. She is a member of First Baptist Church of Jefferson City.

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 $1,000 check, awardees’ names are added to a permanent display in Fite Administration Building.