Spurlin, Brown awarded faculty emeritus status at Missouri Southern

(From Southern News Service)

Two longtime faculty members were recognized for their distinguished service to Missouri Southern State University during the Board of Governors meeting held Friday, Nov. 17.

Dr. Jack Spurlin and Dr. Deborah Brown were awarded faculty emeritus status, which is based on significant contributions in areas such as teaching, job performance, and scholarly and creative activities. In order to be eligible, faculty must hold the rank of associate or full professor after a minimum of 15 years of service. It is typically not awarded until retirement or, in some cases, posthumously.

During his 35 years of service to Missouri Southern, Spurlin served as coordinator of the university’s Police Academy and as an instructor in the Criminal Justice Department. In 1990, he was appointed chair of the department and director of the academy. In 1993, he was appointed dean of the School of Technology and as vice president of lifelong learning five years later.

“The faculty members of the Criminal Justice Department believe no person has contributed more to the growth and success of the department than Dr. Spurlin,” said Dr. Mike Hulderman, of the Criminal Justice Department, in nominating him for the recognition.

Brown, who retired following the Spring 2017 semester, had a 23-year tenure with the university She served in a variety of academic and administrative positions over the years, including assistant professor, professor, department chair and graduate program coordinator. In 2015, she was named the School of Education’s interim dean, and full dean in July 2016.



“Of particular note is her legacy of mentorship in the Teacher Education Department,” said Lorinda Hackett, interim dean of the School of Education. “She was the 2017 recipient of the Legacy Award for her resolute efforts fostering innovation, creativity and inquiry in a career of service.”

In other business, the board heard a special presentation on the recent campus rededication ceremony and 50 Years at Mission Hills observance by Community Historian Brad Belk.

“We must continue to commemorate the past so we can convey the rich, compelling story of Missouri Southern,” Belk said. “There is a deep, rich history here and a legacy of worthy accomplishments that must be remembered and shared with future generations.”