Central College Board of Trustees approved the following faculty promotions at Central, effective Friday, Aug. 1, 2025.
- Shelli Green, kinesiology program, a 2007 Central graduate, has been promoted to associate professor.
- Katherine Nesbit, English program, has been promoted to associate professor.
- Maggie Fisher Schlerman, accounting program, a 2002 Central graduate, has been promoted to professor.
The Academic Affairs office announced the 2025 endowed faculty awards for excellence during their annual celebration.
- Frank W. Moore Faculty Award recipient — Melissa McAninch, associate professor of education
- Huffman Award for Outstanding Support for International Education recipient — Anya Butt, professor of biology
- Hutch Bearce Community-Building and Faculty Leadership Award recipient — Sara Shuger Fox, associate professor of kinesiology
- David Crichton Memorial Teaching Award recipient — Valerie Billing, associate professor of English
- John Wesselink Award recipient — Timothy Olin, associate professor of history
Excellent faculty are the cornerstone of a quality college experience, offering mentorship, academic rigor and personal support that inspire students to reach their full potential. Their passion and expertise not only deepen classroom learning but also shape lifelong values and career paths.
The Central board also bestowed emeritus status to the following departing faculty members.
- Jennifer Diers, associate professor of education
- Ellie DuPré, professor of biology
- Nicole Kaplan, professor of French
- Cynthia Mahmood, professor of anthropology
- Dawn Reece, associate professor sociology and 1989 graduate
- John Roslien, associate professor of kinesiology
- Mary Stark, professor of English
- Susan Swanson, associate professor of art
- Keith Yanner, professor of political science
Kristin Siewert, senior lecturer of biology, also retired in May.
‘We are extraordinarily thankful to these faculty, who combined have dedicated 255 years to Central students,” says Mary E.M. Strey, vice president for academic affairs. “Their unwavering commitment, profound wisdom and passion for teaching have not only shaped countless minds but have also woven the very fabric of this institution’s legacy. They leave behind an indelible mark of excellence, inspiring generations of students and colleagues alike. We are immensely grateful for their exceptional service and celebrate their careers with deep gratitude and heartfelt admiration.”
