Conn. Professor of the Year Selected

NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH) -- A SCSU professor was named the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching Connecticut Professor of the Year.

Deborah Carroll, a professor of psychology, has taught as a full-time faculty member at Southern Connecticut State University since 1994. Carroll credited her late mother, RoseMarie Carroll, who passed away in March, for playing a key role in her selection and her career.

"It is an honor to be named as the recipient of the award and I'm particularly honored to bring recognition to SCSU," Carroll said. "I hope it affords me opportunities to share discussions, strategies and information about teaching with colleagues at all levels of education."

A total of 300 professors were nominated throughout the United States for the various state awards. A professor was chosen in 30 of the 50 states, as well as the District of Columbia.

According to a press release, SCSU interim Provost Marianne Kennedy said the campus is thrilled that Carroll has been recognized with the award.

"Not only is she a gifted teacher and advisor, but she is also a gracious colleague, mentor and role model to other faculty," Kennedy said. "She epitomizes the teacher-scholar that we all try to emulate."

The assistant chairwoman of the SCSU Psychology Department, Cheryl Durwin said Carroll teaches her courses as writing intensive. She believes writing helps students think critically and understand course material.

Kelly Webster, one of Carroll's students who graduated earlier this year, said in a letter of support, "Dr. Carroll is fundamentally concerned with students learning the material, rather than regurgitating it."

The Professors of the Year program began in 1981, when one national winner was named, but expanded in 1985 so that state winners were also named.