St. Mary's College of Maryland will celebrate the return of Faculty Laurels on Tuesday, Nov. 3, recognizing faculty scholarship, research and creative achievement across disciplines. The event, which will serve as November's Community Hour, will take place from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the lobby of the Nancy R. and Norton T. Dodge Performing Arts Center.
Part of the St. Mary's Athenaeum, Faculty Laurels brings the campus and broader community together to celebrate the intellectual contributions of faculty whose scholarship and creative work advance knowledge, enrich teaching and contribute to the academic life of the College.
“In a year in which we explore the meaning of community at St. Mary's College, Faculty Laurels highlights our community of scholars. The event is an opportunity to celebrate the intellectual curiosity, creativity and scholarly achievement, and diligence that define our academic community,” said Katherine Gantz, provost and dean of faculty. “Our faculty are accomplished scholars and dedicated teachers whose research and creative work inform the classroom experience and contribute to conversations well beyond our campus. The return of this celebration provides a meaningful opportunity to recognize their contributions and learn from one another's work.”
A highlight of the celebration will be the recognition of the College's seven current endowed chairholders. Gantz will introduce the honorees, and President Rhonda Phillips will present each with the Provost's Faculty Laurels pin, which recipients may wear with their academic regalia. The presentation establishes a new recognition tradition, with former endowed chairholders to receive pins at a later date.
The seven endowed chairholders being recognized are:
- Asif Dowla, professor of economics, The Hilda Combs Landers Endowed Chair in the Liberal Arts (Jan. 1, 2009–present).
- Cassie Gurbisz, associate professor of marine science, The Steven Muller Distinguished Professor of Science (Aug. 1, 2025–May 31, 2028).
- Chuck Holden, professor of history, The George B. and Willma Reeves Endowed Chair in the Liberal Arts (August 2026–May 2029).
- Angela Johnson, professor of educational studies, The G. Thomas and Martha Myers Yeager Endowed Chair in the Liberal Arts (Aug. 1, 2018–present).
- Liz Leininger, associate professor of neuroscience, The Aldom Plansoen Honors College Professor (Aug. 1, 2026–May 31, 2028).
- Sarah Malena, associate professor of history, The Aldom Plansoen Honors College Professor (Aug. 1, 2026–May 31, 2028).
- Jessye McDowell, associate professor of art, The Steven Muller Distinguished Professor of Art (Aug. 1, 2026–May 31, 2029).
Three of the honorees will also deliver brief Lightning Round TED talks highlighting the scholarly works they have submitted for recognition. Designed for a general audience, the talks will offer attendees an opportunity to hear directly from faculty about their work and its significance.
The three Lightning Round TED talks will be presented by:
- Chuck Holden, professor of history
- Cassie Gurbisz, associate professor of marine science
- Liz Leininger, associate professor of neuroscience
Students in Phillips' Presidential Leadership Cohort, an independent study course she teaches, will help host the celebration. Through the course, students gain hands-on leadership experience by planning and facilitating programs that bring the campus and broader community together.
Throughout the reception, attendees will be able to explore an exhibition of faculty publications and scholarly artifacts assembled by the College's library. Digital displays will highlight participating faculty members, their departments and the work being celebrated.
The celebration offers students, faculty, staff and community members an opportunity to connect with scholars and experience the academic excellence at the heart of the College's public honors mission.
The event is free and open to the campus and surrounding community.
