Faculty Directory

Search

Adams, Susan

Alderman, Brian

Bernard, Ryan

Blevins, Christy

Bordwine, Karen

Boyer, Pepsi

Brammer, Erika

Brown, Mica

Brumlik, Alexander

Byington, Elizabeth "Lori"

School of Health and Professional Sciences elbyingt@king.edu Lorine Crockett Bristol Hall 109 423-652-6049 Elizabeth Byington Elizabeth Byington <p><span style="font-size:12px"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif">I am from Bristol, VA but now live in Bristol, TN.  I graduated from King College in 1985 (BA) and then earned my MA degree from ETSU in 1987 (MA). I have taught English since 1986. I am married and have one son. <span style="background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255); color:rgb(51, 51, 51)">My quote from Emerson reflects my love and passion for horses. The quote from Marilyn Monroe reflects my interest in her and her life. I was born October after she was murdered in August 1962. Then the quotes from Twain and Thoreau reflect my career and love for writing and reading.</span></span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:12px"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif">I earned my Graduate Certificate in Professional Communication in 2014 from Minnesota State University, Mankato, MN.</span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:12px"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif">I began teaching at King 20 years after I graduated from King (1985-2005). I have taught Freshmen composition here for the duration, although I also taught Reading for the first two years. I now also teach Research and Writing. I really love what I do, but I love the "kids" more.</span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:12px"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif">My interests include snow skiing, horses, writing, cooking/baking and family. My son and I snow ski competitively with Team Beech, Beech Mountain, NC and NASTAR. Think of Bode Miller, Ted Ligety and Lindsey Vonn (Olympic alpine skiers), if you will. I have hunted hogs and ducks in the past, but now I leave the hunting to my husband and son. I write poetry and short stories, and I have been published several times.</span></span></p> "Lori" "Lori" Byington

Cash, Michelle

Caudill, Jason

Clay, Shea

Cockerham, Craig

Connor, Mary

Cooper, Terry

Darko, George

DeFord, John "Kevin"

Dotterweich, Martin

Drum, Kathryn

Dunford, Timothy

Eastwood, Justin

Edmison, Amy

Eisenhower, Olga

Evans, Roy "Sam"

Ferguson, Julia

Flannagan, William "Pat"

College of Arts and Sciences wpflanna@king.edu Patrick Chapel #12 423-652-4846 William Flannagan William Flannagan <p>Every day when I come to work, I know two things: 1) I am going to learn something today and 2) I am going to try to teach my students something today.  Both the learning and the teaching are symbiotic and are informed by my constant immersion into the musical compositions that I study and perform.  From King David to the devotional chants of early monks to the brilliance of Morten Lauridsen in the 21st century, music speaks to the spirits of people in ways that mere words are incapable. </p> <p>As an undergraduate I, as many, felt rather directionless. The influence of one music teacher at King College changed my life and provided me with that direction for which I was searching.  Following his advice, I pursued advanced degrees in music and have since performed in Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, Avery Fisher Hall, Sterling Castle in Scotland, the Apollo Theater in Greece, etc.  How did this happen to a directionless student from Bristol, TN?  It happened because of the hard work of many teachers who invested themselves in me.  It also happened because I finally listened to God's call for my life.</p> <p>My goal everyday is to assist other students in finding their strengths, identifying their weaknesses, and to provide them with the necessary tools of evaluation to be successful after they leave King University. My work is focused mostly on music history and choral music and if this process leads them into a life of professional music, that is wonderful.  However, if the experiences at King lead them into other callings, that is equally rewarding.</p> <p>Away from the college, my life is focused upon family.  Beyond that, I am a life-long baseball fan (especially St. Louis Cardinals), I'm a vegetable gardener of sorts, and love a good game of cards to relax.  People who know me well know that I love good food. I love to cook it, to eat it and to learn about the foods from other cultures.<br />  </p> "Pat" "Pat" Flannagan

Funk, Jeremiah

Gilmer, John

Gilmore, Randall

Graves, James

Harosky, Tammy

Harr, Jon

School of Health and Professional Sciences jmhelbert@king.edu Melesia 205 Bristol Hall 423.652.4714 Jodi Helbert Jodi Helbert <p><span style="font-size:12px"><span style="font-family:times new roman,times,serif">As human beings, our life journeys are inextricably linked – first and foremost to our creator, and then to each other. Our personal stories have far-reaching implications for the next generations. We have a responsibility to ourselves, our offsprings, to our significant others, to God, and to society to speak life and make our truths positive ones! When one of us is threatened, we are all at risk; therefore, each of us represents a vital thread in the tapestry of another. As a more naïve, younger woman, I did not fully understand this concept. Through education and research, as well as lived experience, I know this to be factual. The knowledge of this premise </span></span><span style="font-size:12px"><span style="font-family:times new roman,times,serif">lends</span></span><span style="font-size:12px"><span style="font-family:times new roman,times,serif"> to the passion I feel for Social Work - not just an understanding of the human condition, but a desire to be an agent to improve it and perpetuate and instill that desire in others.</span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:12px"><span style="font-family:times new roman,times,serif">I am the founding Coordinator for the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) Program at King University. In addition to the administrative responsibilities of this position, I also develop and teach courses each semester. I love teaching and the ability to revisit concepts and expound on them. I am eternally grateful for this honored and entrusted position I hold. My hope is that while teaching students the skills necessary to make communities whole, that God is given all the glory. I do not take this appointment lightly.</span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:12px"><span style="font-family:times new roman,times,serif">My scholarly interests are many: My past research has held a clinical basis, while my current research leans more heavily toward social justice. My dissertation topic was related to regional attitudes toward interracial relationships, seeking to extrapolate causality in the development of positive and negative attitudes, as well as exploring the role of historicity of the academy in feeding racial animus. This research has been fueled by a fascination for our diverse world. I am able to bring this empirical research into the classroom, in many instances sharing the bases of social constructs, history, and oppressive forces, as well as scientific findings, cognitive neuroscience (brain research), and various other dynamics impacting social justice, humanity, and human behavior.</span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:12px"><span style="font-family:times new roman,times,serif">I believe in service to others. I provide weekly pro-bono addictions counseling, training, and consultation. I serve on various boards within the community and share material resources in numerous ways. I am a Board Certified Diplomat (BCD) in </span></span><span style="font-size:12px"><span style="font-family:times new roman,times,serif">clinical</span></span><span style="font-size:12px"><span style="font-family:times new roman,times,serif"> Social Work and SAMHSA certified to train in Trauma-Informed Care (TIC).  I am a member of the American Academy of Christian Counselors (AACC), the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), as well as North American Association of Christians in Social Work (NACSW), the International Consortium of Social Developers (ICSD), International Federation of Social Workers (IFSW), </span></span><span style="font-family:times new roman,times,serif; font-size:12px">and Phi Alpha, the national Social Work Honor Society. I have served on various task forces including a task force appointment from the CSWE to develop a curricular guide for a social work specialization in substance use treatment. In 2013, I received the honor of being named Social Work Today magazine’s Top Ten Deserving and Dedicated Social Workers. I received the 2008 Public Service Award for Distinguished Citizenship, and in 2013, I received the honored appointment of Kentucky Colonel.  Additionally, I am an ordained reverend. On the King University campus, I serve as the chair of the Social Work Program, chair of the Social Work Advisory Board, faculty advisor for the Social Work Action Group and the King University chapter of the Phi Alpha National Social Work Honor Society, Chi Omega. I serve on the Committee for Excellence in Teaching and Learning (CETL) and the Green committee.  I am the faculty representative for the King University Acrobatics and Tumbling team.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:12px"><span style="font-family:times new roman,times,serif">In our Program's pursuit to produce trauma-informed social workers, one takeaway I want my students to gain from their academic experience at King is that the learning does not stop with a degree in hand. The educational process ignites the fires of knowledge-seeking, converting us into lifelong learners – ever evolving with a desire to dig deeper and ask why, not simply accepting what is, but to challenge the status quo. It is how we derive meaning from those experiences and grow, while honoring God in thoughts and actions. My great hope is that my students to shift their perspectives dramatically from a mentality of "serve us" to "service" and that they will exemplify that in every aspect of their daily lives. </span></span></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-size:12px"><span style="font-family:times new roman,times,serif"><em>Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow. ~Isaiah 1:17</em></span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:12px"><span style="font-family:times new roman,times,serif"><em>                                      ...I believe Isaiah was a Social Worker </em></span></span></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-size:12px"><span style="font-family:times new roman,times,serif"><strong>SOCIAL WORK AND RELATED COURSES TAUGHT:</strong></span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:12px"><span style="font-family:times new roman,times,serif">Human Behavior and the Social Environment: Life Course Perspective</span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:12px"><span style="font-family:times new roman,times,serif">Human Behavior and the Social Environment: Person in Environment Perspective</span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:12px"><span style="font-family:times new roman,times,serif">Contemporary Issues in Social Work</span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:12px"><span style="font-family:times new roman,times,serif">Human Diversity and Ethical Issues in Social Work</span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:12px"><span style="font-family:times new roman,times,serif">Social Work Practice I: Generalist Practice</span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:12px"><span style="font-family:times new roman,times,serif">Social Work Practice II: Family and Group Practice</span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:12px"><span style="font-family:times new roman,times,serif">Social Work Practice III: Community and Organizations Practice</span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:12px"><span style="font-family:times new roman,times,serif">Social Work Practice IV: Integrative Practice</span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:12px"><span style="font-family:times new roman,times,serif">Social Work Research</span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:12px"><span style="font-family:times new roman,times,serif">Social Work Honors Seminar</span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:12px"><span style="font-family:times new roman,times,serif">Social Welfare Policy</span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:12px"><span style="font-family:times new roman,times,serif">Historical Foundations and Contemporary Issues in Social Work</span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:12px"><span style="font-family:times new roman,times,serif">Cultural Diversity in America</span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:12px"><span style="font-family:times new roman,times,serif">Writing for Social Workers</span></span></p> <p> </p> Helbert

College of Arts and Sciences glhelt@king.edu Lynn 211a Bristol Hall 423-652-4890 Gail Helt Gail Helt <p>I came to King in 2014 after nearly a dozen years at the Central Intelligence Agency, where I worked on issues related to East Asian security, politics, and governance.  I had the privilege of traveling the world, and writing for and briefing the senior-most policymakers in the US Government. The opportunities I was given were amazing, and I appreciated every one -- but in reality I always wanted to teach, and I was never a city girl, so I was thrilled to have the opportunity to move to northeastern TN and teach at King. </p> <p>I was recruited by the CIA out of a PhD program at the University of Arizona, where I was studying political science/international relations, with an emphasis on China.  I have a M.A. in political science  from Iowa State University, and a B.S in political science from the University of Nebraska at Kearney. </p> <p>I am the Coordinator of the Security and Intelligence Studies Program here at King, and also serve as the Director of the King Institute of Security and Intelligence Studies.  I am also the faculty adviser for KSI--a great  group of students interested in global events and security and intelligence-related issues. I teach classes in analysis, which are intended not only to teach higher level critical thinking skills that government agencies expect prospective employees to possess, but also to prepare students to succeed in graduate school. I also teach classes in intelligence ethics, counter-terrorism, and I will be teaching a new class in Chinese history and politics in the Spring 2016 semester.</p> <p>My research interests center around democratization and liberalization, human rights (I know, shocking for a former CIA officer!), and political stability.  I also have a strong interest in Chinese history and politics, particularly how Western influence, and particularly Western religion, has impacted the development of China's politics. In my spare time I enjoy hiking, kayaking, and spending time with friends.</p> "Gail" "Gail" Helt

Holloway, Kimberley "Kim"

Hopkins, Julie

Hudson, Donald "Don Michael"

College of Arts and Sciences dmhudson@king.edu Michael Tadlock/Wallace 207 423.652.4154 Donald Hudson Donald Hudson <p><span style="font-size:14px"><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif">Don Michael Hudson is a faculty member in the King College of Arts and Sciences where he is also the Chair of the <a href="http://www.kingpandr.com/">Philosophy and Religion department</a>. He specializes in the historical section (Former Prophets) of the Old Testament, and in particular, he is dedicated to understanding and reading the book of Judges in light of new Syro-Palestinian archaeological evidence in tandem with modern theory and methods (<a href="https://king.academia.edu/DonMichaelHudson">Academia.edu</a>). Over the last ten years he has studied Iron Age 1 and 2 in Israel, Jordan, and Turkey. In Israel, he has directed King’s participation in the <a href="http://azekah.org/">Tel Azekah excavation</a> led by Tel Aviv University and Manfred Oeming of Heidelberg University. Each summer he leads a team of undergraduate students to Palestine in pursuit of epistemological humility, excellence in scholarship, and nuanced thinking in regards to religion and geo-politics.</span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px"><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif">As a biblical scholar and a student of the New Hermeneutic, Don's insistent goal has been to understand the development and function of the religious impulse in general, but more specifically, the religion of ancient “Israel.” In this vein he is currently completing a book entitled <em>When Time Stumbled: Identity and Disintegration in Judges</em> which profiles the most recent findings and artifacts from Syro-Palestinian archaeology in the Southern Levant and how these findings illuminate the book of Judges.  Though Judges is most definitely a post-exilic, Judahite work we can view some of the earliest religious impulses of the historic Israel community, and we can trace the evolution and development of this particular religion through Iron 1 and 2 and into the Persian period.</span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px"><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif">For three decades now Don has studied and emphasized the need for a fresh approach to reading and understanding the Christian Scriptures especially as we move into the 21<sup>st</sup> century. Global, modern Christianity suffers the stigma of anti-science and anti-reason (rightly deserved), but more importantly, it also faces the stark reality of irrelevance in an increasingly complex world. Can we read the Christian Scriptures in a way that addresses the human condition in a relevant, helpful manner? Can we answer the question, “So What?” in meaningful, intelligent ways? What do these texts and narratives have to say to people in the modern age?</span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px"><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif">With these issues and questions in mind, he co-founded the <a href="http://theseattleschool.edu/">Seattle School of Theology and Psychology</a> in 1996. He crafted the original vision of the school, hired faculty and staff, recruited students, raised funds, and designed the curriculum for the MA in Theology and the MDiv. He and his team developed all the courses in an attempt to redesign graduate studies for the 21<sup>st</sup> century. The Seattle School continues to thrive with over 200 graduate students annually. After joining the Philosophy and Religion department at Appalachian State, Dr. Hudson developed innovative pedagogies to engage college students with the pressing issues related to religion in the modern age. At King he has developed an innovative class titled <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Foundations-Christian-Thought-Practice-Michael/dp/0615529135/ref=sr_1_6_twi_spi_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1450862687&sr=8-6&keywords=foundations+of+christian+thought+an+practice"><em>Foundations of Christian Thought and Practice</em></a>. As a central component to a liberal arts education it is important for students to understand and articulate the Judeo-Christian religion in the modern age. This class has been popular with students and has garnered national attention. This course is not only core to King University but also central to his teaching philosophy in regards to the relevance and limitations of religion. Each student must reflect critically upon his or her worldview, understand what an academic study of religion entails with a particular emphasis on determining the difference between moderate and militant religious expressions. As a final project, each student must produce an articulate, objective, informed presentation on the Judeo-Christian worldview as a foundation for global civilization. </span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px"><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif">He has also served as visiting professor at universities in Perth; Australia (1999), Vienna, Austria (1997); Kiev, Ukraine (1998, 1999); Monterrey, Mexico (2002); St. Petersburg, Russia (1998); Manila, Philippines (1994); London; England (1991); and Beijing, China (1999, 2000). Dr. Hudson has advised approximately 30 undergraduate and graduate students who have presented research at regional, national, and international conferences.</span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px"><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif">As chair of the Philosophy and Religion, Dr. Hudson has been actively promoting undergraduate research and scholarly activities in the College of Arts and Sciences. Dr. Hudson also promotes education in his community by speaking regularly at churches, local high schools, community colleges, student organizations, and with local news media about religious violence and extremism and Iron Age archaeology in Israel. Dr. Hudson also serves on the governing board of the <a href="http://www.king.edu/academics/faithandculture.aspx"><em>King Institute of Faith and Culture</em></a>. The King Institute is dedicated to conversation on the issues of faith and culture. In this capacity he guides the internationally known lecture series in major decisions and serves as speaker and essayist.</span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px"><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif">Don has authored, co-authored, or edited five books and written over 50 essays and articles in journals such as <em>Imagiato et Ratio</em>, <em>Dictionary of Biblical Imagery</em>, <em>Mars Hill Review</em>, <em>Journal for the Study of the Old Testament</em>, <em>Inklings</em>, <em>The Everyday Study Bible</em>, <em>Sojourners</em>, and <em>Zeitschrift fur die alttestamentliche Wissenschaft</em>. He also founded and co-directed the <em><a href="http://www.marshillreview.com/">Mars Hill Review</a></em> where he served as concept editor for nine years.  He has given more than 300 research and public scholarship presentations in 47 states and 11 countries. He has also been a consultant with international organizations managing refugee populations in Germany, Austria, and Turkey.</span></span></p> <p><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size:14px">For more information:</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px"><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif">donmichaelhudson.com</span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px"><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif">https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCU-lY1qS1R1bdGXQmnGSR6g</span></span></p> "Don Michael" "Don Michael" Hudson

Jones III, Herbert "Lee"

Kauffman, Christopher "Chris"

College of Arts and Sciences ekingsley@king.edu Snider Honors House 423-652-4828 Erin Kingsley Erin Kingsley <p>One of my life’s key moments was the moment I first visited King University and met all the kind, soulful people there. Even though I hail from so very far away (born and raised in southern Idaho, attended university in Oregon, then lived in Colorado for over a decade), I found a unique and God-given kinship with the landscape, university, and people at King. Until King came into my life, I had never even been to Tennessee! Until Dale Brown (former English professor at King) came into my life, I had never even heard of Frederick Buechner! Thank God for his miracles, great and small. King University, Frederick Buechner, Dale Brown, Craig McDonald = large miracles in my life.</p> <p>Books have always been my first and best friends. In my case, doing what I love and doing what I’m good at just happened to coalesce, and God has been so good in opening doors so I could always continue the next leg of my journey, both with Him and with literature. While I function quite well as a generalist (which means I love all forms of literature), my specialty is modernism, 20th century British and American literature, and women writers (chiefly Virginia Woolf). From the first time I stepped into the role of instructor in an undergraduate classroom, I was hooked. That day, I was amazed and humbled to find what I believe to be my vocational life calling: to engage the young and old alike in discussions about the most beautiful, compelling, enriching, and difficult words that have ever been written, and to mentor and uplift each other.</p> <p>For the past ten years, I have taught both online and face-to-face courses at the University of Colorado at Boulder, then here at King University since Fall 2015. I have been married for 13 years to the best man currently in existence, Matthew, and we share a joy-suffused home (where nightly dance parties occur) with our two kids, Sylvia and Lucas. I love to read, watch movies, eat delicious food, travel, hang out in libraries and coffee shops, sleep, and take bubble baths. I look forward to digging deep with you all, exploring my new city and state, learning and rejoicing and “doing life” together.</p> Kingsley

Knight, Margaret

School of Health and Professional Sciences maknight@king.edu Ann Knoxville 865-769-3106 Margaret Knight Margaret Knight <p>Through teaching and mentorship, I try to plant as many seeds as possible each day.  But, even before I entered academia, I worked to train people in medical record coding and compliance on an informal basis and came to see such education as an opportunity for people to improve their lives.  That realization was formalized with an adjunct position at Delgado Community College's Health Information Management program in 1998.  While most of my career has been spent working in healthcare, I re-entered academia in 2010 at the University of Tennessee Department of Public Health in their Master's program.  I am grateful to continue my academic career at King University whose mission of teaching adults aligns well with my own.</p> <p>While in New Orleans, I attended the Tulane School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine and earned a Master's in Public Health in 1998.  In 2004, I received a fellowship to attend the University of Texas at Dallas and earned a Master's of Science in Applied Sociology and a Ph.D. in Public Affairs.</p> <p>I am beginning my work with students in the Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration program based at the Knoxville campus.  I am starting with teaching Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Healthcare Policy, and Population Health.  I look for to the start of this work.</p> <p>My research interests include:</p> <ul> <li>Health systems research including the effect of nonclinical decisions on medical outcomes.</li> <li>Healthcare disparities created by policy decisions and societal constraints.</li> <li>The effects of state and federal policy decisions on the accessibility of primary care.</li> <li>The effects of protocol-based medical education on the critical thinking skills of clinicians.</li> </ul> <p>My service interests include working to improve the lives of the people in our community and am currently seeking volunteer opportunities that will allow me to assist with that goal.  </p> "Margaret" "Margaret" Knight

Knowles, Amy

Kreiss, Daniel "Dan"

Krizanac-Bengez, Ljiljana "Lily"

School of Health and Professional Sciences lkrizanacbengez@king.edu Nashville 615-614-2398 Ljiljana Krizanac-Bengez Ljiljana Krizanac-Bengez <p><em>"Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity."</em> <em>(</em>Titus 2:7)</p> <p>I hold MD PhD degree from the School of Medicine, University of Zagreb. I believe that the greatest learning experiences come from working with different group of people as to achieve academic, professional, and spiritual growth.  I have been involved in biomedical, translational, and clinical medical science (research), and completed post-doctoral fellowships at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA (1993-1996) and Cleveland Clinic (1999-2002).</p> <p>Between 1999 and 2011, I was employed at the Cleveland Clinic; first as a post-doctoral fellow at the Cerebrovascular Research Center, Neurosurgery, and upon receiving an AHA grant was promoted to project staff (Research Assistant Professor), working in both bio-medical and translational medical research & clinical trials.</p> <p>Prior to joining King faculty team in 2014, I have served as Associate Professor and Chair of Health Services Administration Program at Chancellor University, Cleveland, OH. While there, I was instrumental in creating a program in Health Informatics & Information Management (HIIM) at the baccalaureate degree.</p> <p>As of January 2014, I serve as Lead Faculty and Program Coordinator for Health Informatics at King University. I have been using my skill set to serve our new program and our students.</p> <p>What are my interests? Professionally, I am passionate about Medical science & research; Education; Program development; Leadership. In my private life, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I love art and music. I have a wonderful family who has been supportive of my work and education. In return, I enjoy serving and leading others to achieve their full potential.</p> <p>With self-knowledge comes a greater awareness of who we are, what our true goals in life are, and what direction we want to set for our life.  This, in a nutshell, is the gift of maturity. I see myself as a service-oriented professional who thrives on socially meaningful work.</p> <p><em>"There are two avenues from the little passions and the drear calamities of earth; both lead to the heaven and away from hell—Art and Science. But art is more godlike than science; science discovers, art creates."</em> — Earl Edward George Bulwer-Lytton</p> <p><em>"For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."</em> (Mathew 6:21)</p> "Lily" "Lily" Krizanac-Bengez

Krug, Emily

Landis, Scott

Lee, George "Aubrey"

Liendo, Martha

Linderman, William "Bill"

Little, Charles

Littleton, Robert "Rob"

Other ralittle@king.edu Allen Maclellan Hall #12 423-652-4740 Robert Littleton Robert Littleton <p>Dr. Rob Littleton is the Vice President for Student Affairs. He came to King University in 2005. Littleton also serves as an instructor in the Leadership Minor and the Senior Capstone course, Christian Faith and Social Responsibility. Prior to his arrival at King, he served as Dean of Students and various other administrative positions for 15 years at Carson-Newman University and as Adjunct Assistant Professor in the College of Education at The University of Tennessee for three years.</p> <p>As Vice President for Student Affairs, Littleton oversees a wide range of programs and services at King including: Orientation, First Year Programs (KING 1000 and 2000), Community Outreach, Residence Life and Housing, Student Conduct, Student Organizations, Student Activities (i.e. SLACK), SLACK Sports, Security, Counseling Center, Student Success, Learning and Disability Services, and the Regional Student Affairs Office in Knoxville.</p> <p>Along with serving on the President’s Executive Cabinet, Littleton has also served in other campus roles. From 2007 to 2011, he chaired the University’s transition committee, which coordinated the membership process to move from the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) into the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II. Littleton is currently serving as Co-Chair, for the 2018 King University Compliance Certification Process. This process is with King’s accrediting body – The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Littleton has also served on various accreditation committees for SACSCOC.</p> <p>Rob and his wife of 21 years, Cheryl, live in Bristol. Cheryl is an elementary school teacher at Holston View Elementary. Rob and Cheryl are blessed to have Erin Elizabeth as their daughter. Erin is a 3rd grader at Holston View. The Littletons attend Euclid Avenue Baptist Church. </p> "Rob" "Rob" Littleton

Love, Logan

Love, Sherry "Sherry Love"

Macione, Beatriz

College of Arts and Sciences bhmacion@king.edu Huarte Bristol Hall 203 423.652.4896 Beatriz Macione Beatriz Macione <p>I am originally from Pamplona, Spain, where I lived until I moved to the United States. I always look forward to going home each summer to spend time with my family.</p> <p>I began my career with King University (then King College) in 1991 as an Assistant Professor of Spanish for the Modern Languages Department, where I remained until 2000. I returned as an Associate Professor of Spanish for the Languages and Literatures Department in 2011, and I currently serve as Chair of the Department, as well as Associate Dean for the College of Arts & Sciences.</p> <p>My focus as a professor is to broaden my student’s perception of the world by teaching them the value of diversity in people, cultures, and languages. Participation in King’s Study-Abroad Program gives students in the Languages and Literatures Department the opportunity to enrich their lives by visiting other countries.  In addition, my department encourages students to leave the comfort zone of the classroom through community service engagement, which offers an opportunity to share their knowledge of a foreign language and the culture it represents.</p> <p>As Chair, I have organized and implemented successful faculty and community workshops for foreign language teachers in the region. We share information, exchange ideas, and discuss new ways to improve teaching through different methodologies and the implementation of technology in the classroom.</p> <p>During my career, I have pursued and been awarded numerous fellowships and grants with multiple agencies – The Appalachian Center for Community Faculty Development Grant, Emory & Henry College, which enabled me to incorporate service-learning into my Spanish classes; The Mednick Fellowship for Virginia Foundation of Independent Colleges, which dealt with connecting Spanish language and culture; Curriculum Development Grant at Emory & Henry College, Virginia; Faculty Scholar Lecture Series at King University; The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation Trust through the Appalachian College Association Fellowship; and the Graduate Council Research Fellowship at the University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa.</p> Macione

Maine, Cathy

Mann, Amy

McRae, Sheri

Mears, Gregory

Merkison, Miranda

Mongold, Jennifer

School of Health and Professional Sciences jlmongold@king.edu L. Sells Hall 207 423-652-6794 Jennifer Mongold Jennifer Mongold <p><em>Why did that person do that?  </em>This is a question I have found myself asking at many different points in my life.  Do we ever really know a person's true intentions?  How could she do that to someone she is supposed to care about?  This natural curiosity into human nature led me to the study of psychology and criminal justice.</p> <p>During my graduate training, I had excellent opportunities to study psychology and the criminal justice system in different settings.   The one that interested me most was working with inmates at a local detention center.  I worked with people suffering with drug withdrawals, depression, and disorders as chronic and serious as schizophrenia to issues as common as claustrophobia.</p> <p>After graduate school, I kept my interest in both psychology and criminal justice alive in my work as a restorative justice mediator providing these services to area juvenile courts.  Restorative justice is an alternative to our current more punitive practices that seeks to repair the harm done when a crime is committed instead of only punishing the offender.  It gives the victim a voice in the process while also holding the offender accountable for his or her actions.  During my years as an RJ mediator, I also taught classes on a part-time basis and happily joined King full time in 2011.</p> <p>At King University, I am the Program Director of the Criminal Justice Program.  Here, I love working with both the traditional and GPS students by helping them find their passion and the place that they need to be.  I teach the courses focused on theory and research as well as the restorative justice-themed course in the CJ curriculum. </p> <p>Currently, I reside in Gray, TN with my sons Grant and Zac.  We love movies and being outside and are very active in our church.</p> Mongold

Morgan, Rhonda

Morrison, Brendia

Neal, Penelope

Nicholson, Susan

College of Arts and Sciences senicholson@king.edu E Chapel 15 423.652.6332 Susan Nicholson Susan Nicholson <p> </p> <p>A native of Charlotte, North Carolina, Dr. Susan Nicholson earned a Bachelor of Music Education and Master of Music Education from Winthrop University and a Doctor of Musical Arts in Multiple Woodwind Performance from the University of Miami (FL).  Dr. Nicholson’s woodwind professors include Phil Thompson, Margaret Donaghue, Gary Keller, Francesca Arnone, and Luciano Magnanini.  She studied conducting with William Malambri and has had post-graduate conducting study with Virginia Allen, Eugene Corporon, Jack Stamp, and Dennis Fisher.</p> <p>In the spring of 2017, Dr. Nicholson was appointed Director of Instrumental Studies at King University in Bristol, Tennessee.  Most recently, Dr. Nicholson was an adjunct professor of music at Winthrop University, woodwind specialist at Fort Mill High School (SC), and the Coordinator of the Carowinds Festival of Music in Charlotte.  Previous appointments include Director of Bands and Music Education Coordinator at Brevard College, Director of Upper School Bands at the Pine Crest School, and Director of the Jazz Band and clarinet and saxophone professor at Rhode Island College.  She has performed with the Rhode Island Philharmonic, Providence Ballet, Rhode Island Civic Chorale and Orchestra, Asheville Symphony, Asheville Lyric Opera, Hendersonville Symphony, Charlotte Repertory Orchestra, and other performing organizations throughout the Southeast and New England areas.  Currently, Susan performs with the Tri-Cities Jazz Orchestra based out of Kingsport.</p> <p>Dr. Nicholson was awarded the Distinguished Professor of Fine Arts award at Brevard College in 2006 and 2007 for exceptional teaching in the arts.  She was selected as the Rock Hill Chamber of Commerce’s Teacher of the Year (1996) and Teacher of the Year at St. Anne School (1996).  Her professional affiliations include membership in Pi Kappa Lambda (Winthrop University and University of Miami), the College Band Directors National Association, National Association for Music Education, Delta Omicron, and Tau Beta Sigma (honorary member).</p> Nicholson

O'Neil, Jennifer

Ong, Han Chuan

College of Arts and Sciences leong@king.edu E. White Hall 211 423-652-4805 Laura Ong Laura Ong <p>I always knew <em>that</em> I wanted to teach, even before I knew <em>what</em> I wanted to teach.  And now, after several years of academic and geographical roaming, I am thrilled to be back home in the mountains, teaching at King University.  I grew up in Greene County, Tennessee as a child of a music teacher and a tobacco breeder.  Since many of my extended family farmed tobacco, my initial interest in biology stemmed from a desire to boost disease resistance in crop plants, to help improve yields and incomes in farming communities.  However, once I started to learn the intricate details of the interactions between pathogens and their hosts, I began to appreciate all types of disease-causing microbes for their own sakes.  I love to learn about, and teach about, anything related to microbes and/or disease.</p> <p>During my graduate work, I studied plant defense mechanisms at the cellular and molecular level.  My dissertation research focused on protein-level interactions between the bacterium <em>Pseudomonas syringae</em> and two of its plant hosts, soybean and the model plant Arabidopsis.  My research results indicated that a particular <em>P. syringae</em> virulence protein altered target proteins in soybean and Arabidopsis plants in similar ways, suggesting that both plants use related mechanisms to combat a single bacterial disease.  This research gives me hope that plant disease resistance research in Arabidopsis will translate fairly quickly and easily to the improvement of crop plants.</p> <p>So far, the courses I have taught at King University are Principles of Biology, Microbiology and Immunology (for non-Biology majors), Microbiology (for Biology majors), Human Anatomy and Physiology 2, Cell Biology, Plant Biology, Interdepartmental Science Seminar, and an honors seminar in Modern Human Reproduction.  While I originally specialized in plants and microbiology, I really enjoy teaching human anatomy and physiology as well, because everyone has a body, and everyone should know how their body works! </p> <p>I am a mom to three handsome, noisy, messy, and absolutely perfect sons, and much of my time away from King is spent taking care of them.  In my remaining spare time, I love to sing, garden and read fiction, and my all-time favorite author is Alexander McCall Smith.  If I myself were a fictional character, I would probably be Hermione Granger or a hobbit.  I also love watching collegiate wrestling and traveling with my husband.</p> Ong

Osborn, Kyle

School of Health and Professional Sciences mroverbay@king.edu R. Sells Hall 204 423-652-6461 Mark Overbay Mark Overbay <p>In Latin, the word “<em>doctor</em>” means “<em>teacher</em>”. I am a medical doctor - a Family Physician. For more than 20 years of my life, I was involved in the day-to-day care of patients of all ages. I have delivered babies, cared for those with terminal illnesses and shared life stories with thousands of people between those two extremes.  I have laughed and cried, rejoiced and mourned, taught and learned from them all. Like a well-worn, threadbare quilt, I carry a small piece of them in the fabric of who I am. I have had a very privileged and rare glimpse into the raw and intimate truths of pain, suffering, strength, courage, and the wide spectrum of the human condition. Over those years, I came to realize that that of all the tragedies that often accompany us when we find ourselves in need of advanced medical care, the greatest may be <em>fear</em>…..the fear of the unknown….the fear that we have lost control of our lives ….the fear of death. This fear isn’t always on the surface. It’s not always so easy to identify. We often are resistant to acknowledge its very existence. There is, however, an antidote to this fear. Great power comes from knowledge and compassion…the power to break the grip of fear. More than any other remedy, helping my patients to understand more about their own condition became my most helpful therapy to ease their suffering.  Interestingly (at least to me), I found that by educating my patients about their health and wellness issues that I was being enriched by it. The experience was transforming for both me and the patients I served.</p> <p> </p> <p>The realities of a physician life, however, left precious little time to devote the nurturing of my own family, so after approximately 20 years in practice, I retired. Instead of worrying what came next, I dedicated myself to being the best husband, father, brother and son I could be. I turned over the responsibility for determining where I would land following retirement to God. As it turned out, I didn’t have to wait long.</p> <p> </p> <p>Soon after retiring from medicine, the Lord led me to King. What a wonderful place! King’s Core Values of Christian faith, scholarship, service, and career, and Mission <em>to prepare students to excel as thoughtful, resourceful, and responsible citizens with a passion for serving God, the Church and the world </em>speaks deeply to me. In my journey with King, I have contributed as the university has needed me and currently serve as the Dean of the School of Health and Professional Sciences. I am blessed to serve a strong and dedicated faculty and have such a wonderful and caring King family. My time here has continually reinforced the truths learned in clinical practice......knowledge is powerful and, with Christ, transformational.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> Overbay

Pate, Mark

Paulson, Keri-Lynn

King Libraries kpaulson@king.edu E.W. King Library, Room 211 423.652.4897 Keri-Lynn Paulson Keri-Lynn Paulson <p>It is significant that John calls Jesus “the Word” in his gospel (John 1:1,14).  Jesus is the ultimate Source of truth and reality. He, as the Word, is the archetype of meaning found in language, communication, information. All of scripture indicates that words have value. They signify—point to—reality. Scripture admonishes us, among other things, to “rightly handle the Word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15) and to “be holy in all you do” (1 Peter 1:15). As Christian educators, our responsibility is to teach students to correctly employ language, to handle information with integrity (for example, protecting copyright and avoiding plagiarism), and to be excellent in our academic pursuits. As a Christian librarian, teaching students to be <em>information literate</em>—one of our profession’s main objectives—entails helping them to do due diligence in their research, to properly use others’ works, and to think critically about the information they receive. It is my job to help students make judgments about the quality and correctness of the sources they unearth. As an educator and a believer, it is also a part of my job to encourage them to not give up their pursuit when they don’t initially find pertinent sources. The Apostle Paul said “<em>whatever</em> you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men” (Colossians 3:23, emphasis mine); this certainly applies to conducting oneself in an academic environment. I believe the Lord is glorified when we do our work with integrity and excellence.</p> <p>My graduate education took place at the School of Information Sciences (now the College of Communication and Information) at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. Although the philosophical underpinnings of Information Science have broad applications, I chose coursework specifically designed to prepare students for a career in academic libraries. My first professional position was as a Reference and Instructional Librarian at The George Washington University in Washington, D.C. My second position brought me back to my alma mater, Bryan College, where I stayed for 10 years, first as the Outreach Librarian and then as the Quality Enhancement Plan Coordinator, a position tied to the accreditation/ reaffirmation process. I joined the King University Libraries team as Electronic Resources Librarian in February 2015. </p> <p>In addition to information science as it relates to the world of higher education, I am also interested in First Year Experience theories and practice and in promoting and supporting undergraduate research. </p> "Keri-Lynn" "Keri-Lynn" Paulson

Payne, Terry

Peltier, Matthew "Matt"

Pickard, Simeon

Pierce, Desmond

Pitts, George

Polk, Xanshunta "Xan "

School of Business and Economics xlpolk@king.edu LaTalshe' The Village at Hardin Valley Xanshunta Polk Xanshunta Polk <p>Dr. Xanshunta L. Polk is an Assistant Professor of Business at King University’s Knoxville campus. She is originally from Jackson, MS, and has lived in Nashville, TN, Cumberland Gap, TN, and Knoxville, TN. Dr. Polk is an alumna of Jackson State University, Tennessee State University, and Argosy University. She holds a BBA in Marketing, MPA in Public Administration, DBA in Marketing, and an Advanced Professional Graduate Certificate in Management.</p> <p>Teaching is a fundamental component of Dr. Polk’s involvement in marketing society. She is very proud to create and share knowledge in a classroom setting. Students often find it difficult to connect marketing concepts with societal events. Many students are oblivious of marketing concepts and how they shape the business world. This lack of knowledge will impair research and marketing practices in the future. Dr. Polk’s teaching philosophy is based on her enthusiasm to reduce the gap in marketing knowledge and motivate students to understand and value marketing and its importance in the business world. Her teaching philosophy allows students to grasp the significance of marketing in their everyday lives and increase their enjoyment of the program of study.</p> <p>Throughout her career, Dr. Polk has been interested in different aspects of Marketing and Management, especially consumer behavior, marketing management, innovation, and corporate social responsibility. She has analyzed the effects of persuasive communication, as well as, the advantages of remaining innovative through marketing strategies. She has published papers in peer-reviewed academic journals.</p> <p>Dr. Polk has undertaken a variety of administrative duties outside of academia, including serving as Senior Representative for New Accounts within the Wealth Management division of UBS Financial Services, Inc. Additionally; Dr. Polk is co-founder of an online magazine. Dr. Polk also volunteers her time as a Literacy Coach for the Nashville Adult Literacy Council.</p> "Xan " "Xan " Polk

Price, Jessica

Roberts, Andy "Matt"

Academic Affairs mroberts@king.edu Matthew King Building 16A 423.652.4780 Andy Roberts Andy Roberts <p>Dr. Matthew Roberts is Vice President for Academic Affairs and the Academic Dean for King University. Dr. Roberts earned his Bachelor of Arts from East Tennessee State University in English and Foreign Languages, his Master of Arts in Applied English Linguistics from the University of Houston, and his Doctor of Education from Appalachian State University with cognates in language and literacy acquisition.</p> <p>Roberts’ teaching career in literature, language, and education has focused on diverse learners and linguistic minority groups in Texas, North Carolina, and Tennessee.  Prior to King, Roberts’ teaching experience includes appointments at Rice University (Houston, TX), University of Houston, Houston Independent School District, Paideia Academy (Cary, NC), and Appalachian State University (Boone, NC).</p> <p>In 2007, Roberts was recipient of the prestigious Cratis D. Williams Fellowship for his contributions to rural education in North Carolina. Roberts was the co-founder and editor of the Appalachian Family Storytelling Project, a family literacy initiative that spanned five counties in western North Carolina; this project worked to connect pre-service teachers at Appalachian State with students and families in documenting the region’s oral history.</p> <p>Dr. Roberts came to King in 2008 as a faculty member in the School of Education where he continues to teach courses in literacy development and educational psychology.  In 2010, Roberts was named King’s first Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP) Director. The QEP is part of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges’ (SACSCOC) requirement for institutions to identify a focus and direction where signature curricular improvement would be positively impactful. Roberts’ support through QEP initiatives assisted peer mentor-based programs to flourish and define distinct learning communities visible in King’s undergraduate core curriculum classes, as well as meeting King’s commitment to improving oral and written communication as the institution’s QEP topic. In 2014, King University’s QEP Impact Report successfully received no referrals in a review by the Committee on Fifth-Year Interim Reports.  In 2012, Roberts was named Dean of Academic Affairs, and in 2013 he was named Chief Academic Officer for the University.</p> <p>Several achievements and improvements have occurred for King University under Roberts’ leadership. King was approved as a SACSCOC Level V institution with its first doctoral degree, the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in 2014. For the institution’s interim accreditation report, King secured the successful completion of SACSCOC on-site committee reviews of instructional locations in Knoxville, TN, and Big Stone Gap, VA with no referrals. Currently, King University continues the investment and development of over 30 articulation agreements and partnerships with community colleges and institutions throughout Tennessee and Virginia. Most importantly, faculty development opportunities have grown to support King’s commitment to the integration of faith and learning as inscribed in the institution’s motto <em>Ecclesiae et Litteris</em> (For the Church and Learning).</p> <p> </p> <p>Roberts’ current research interests include social cognitive theory and self-efficacy as they relate to instructor performance and demands in a quickly changing higher educational landscape.  He has published and presented papers on teacher efficacy and linguistic/social distance theory. Roberts’ scholarship is both broad and focused: He has studied the work of Russian psychologist, Lev Vygotsky, under renowned scholar Michael Cole (UC Davis), and playwriting under Edward Albee at the University of Houston.</p> <p>Roberts serves as the Chair of the Administrative Council at Mountain View United Methodist Church in Kingsport, TN where he is also a lead musician in the praise band. Roberts and his wife, Jessie, have two daughters, Lucy and Emma, and one son, Jack. They enjoy hiking and singing loudly in the car.</p> "Matt" "Matt" Roberts

Robertson, Andrea "Andrea Robertson"

Robinson, David

Rudd, Joshua "Josh"

Sanders, Glenn

Sanders, Sandra "Sandy"

Sellstrom, Teresa

Shaw, Karen

Shim, Changsub

Simoson, Andrew

College of Arts and Sciences ajsimoso@king.edu James White Hall 115 423-652-4840 Andrew Simoson Andrew Simoson <p>One of my past-times is drawing, and some of my sketches have appeared in mathematics journals over the years. As I figure out how to incorporate images on this site, I will post a few---stay tuned if you're curious.</p> <p> </p> <p>From 1975--79, I studied mathematics as a graduate assistant---usually teaching two sections of calculus to about 30 students each---at the University of Wyoming and Syracuse University (I accompanied my dissertation advisor there during his sabbatical year from Wyoming).  In Laramie, Wyoming, I signed up for skiing one semester---and each Wednesday after math classes, I skied  the Big Snowy Mountains fifty miles west of the campus, an enjoyable, rare break from studies. And in Syracuse, I met my wife to be, whereafter we accepted a position at King, starting in 1980.</p> <p>Over the years since then, I have had two sabbatical years, 1990--91 and 1997--98, the first to Botswana and the second to Tanzania, where I taught at the University of Botswana in Gaborone and at the University of Dar es Salaam, respectively.  In Botswana---which is the Kalihari Desert---we bought a used LandRover, and drove all over southern Africa during school holidays together with my wife and our two sons.  As you might expect, we broke down often far from home and help. In Tanzania, our family hiked up Kilimanjaro on a 5 day expedition over Christmas.</p> <p>Both of our sons graduated from King. The older one majored in physics and played intercollegiate soccer---being the King keeper for four years;  afterwards he earned a master's degree in mechanical engineering and is now an engineer for GE in Pennsylvania working on emissions standards/compliance on diesel train engines.  My younger son majored in computer science and voice, and went on to earn a pair of master's degrees, one in opera performance and the other in software design; he is currently a software engineer involved with voice recognition in conjunction with medical record keeping---and still has once a week voice lessons.  This summer (2015), we were blessed with a first grandchild!</p> <p>Each semester at King, I usually teach three or four courses and try to engage at least one student in independent research with me, which often leads to a joint publication in a mathematics journal with the student as well as a student poster presentation at a convenient mathematics conference.  Our most recent student collaboration success was a 2014 article in a math journal on an old African board game called Mancala and how the endgame can be interpreted as a nim-like game---a classic well-studied mathematical game. The student who worked with me this past year (2015) attended a summer mathematical institute in Budapest, and our paper is currently being refereed for publication.</p> "Andrew" "Andrew" Simoson

Slaughter, Christopher

College of Arts and Sciences crslaughter@king.edu R. WA202 423-652-4800 Christopher Slaughter Christopher Slaughter <p>Following my graduate work, I moved from Memphis, Tennessee to Westfield, Massachusetts where I worked for over a decade as a theatre and speech educator at Westfield University. I returned to the Tri-Cities area in 2007, and have since been teaching scenic design, lighting design, sound design, stagecraft, theatre management, radio theatre performance, and theatre history for the Theatre Department at King University. I also serve as the artistic director for Bristol's Twin City Radio Theatre.</p> <p>I am a Bristol native and have directed, designed and built scenery, designed and run lights and sound, and performed as an actor and musician for a number of regional arts organizations and venues, including The Bristol Ballet, Virginia Intermont College, The Paramount Center for the Arts, and Theatre Bristol. I have also worked as a designer and/or technician-scenic artist for The Playhouse on the Square (Memphis, Tennessee), Theatre Memphis, Opera Memphis, The Sword of Peace (Snow Camp, North Carolina), The Greenbrier Valley Theatre (Lewisburg, West Virginia), The Miniature Theatre of Chester (Chester, Massachusetts) and other professional and amateur theatres and playhouses on the East Coast.</p> <p>While studying at the University of Memphis, I was awarded three years in a row (1993-1995) a Memphis Arts Council award for "excellence in scenic design" for <em>For Our Children</em>, <em>Vinegar Tom</em>, <em>Six Degrees of Separation</em>, and <em>Something's Afoot</em>.</p> <p>I am constantly pursuing new techniques and technologies in stagecraft, lighting and sound that can be integrated into my design work and classrooms. I also have a strong interest in performing objects (puppets, masks, etc.) and their diverse performance applications.</p> <p>Radio Theatre has been a life-long love, and it has been rewarding to be able to bring this nearly forgotten genre to new generations of theatre-goers at King University and in the Tri-Cities community. The Twin City Radio Theatre has recently performed at King's Fine Arts Theatre, Theatre Bristol's ArtSpace, Bristol's Grindhouse, The First Prebyterian Church in Bristol, TN, and annual AARP meetings at The First Baptist Church in Bristol, VA. </p> Slaughter

Slemp, Tracy

Sloan, Alyssa

Story, Brandon

Streetman, William "Craig"

Strickland, Joseph

Sutherland, Jonna

College of Arts and Sciences jfsutherland@king.edu Faith 28 White Hall, Physics 423-652-6796 Jonna Sutherland Jonna Sutherland <p><span style="font-size:12px"><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif">It was the space program that first captured my imagination, inspiring me to explore the scientific world of physics and mathematics. Captivated by the movements of the planets and stars, I embarked upon a journey to gain an understanding of motion, both terrestrial and celestial.</span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:12px"><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif">After earning a B.S. degree in physics and mathematics (double-major) from East Tennessee State University in 1986, where I received the <em>Outstanding Achievement in Physics</em> faculty award, I spent a semester at Vanderbilt University studying astrophysics, working with the telescopes, and teaching astronomy labs.</span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:12px"><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif">In 1987, I transferred to the University of Tennessee’s Physics and Astronomy Department in Knoxville and successfully completed over five years of coursework in the physics doctoral program, while teaching undergraduate physics and optics labs. My research focused primarily on the study of stellar spectral emission lines with a specialization in molecular spectroscopy.</span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:12px"><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif">In 1992, I was hired to work at <em>Oak Ridge National Laboratory</em> on several environmental engineering projects designed to develop management and clean-up strategies for the nation’s nuclear superfund sites. While there, I studied new and emerging technologies that could be utilized for protecting the public health and the surrounding environment, groundwater, and wildlife. Following my four years at ORNL, I accepted a position in the IT department at the University of Tennessee as a senior computer systems administrator, where I networked and maintained the university’s faculty and student computer lab systems for twelve years.</span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:12px"><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif">Desiring to enhance my teaching skills and to learn advanced methods for instruction in higher education, I completed a Master’s degree in Education (M. Ed.) from Emory and Henry College in 2012, where I earned the <em>Excellence in Graduate Educational Research</em> award.</span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:12px"><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif">Since relocating back to the Tri-cities area in 2009, I have had the opportunity to teach physics, mathematics, electronics, and astronomy classes at several colleges and universities throughout the region. Along the way, I have had the opportunity to enhance my skills as a STEM faculty through:</span></span></p> <ul> <li><span style="font-size:12px"><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif">participating in space-related workshops (Wallops Flight Facility and other NASA-related programs),</span></span></li> <li><span style="font-size:12px"><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif">exploring the drone facilities at Virginia Tech,</span></span></li> <li><span style="font-size:12px"><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif">expanding my teaching repertoire to include renewable energy technologies (solar, wind), and</span></span></li> <li><span style="font-size:12px"><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif">continuing my education through additional graduate mathematics classes.</span></span></li> </ul> <p><span style="font-size:12px"><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif">I enjoy sharing my enthusiasm for physics with the students of King University. My goal is to provide a firm foundation for their journey into the STEM fields of study and to inspire them to reach higher for success in their chosen academic pursuits.</span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:12px"><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif">In my spare time, I have spent over 25 years practicing athletic training and conditioning, while studying and teaching various systems of self-defense for which I have received advanced degrees. Throughout the years, I have enjoyed sharing my knowledge of healthy lifestyle practices, athleticism, and empowerment-through-fitness with students of all ages.</span></span></p> Sutherland

Swiney, Wendy

Thomas, Rebecca "Becky"

College of Arts and Sciences wltrayno@king.edu L. Bristol Hall 112 423-652-4309 Wendy Traynor Wendy Traynor <p>I came to King  in 2006 as a temporary replacement for a professor on sabbatical. I ended up falling in love with the campus, the students, and my colleagues, and a spot was opened up for me to stay as a full-time faculty member. As I start my 10th year at King, I continue to be amazed at how much King feels like home. There are challenges , victories, debates, and unifying events here every year and the energy is palpable. I look forward to what's ahead for King.</p> <p>Before coming to King, my family and I lived all over the United States. My father was a career Army officer, and so I grew up moving frequently. We lived on both coasts of the US, the Midwest, and Germany. I met my husband at North Georgia College where I got both my Bachelor's degree and my Master's degree. My husband was also an army office and our first duty station was Alaska where my only son was born. We have since lived in NY, GA, SC and are happy to now be settled down in Bristol, TN.</p> <p>I have taught virtually all levels of Mathematics to include Middle School, High School, adult education, community college, and at the university level. I am a Mathematics Education specialist by both matriculation and experience and that is my area of interest. My research is constant and classroom based to provide the most effective learning experience possible for my students whether they be in a face-to-face classroom or online. I regularly attend and present at conferences about Mathematics Education and remain energized about the subject that way.</p> <p>When I'm not working, I enjoy Fly Fishing in the South Holston River with my husband or visiting my son at his college in SC. I am actively involved with the Women in STEM club and Fly Fishing club on campus and look forward to what's ahead for both of those.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> "Wendy" "Wendy" Traynor

Vance, Christina "Alaska"

College of Arts and Sciences crvance@king.edu R. WA 205 Christina Vance Christina Vance <p>The idea of being a feather blown around by God's breath makes me feel strangely comforted. The trajectory of my life has changed many times and it looks so different now than what I would have imagined ten years ago. That's okay. That's beautiful. I might be floating around, but God's got me. </p> <p>When you're a child you create, imagine and play. Gosh, I even played make-believe as a teenager. In undergrad I took an "Introduction to Theatre" class and was hit with the realization that creation, imagination and play could be a career! I was hooked on the world of theatre. I went to graduate school for acting, but I discovered that the thrill I felt when I stepped on the stage as an actor was amplified when I watched other actors bring to life one of my scripts. Theatre is a passion for me, but playwriting is more than that. And it's more than a calling.  It's... a desperate screaming that can only be relieved with I put fingers to the keyboard. </p> <p>Every day I have opportunities to help students discover their own more-than-passions and find what makes their hearts sing. I’m so fortunate. One thing I love about theatre is the community aspect of it, how so many different varieties of artists come together to create. I think there’s a chance everyone could find some area of this work that excites them. It’s wonderful that we can change as artists and theatre practitioners, we just have to keep floating on that breath. Madeleine L'Engle said “We have to be braver than we think we can be, because God is constantly calling us to be more than we are.” I want to be more than I am, and I'm thankful for students and colleagues at King who help me grow as an artist, a Christian and a human being. </p> <p>In addition to teaching and writing, I enjoy bringing theatre to "found spaces" or unusual venues. I enjoy touring theatre and I've been blessed with opportunities to organize and participate in theatre tours for children and youth. I'm also passionate about new play festivals and bringing theatre from smaller towns (like Bristol) to larger markets. I've been honored to have two of my plays accepted into the highly competitive New York International Fringe Festival and have enjoyed bringing local actors to the Fringe. I've discovered an intense love for theatre for young audiences. I have been thrilled to have some of my TYA scripts published and produced nationally and internationally. </p> <p>Theatre's a huge part of my life, but I'm also a proud mother of two little munchkins and two pups, a horrible gardener, an fantasy fan, a nature lover, an avid goof, and an okayish wife, daughter, sister and friend. </p> "Alaska" "Alaska" Vance

Vance, Thomas "Joel"

Vaughan, Laura "Kelly"

College of Arts and Sciences lkvaughan@king.edu Kelly White Hall 205 423-652-6468 Laura Vaughan Laura Vaughan <p>I grew up on a farm that has been in our family since the 1700's in Holston Valley, right outside of Bristol. I have always been a science nerd and growing up on the farm gave me both a foundation in how nature works, but also an awe in the amazing complexity of our world and a drive to ask 'why?'. I attended Berry College in Rome, GA where I obtained a BS in Biochemistry and Animal Science (I was going to Vet school until I decided that 1) I didnt like cows that much and 2) I enjoyed research). I then went on to Texas A&M to earn a PhD in Biochemistry (because, in my naiveté, it was the broadest field and I had no idea what I wanted to do with my life). I then spent 10 years at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, first as a postdoctoral fellow and then Research Assistant Professor in the Biostatistics Department. During that time I reinvented myself twice- first moving from bench work to Statistical Genetics and then to Bioinformatics- where I think I may finally have found my niche.</p> <p>Although I had built a successful research career, I felt something was missing. I had always known that I wanted to return to my roots, both in terms of returning to the area and teaching at a liberal arts school. As much as I love the challenge of research, I missed the dynamics of the classroom and the interactions with students. Family is an important part of my life, and I could not pass up the opportunity to return home and join the King community. Teaching has pushed me to become a better scientist, which in turn makes me a better teacher.</p> <p>In the spring of 2015, my second semester at King, I was diagnosed with a rare form of pancreatic cancer (non-functional neuroendocrine carcinoma). As of summer 2015, I am cancer free after undergoing chemotherapy and surgery at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Throughout the whirlwind of the few months between diagnosis and surgery, the support I received from my King family was an important part of my recovery. As I have said may times over, there are too many coincidences to be coincidence, the Hand of Divine Providence is most apparent. Between my eclectic academic background and my personal journey, I hope to serve as both an example and mentor to my students as they find their way to their own vocation.</p> <p>I am committed to providing students with undergraduate research experience and have begun to build a research lab where students can gain valuable experiences and skills. I have, and will continue, to take students to local, regional and national research conferences so that they can begin to build their scientific community. I am also passionate about Women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) and mentoring young women.</p> <p>I am blessed with a wonderful husband, a precocious daughter, fantastic friends and an amazing family. In my free time you can find me on the farm where I grew up, riding horses, spending time with my family and living life to the fullest.</p> "Kelly" "Kelly" Vaughan

School of Education dhwatson@king.edu Hardy Kline Hall 212 423-652-4843 Donna Watson Donna Watson <p><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:10pt">Teaching is the best profession, and I have always been a teacher. I graduated from Big Creek High School (highlighted in the movie<em> October Sky</em>) and couldn't forget my wonderful teachers from elementary, junior high, and high school.  After graduating from Bluefield College with a BA in English and a mathematics minor, I taught mathematics in middle school for 16 years in McDowell County, West Virginia.  In the summers, I worked providing professional development throughout West Virginia with teams from the West Virginia Department of Education.  I was also active in the WVCTM (West Virginia Council of Teachers of Mathematics) and was state president of that organization in 1999-2000. I loved teaching middle school math and Algebra; I wrote grants for computers, manipulatives, and resources because the school was in an area of poverty.</span></p> <p><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:10pt">When I moved to Mercer County, West Virgina, I worked for a textbook resource company, Creative Publications and traveled around the region setting up displays and training teachers in the curriculum.  At the same time, I began work as an adjunct instructor in education at Bluefield College, working for my mentor from my college days, Dr. Gerald Clay.  Eventually I went to Virginia Tech to work on my doctorate degree, and when I finished, I become a full time assistant professor at Bluefield College.  When Dr. Clay retired, I became the director and then the Dean of the School of Education when we established the Master of Arts in Education, adding an online degree to our traditional teacher education program. </span></p> <p><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:10pt">In the summer of 2017, I moved to Bristol, TN, and accepted the position to become the Dean of the School of Education.  Teaching new teachers and guiding the School of Education provide challenges and always daily joy.  I'm so blessed to be working with such fine faculty in education and wonderfully idealistic young people who are called to be teachers.</span></p> <p><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:10pt">I enjoy cooking and feeding people, listening to stories, telling stories, playing the piano (especially for church), gardening, and exploring Appalachia. And I keep a daily gratitude journal where I thank God for His guidance and love.  </span></p> <p><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:10pt">Another favorite verse is from Proverbs 3:5-6<em>,</em> “<em>Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. </em><strong><em> </em></strong><em>In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”</em></span></p> "Donna" "Donna" Watson

Wilcox, Colette

Woodward, Lucas

Yokshas, Lisa