Tulane University

By: Fran Simon
fsimon@tulane.edu

Photo: Ronna Burger, left, and April Brayfield receive recognition as outstanding members of the liberal arts faculty. Judith Maxwell also was recognized with an award at an event on the Newcomb quad, though she is in Guatemala as a Fulbright Scholar. (Photo by Paula Burch-Celentano).

In a big white tent under a clear blue sky, the School of Liberal Arts hosted an end-of-year barbecue and awards ceremony on the Newcomb quad with a “fiesta” theme and music by Latin band Mas Mamones on Tuesday (April 27).

Carole Haber, dean of the School of Liberal Arts, presented three faculty members with awards, along with checks for $2,500.

The outstanding teaching award went to April Brayfield, associate professor of sociology. Ronna Burger, professor and chair of philosophy, received the honor for outstanding research or creative activities. The outstanding service award went to Judith Maxwell, professor of anthropology, who currently is in Guatemala as a Fulbright Scholar.

Haber also announced that Dennis Kehoe, professor of classical studies, received the Andrew W. Mellon Professorship in the Humanities, a three-year rotating appointment including a generous stipend and research support. Two Andrew W. Mellon Young Professorships in the Humanities, given to individuals who have recently passed their third-year review, were awarded to Jana Lipman, assistant professor of history, and John Charles, assistant professor of Spanish and Portuguese.

Haber said, “Even before I arrived at Tulane, I was struck by the dedication of the faculty — inspiring teachers, world-class researchers and tireless workers for good of the university, they brought an energy to the campus that was truly contagious. I am delighted that we are able to shine the light of recognition on some of these outstanding individuals.”

She announced that next year the School of Liberal Arts also will recognize an outstanding staff member.

After the awards presentation, Haber invited guests to tour the renovated first floor and lobby of Newcomb Hall. In addition to a new elevator, new entryway, lighting and signage, the blood-red walls are hung with 19 historic photos. A plaque bearing the names of the annual winners of faculty awards soon will be added.

See the original article in Tulane’s New Wave.