FCBE faculty and staff received awards at 2017 spring meeting

For release:  May 15, 2016

Nine FCBE faculty and staff members received awards at the 2017 spring faculty and staff meeting, with eight receiving George Johnson Awards and one the Dean's Service Award. These faculty and staff members were recognized for either their excellent service in staff roles or for their outstanding faculty performances.

A George Johnson Fellow Award was presented to one FCBE faculty member in the "Teaching" category. Dr. Irvin Tankersley, associate professor of legal environment in the School of Accountancy, won for his influential and effective interaction with his students. His nominators and supporters emphasized his dedication to influencing his students in a positive way, while preparing them for productive careers. One of his students commented, "He views everyday as an opportunity to impact the lives of students through academic, professional, and even personal development."

Dr. Irvin Tankersley (center) receiving the George Johnson Fellow Award for Teaching from Dean Rajiv Grover (left) and George Johnson (right).

Three members of the FCBE faculty were recipients of the George Johnson Fellow Award in the "Research" category. Dr. Joseph Zhang, assistant professor of Accountancy, was the first recipient of this award. He has had two articles published in Contemporary Accounting Research in the past year, along with an established record of research productivity. Dr. Kenton Walker, chair of the School of Accountancy, commented that Dr. Zhang "has achieved an unprecedented level of success in the department."

Dr. Joseph Zhang (center) receiving the George Johnson Fellow Award for Research from Dean Rajiv Grover (left) and George Johnson (right).

Dr. Jamin Speer, assistant professor in the Department of Economics, was the second winner in the "Research" category. He was selected for this award based on his highly productive work in research. He was published as a solo author this year in Labour Economics. Dr. Bill Smith, chair of the Economics Department stated that Dr. Speer "has added much to the quantity and quality of the intellectual discourse in the department."

Dr. Jamin Speer (center) receiving the George Johnson Fellow Award for Research from Dean Rajiv Grover (left) and George Johnson (right).

The third award in the "Research" category went to Dr. Albert Okunade, professor in the Department of Economics. He received this award based on his continued demonstration of significant and sustained scholarship throughout his career. His faculty nominator stated that he "could not think of a colleague better deserving" and noted his respect for him as a high performing colleague and excellent researcher.

Dr. Albert Okunade (center) receiving the George Johnson Fellow Award for Research from Dean Rajiv Grover (left) and George Johnson (right).

One FCBE faculty member received the George Johnson Fellow Award in the "Service" category. Dr. Kathy Tuberville, instructor in the Department of Management and director of the Avron B. Fogelman Professional Development Center, received the award for her passion of encouraging student success. She is dedicated to improving the knowledge, character, confidence, and communication skills of FCBE students. Through her involvement in many programs, she is significantly contributing to the successful preparation of our students for their careers.

Dr. Kathy Tuberville (center) receiving the George Johnson Fellow Award for Research from Dean Rajiv Grover (left) and George Johnson (right).

Dean Grover and George Johnson presented each of these George Johnson Fellow Awards, which includes a commemorative plaque and a $10,000 stipend.

George Johnson Staff Awards were presented to three FCBE staff members. Tarranda Silas, administrative secretary in the Department of Management, won for her outstanding service to the Department. She performs her work tasks at the highest level and exceeds expectations by continuously learning new processes, anticipating needs, and offering help to solve any problems that arise.

Tarranda Silas (center) receiving the George Johnson Staff Award for from Dean Rajiv Grover (left) and George Johnson (right).

Mary Johnson, FCBE honors advisor, was also awarded a George Johnson Staff Award for her extraordinary performance. She works intensively with the FCBE honors students to ensure that they receive effective advising and out-of-class opportunities. She takes a personal interest in students' academic success and their opportunity to have meaningful employment upon graduation.

The third recipient of the George Johnson Staff Award was Carolyn Cates, assistant director of the Avron Fogelman Professional Development Center. She demonstrates great energy and dedication to helping students prepare for internships and careers by providing honest, supportive feedback to facilitate self-improvement. During her time at FCBE the number of employers in the Fogelman Internship Network has doubled and the number of internship placements has tripled.

Carolyn Cates (center) receiving the George Johnson Staff Award for from Dean Rajiv Grover (left) and George Johnson (right).

Dean Grover presented the George Johnson Staff awards based on recommendations of an advisory committee. The award included a plaque and a $5,000 stipend.

The Dean's Service Award was presented to a staff member who has demonstrated exceptional performance in the fulfillment of their duties. Jan Dugan, program coordinator of the Avron Fogelman Professional Development Center, was named the recipient of this award. Jan provides major support to the Center, including effectively handling student registrations for all Complete Professional Development Programs and preparing communication pieces for the Center. She is a favorite among students for her warm spirit, willingness to serve, and student-centered focus.

Dean Grover presenting the Dean's Service Award to Jan Dugan (right).
The Dean's Service Award winners received a plaque and a $1,000 stipend.