Byers Recognized as Educator of the Year, Cox Named Research Mentor of the Year

Jeremy Byers, instructor in military science, received the 2014 "Educator of the Year" award at the annual Accolades of Academics banquet, which took place April 23 in the Student Union Building.

Byers teaches leadership courses for Truman’s ROTC program. He was chosen for this award based on his dedication to encouraging students to become leaders in and outside of the military science department, support from countless students and colleagues, and his devotion to converting the radar station north of Kirksville into a space that benefits both the Military Science Department and the University at large.

In addition to Byers, finalists for this award included Katherine Jackson, Jerrold Hirsch, Donald Krause, Beverly Peters and Debra Cartwright.

Carolyn Cox, professor of Health Science, was awarded the "Outstanding Research Mentor of the Year" award.

Cox has mentored countless students on a variety of projects, many of which have a positive effect on the Kirksville community. Her students’ research has been published nationally and students have presented at national conferences. In addition, Cox’s students regularly write grants and are awarded competitive funding to complete their projects.

Other finalists for the "Outstanding Research Mentor of the Year" include Sal Costa, David Conner, Carol Marshall and Stephen Hudman.

Professors honored at the Accolades of Academics banquet were all nominated by students and were awarded by a student-driven committee. Members from Student Government, the Pershing Society and Phi Kappa Phi serve on the "Educator of the Year" committee. Students have the opportunity to nominate instructors for these awards each year at senate.truman.edu.