NASHVILLE, Tenn. – (TSU News Service) – In a celebration of excellence in education, Tennessee State University announces the recipients of this year’s prestigious Faculty Teaching Awards in the College of Liberal Arts. Babydoll Kennedy, assistant professor of philosophy and religious studies, and Michael Mitchell, assistant professor of art and art education, were named Teachers of the Year. Both professors hold degrees from TSU.
Dr. Samantha Morgan-Curtis, dean of the College of Liberal Arts, emphasized the rigorous selection process that led to Kennedy and Mitchell being named Teachers of the Year. “It was a very competitive process,” she noted. “Each department nominated one tenured and one non-tenured faculty member, and a committee of departmental representatives reviewed their applications. The hard work of this committee resulted in our clear winners.”
The awards were announced this fall at the College of Liberal Arts’ kickoff meeting.
Kennedy, who has been a professor at TSU for six years, expressed her astonishment at receiving the award. “I’ve always wanted to be a professor,” she said. “When I was contacted about teaching an introductory philosophy course, I initially had my doubts. But I realized that if I found the material engaging, my students would too.” Her commitment to her students is evident in her teaching philosophy, where she emphasizes high expectations to inspire academic growth.
Kennedy’s students echo her sentiments, with former student Shaun Wimberly describing her as “absolutely one of my favorite professors at Tennessee State. She challenged us to think more critically and engaged us in discussions that transcended the classroom.”
Another student, Omari Mason, reflected on his experience in Kennedy’s class, saying, “I took Intro to Philosophy in fall 2023, and I still utilize what I learned today. Professor Kennedy created an environment where we felt respected and encouraged to engage deeply with the material.”
Mitchell, who is in his third year as a faculty at TSU, recounted the moment he learned of his award with humility and surprise. “I was stepping out for a call when someone asked if I was Michael Mitchell,” he recalled. “Walking back in, everyone was smiling, and I knew something special was happening.”
Mitchell’s dedication to fostering a supportive learning environment has not gone unnoticed. Graphic design major Amariana Jones praised him for creating a comfortable classroom atmosphere where creativity thrives. “He makes it a safe space for students to express themselves and explore their creativity without fear of judgment,” Jones said. “His classes are not just about learning techniques; they’re about building confidence and community. I always look forward to coming to class because of the positive energy he brings.”
Dean Morgan-Curtis expressed deep admiration for Kennedy and Mitchell, recognizing their unique contributions to the university. “I am incredibly proud of both of them,” she stated. “Professor Kennedy’s rigorous approach to teaching challenges students to think critically, while Professor Mitchell’s commitment to community art fosters a welcoming and creative environment. They both exemplify the standards of excellence we strive for in our faculty.”
She highlighted the significance of reinstating the Faculty Teaching Awards after a hiatus due to COVID-19. “This is the first year we’ve brought the awards back, and we’re excited to continue this tradition moving forward,” she said.
Both Kennedy and Mitchell look forward to inspiring future generations of students at TSU. “Education is about connection,” Mitchell explained. “We are here to guide students as they navigate the complexities of the world.”
With their remarkable dedication and innovative teaching methods, Kennedy and Mitchell are not only shaping the academic landscape at TSU but also setting a standard of excellence that will inspire current and future educators.
For more information on the College of Liberal Arts, visit https://www.tnstate.edu/cla/.
About Tennessee State UniversityFounded in 1912, Tennessee State University is Nashville’s only public land-grant university offering 41 bachelor’s degrees, 15 graduate certificates, 27 master’s degrees, and nine doctoral degrees. TSU’s campus spans 500 acres. The university is committed to academic excellence, providing students with a quality education in a nurturing and innovative environment that prepares them as alumni to be global leaders. Visit tnstate.edu for more details.