District faculty recognized at Missouri Community College Association’s luncheon
By: SPENCER GLEASON
Editor-In-Cheif
STLCC-Meramec Assistant Professor of English Shannon Philpott was awarded the Governor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching in Holts Summit, Mo., on Wednesday, April 8. Philpott is also the adviser of The Montage student newspaper.
The award, which is given to the top community college teachers in the state each year, was sponsored by the Missouri Community College Association.
The Excellence in Teaching Award includes a proclaimation from Gov. Jay Nixon.
“I consider myself blessed to have a career where I do something I love every day,” Philpott said. “Knowing that my students learn something from me in the newsroom or in the classroom is reward enough. But, to be recognized by my colleagues is an honor I never expected.”
Joining Philpott at the event was Meramec Vice President of Academic Affairs Andrew Langrehr.
“I was happy to participate in the awards ceremony,” Langrehr said. “Shannon was deserving and I was honored to participate with her. She represents the quality of instruction that we provide (at Meramec).”
Philpott was nominated by Meramec Psychology Professor Dianne Pisacreta in Fall 2013. Pisacreta observed Philpott’s teaching style and received words of admiration from former Montage students.
“She was great in the classroom,” Pisacreta said in her nomination letter. “To me the mentoring of students is the true demonstration of excellence in teaching; mentoring indicates care and connection.”
Along with Philpott, one professor from each of the other STLCC sister campuses were acknowledged.
Sharon Fox, from STLCC-Florissant Valley, Monica Swindle, from STLCC-Wildwood, and Dan Yezbick, from STLCC-Forest Park all recognized.
“It was such an incredible feeling to receive this award surrounded by such talented and creative educators,” Philpott said.
Philpott has taught at Meramec since August 2007. She recieved the Honor Roll Advisor Award in 2012 from the National College Media Association.
Since she began advising, The Montage has won Pacemaker Awards in 2009 and 2014 from the Associated Collegiate Press.
In addition, The Montage has been named Best Overall Newspaper in the two-year college division by the Missouri College Media Association.
“My goal as advisor is to merely guide my students and I’m so proud of their dedication and commitment to the paper that results in recognition,” Philpott said. “But, those awards belong to my students, not me.”
Philpott teaches English Composition I and II, Writing and Reporting for the Media and Feature Writing. She said she likes the variety of teaching both English and journalism classes.
“I never really see myself as a traditional teacher, but more so a coach or mentor,” Philpott said. “My approach is not really authoritative – I’m more of a collaborator with my students.”
