University presents prestigious honors to faculty and staff

^{Carson-Newman University recognized faculty and staff with its highest recognitions during its annual Honors Convocation. Pictured are: Front row, left to right, University President J. Randall O’Brien; Rev. Chad Morris and Amy Humphrey, co- recipients of the SOAR Award. Second Row, left to right, Dr. David Crutchley, Distinguished Faculty Award; Dr. Hester Beecher, Community Service Award and University Provost Paul Percy.}

(April 7, 2016) – Carson-Newman University presented some of its most prestigious faculty and staff recognitions during its annual Honors Convocation on Thursday, April 7. Those honored included Dr. Hester Beecher, Dr. David Crutchley, Amy Humphrey and Rev. Chad Morris.

Dr. David Crutchley was named recipient of the Distinguished Faculty Award, the University’s highest honor given to a faculty member. A native of Zimbabwe who joined Carson-Newman’s faculty in 2004, Crutchley is chair of the Religion Department. He is described as a “favorite” professor by many students, who credit his exams as a remarkable foretaste of graduate school.

“David is admired here and abroad, respected by colleagues and loved by his students,” said University President J. Randall O’Brien to those gathered for the morning event.

Outside the classroom, Crutchley has worked with the International Mission Board at the Baptist Seminary in Cape Town, South Africa, served with the Baptist World Alliance and led tours in the Holy Land and leads one annually to South Africa.

Crutchley has preached and lectured across the globe from Brazil to Russia. He earned both undergraduate and professional legal degrees at the University of Rhodesia before earning his Master of Divinity and PhD degrees from Southwestern.

Amy Humphrey and Rev. Chad Morris were named this year’s SOAR Award recipients, the highest honor given to staff members. Humphrey serves as coordinator of First Generation Students and advising counselor for the University’s Student Success Center. Her colleagues describe her as embodying a Christian attitude of self-sacrifice, always approaching tasks with a positive spirit, attitude and work ethic. Humphrey is cited as being devoted to Carson-Newman’s mission to helping students become servant leaders. She has been championed for “going the extra mile” to support the academic work of faculty by encouraging and mentoring students.

Morris, who serves as associate director of Campus Ministries, is credited for his helpful attitude and a genuine love for people. His heart for others is seen in his support of students, faculty and staff during times of crisis, illness and grief. From his work with the University’s SPOTS mission trips to serving on the board for YOKE area youth ministry, Morris demonstrates compassion for others while exhibiting an excellence in leadership and devotion to helping students succeed.

Dr. Hester Beecher is 2016’s Community Service honoree. Beecher, who serves as assistant professor of marketing in the Business and Economics Department, was cited as “a multi-faceted and much appreciated volunteer.” She is a long time financial supporter, encourager and facilitator for Young Life. Her work with Mission of Hope has helped the ministry in successful food drives and in support and awareness. Beecher’s committee work and event planning has helped Friends of the Smokies raise well more than $4 million for the national park. Her heart for service led her to a decade of raising funds for the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign. Her other involvements include Knox Area Rescue Mission, Cedar Springs Presbyterian Church, Young-Williams Animal Shelter and Central Veterinary Hospital and donating to Pantene Beautiful Lengths program.