Presentation of Awards

Jacqueline Howard-Matthews

As an Assistant Professor of Africana Studies, Jacqueline Howard-Matthews combines personal experiences and anecdotes from her work in Africa with theory and research to make each lecture illuminating and enjoyable.  By encouraging her students to play “devil’s advocate”, she enables them to see both sides of every argument.  Her written assignments are known to be challenging but she provides her students with a comprehensive guide to writing organized and succinct research papers.  Jacqueline Howard-Matthew’s  commitment to teaching does not stop at the classroom.   In the words of one student, “As my independent study advisor, Professor Howard-Matthews insisted that we meet once, twice, even three time a week to make sure we could accomplish our goals.  She has continually encouraged me and given me strength when I thought I could not succeed.  Professor Howard-Matthews is truly an inspiration.”

Randy Shull

Randy Shull is described as enthusiastic and challenging, patient and understanding – as one student puts it, “the ‘Papa Bear’ of the Computer Science Department.”  Professor Shull is dedicated to giving Computer Science majors a broad background that prepares them for life beyond Wellesley.  In the classroom, he teaches with “infectious energy and a sense of humor.”  By providing an environment which is both intellectually challenging and warmly supportive, he removes any fears of the subject and encourages questions.  Professor Shull will gladly spend hours explaining problems or offering support as an advisor.   His commitment to his students, coupled with his dynamic and caring personality, make him a great asset to the Wellesley community.

Terry Tyler

Terry Tyler teaches students to observe the many threads of politics, religion and revolution that weave through centuries of literature.  He constantly brings new insights and critical interpretations to the material that he teaches.  With prolific energy and boundless enthusiasm, Professor Tyler never uses his expansive knowledge to intimidate students.  He presents complex ideas in an understandable way, and encourages his students to form their own opinions.  He will work meticulously with a student on her writing style, so that she can express her point more clearly or extend a class period so that he and a student can debate one last point.  His passion for his subject is contagious and his students say that they emerge from his classes transformed.