End-of-Year Honors for Faculty, Staff

The end of the 2015-2016 academic year brought honors for several Candler faculty and staff members. Three annual, student-chosen awards were announced at the End of the Year Party on April 22, while the prestigious Emory Williams Teaching Award was presented during Candler’s diploma ceremony on May 9.

Shelly Hart 02T, Candler’s registrar, received the award for Staff Person of the Year. “Shelly has gone above and beyond for me this year,” one nominator wrote. “She is always professional, encouraging, and helpful. Her calmness is contagious and her support is a breath of fresh air. Her guidance has helped me better understand the meaning of service.” 

Associate Dean of Worship and Music Barbara Day Miller, who is retiring at the end of this academic year, received the Faculty Person of the Year Award. One nominator wrote, “Even in her final year of service to Candler, Dean Day Miller is tireless in thoughtful worship planning, but also in getting to know individual students, identifying both current gifts and propensities for growth. She is encouraging of all levels of ability, while simultaneously demanding excellence at every turn.”

Rex D. Matthews, professor in the practice of historical theology and Wesleyan studies, received the On Eagle’s Wings Excellence in Teaching Award, which is conferred by the senior class in recognition of faithful and dedicated service. One nominator wrote that Matthews “moves beyond the call to educate, and truly invests in the lives of his students.”

At commencement, Dean Jan Love recognized Associate Professor of Pastoral Care and Pastoral Theology Karen D. Scheib as the recipient of this year’s Emory Williams Teaching Award, the highest teaching award granted by Emory University. The award honors faculty for fostering participation, inquiry, and creative expression in the classroom, providing a model for teaching and scholarship, and serving as a mentor to students.