Thursday, May 24, 2012
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CENTREVILLE — Dr. Lester Keith, Professor of Business Administration, received the 2010-2011 E. J. Shaheen Chair for Teaching Excellence Award at Glen Oaks Community College. This the 27th year the teaching award has been presented to a member of the college faculty nominated for innovation and quality instruction by students, alumni, fellow faculty, staff and community members.
Professor Keith joined Glen Oaks as a part-time instructor in 1991 and became a full-time instructor in 1993. Dr. Keith attended the University of Texas at San Antonio where he earned a Bachelor's degree in Management and a Master's degree in Management and Marketing. He also served two years in the military at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio. Dr. Keith earned his Doctorate in Marketing in 2006 at Argosy University, Sarasota, Florida.
Dr. Ana Gaillat, Dean of the College, said Dr. Keith asked that the $2,000 annual award from the Shaheen Fund and the cost of an engraved oak chair to the winner be combined as a donation to two non-profit programs: the Domestic Assault Shelter and Downs Syndrome. The award is funded by an endowment created by the late Eli J. Shaheen, one of the founding leaders of Glen Oaks Community College. The Sturgis industrialist was also a major contributor to University of Notre Dame and to quality education in general.
As he presented the award at the 2011 Graduation program, Dr. Gary Wheeler, President, said, "Dr. Keith challenges students to achieve high expectations and goes out of his way to encourage students to succeed. He has worked diligently to encourage student success in and out of classes, telling them that they can both study hard and play hard---life is to be experience 'all out'. Lester also is known as the guy who comes up with the fun ideas for student activities and ways to make life at the college more engaging for students, faculty, and staff. I want to thank him and add my congratulations for all he does!"
Professor Keith reminded those attending both the luncheon and the graduation program, "This award is not just about ME! It is a reflection of everyone at Glen Oaks. I feel like my receiving the Shaheen Award for Teaching Excellence is the result of all of us as a team. That includes the librarians, counselors, all staff and our college leadership...everyone!"
