Friends University congratulates the recipients of the W.A. Young Excellence in Teaching Award and the Jan LaFever Award for Adjunct Teaching. The awards were presented at the University’s Commencement ceremony May 13.
Dr. Patrick Mathews, professor of biology and program director of zoo science, received the W.A. Young Excellence in Teaching Award. Dr. Mathews challenges students to question what they learn, which contributes to their personal growth. He regularly asks students to make logical and ethical arguments for modern-day issues. “Organized” and “well-designed” are hallmarks of classes with Dr. Mathews, and students describe his instruction as “engaging, interesting, interactive and fun.”
Sean Johnston, adjunct faculty member, received the Jan LaFever Adjunct Faculty Teaching Award. Johnston joined Friends University as an adjunct professor of criminal justice in 2008. Students describe him as excellent in relating information through life examples and current events. As an individual who thinks outside the box, Johnston fosters a genuine desire to learn and use critical thinking skills, and he teaches the value of hard work.
Barbara Lucas, adjunct faculty member, also received the Jan LaFever Adjunct Faculty Teaching Award. Lucas has worked in Friends University’s Marriage and Family Therapy program at the Kansas City site since 2013. She is skilled at growing students academically and professionally through flexible, creative engagement activities. Her fresh thinking makes learning fun and meaningful, according to her students.
Faculty, students and staff nominate full-time and adjunct faculty members for these awards.
Friends University, a Christian University of Quaker heritage, equips students to honor God and serve others by integrating their intellectual, spiritual and professional lives.