Faculty from 20 private colleges were recognized for their dedication to teaching and learning by the South Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities (SCICU) at the 5th Annual Excellence in Teaching Awards Dinner.

“This year’s award recipients demonstrated a remarkable blend of scholarship, passion, commitment, and the ability to motivate students to new heights,” said Sara Fisher, chair of the SCICU Board of Trustees. The ceremony was part of S.C. Independent College and University Week observed April 12–16.

The recipients of the 2010 SCICU Excellence in Teaching Award are: Dr. Oluwole Adebisi Ariyo, Allen University; Dr. David O. Korn, Anderson University; Dr. Raymond Lee, Benedict College; Dr. Arnold J. Hite, Sr., Charleston Southern University; Dr. Randall H. Harris, Claflin University; Dr. William D. Carswell, Coker College; Dr. John Zubizarreta, Columbia College; Dr. Stephen H. Farra, Columbia International University; Dr. Mirko M. Hall, Converse College; Dr. Stephen B. Sniteman, Erskine College, Dr. A. Scott Henderson, Furman University; Mr. R. Gabriel Stoeppler, Limestone College; Dr. Dorothy B. Bishoff, Morris College; Dr. Cindy Johnson–Taylor, Newberry College; Dr. Cheryl Collier, North Greenville University; Dr. Richard Edward Newman, Presbyterian College; Dr. Susan Rouse, Southern Wesleyan University; Dr. John R. Williams, Spartanburg Methodist College; Dr. Lugenia Rochelle, Voorhees College; and Dr. Caroline A. Cunningham, Wofford College.

Each of the 20 member institutions of the SCICU consortium selects one faculty member each year to receive the award, which includes a professional development stipend of $3,000 for the professor. Each recipient is chosen by his or her institution according to rigorous criteria. The most important characteristic of the nominees is their demonstration of the highest standards in teaching methods that encourage students to strive for excellence in their studies and pursuits.