L to R: James Mahon, sociology; Melda Yildiz, secondary and middle school education; Charley Flint and Susanna Tardi, sociology; Rachel Wetzsteon, English; and Provost and Senior Vice President Edward Weil.

Nine faculty members were honored for their outstanding achievements in scholarship/creative activity, teaching and service during the fourth annual Faculty Recognition Luncheon held on May 15 in conjunction with the University’s 184th commencement ceremonies.

The awards, which were presented by President Arnold Speert and provost and senior vice president Edward Weil, were instituted in 2004 to recognize faculty achievements and contributions as the University celebrates the success of students at their graduation.

Honored in the category of scholarship were Emmanuel Onaivi, biology; Eswar Phadia, mathematics; and Rachel Wetzsteon, English.  In the teaching category, recipients were Elizabeth Haines, psychology; James Mahon, sociology; and Melda Yildiz, secondary and middle school education.  Receiving awards for service were Theodore Cook, history; Charley Flint, sociology; and Susanna Tardi, sociology.

“These awards provide us with the opportunity to recognize some of our outstanding faculty members for excellence in teaching, scholarship and service,” says Weil.  “The work of these faculty members exemplifies the wide range of talents and accomplishments of the academic community at William Paterson University.”

Each honoree received a plaque and a $1,000 award for professional development activities such as research assistance, conference attendance, training and travel.