Faculty and Student Research
Engaging in research activities with faculty is a remarkable way to learn outside
of the classroom. Take a look at a few highlights from our many outstanding faculty
and student research projects or visit the Faculty Directory to learn even more. At McKendree University our faculty are the R-E-A-L deal.
Responsible Citizenship
At McKendree University many of our students and faculty are committed to service
and participating actively in society. Dr. Ann Collins teaches American Politics and regularly states that she "has the best job on campus." Dr. Collins encourages
students to become informed citizens and vote. She also organizes trips to the state
capital for students to see government in action.
Dr. Lynn Huxford started the Center for Public Service and has had an impact on thousands of students and surrounding communities organizing
service experiences. Courtney Motl, a McKendree University campus leader in community
service and academics, has been chosen a 2012 Newman Civic Fellow. The award recognizes
162 inspiring college students from 32 states who are working to find solutions for
the challenges facing their communities. Motl co-coordinates the university’s service
program at the Family Living Center, a transitional housing shelter in East St. Louis
for homeless women and children. “Courtney is successfully blending academics and
co-curricular activities into a well-rounded educational experience,” said Dr. James
Dennis, McKendree University president. “She has the intellect, motivation, leadership
skills and commitment to be successful – indeed, she is already a proven leader."
Engagement
Dr. Jean Sampson believes in truly engaging her students. In addition to learning about business
in the classroom, she also encourages students to get involved outside of the classroom.
Recently four McKendree students conducted research on illegal trafficking on fishing
boats and won the Student Ethics Competition hosted by the International Assembly
of Collegiate Business Education (IACBE).
Austin Vuichard, Erika Schutzenhofer, Jessica Muckensturm, and Danni Warren found
an ethical issue and explained it from a legal, financial, marketing, management and
economic point of view. They conducted their research online and via e-mail and created
a brochure. The students also created a Facebook page to share their research with
the world.
Academic Excellence
Dr. Martha Patterson spent the first decade of her career writing about the New Woman. In 2005, she published
Beyond the Gibson Girl: Reimagining the American New Woman, 1895-1915 with the University
of Illinois Press, and in 2008 she published The American New Woman Revisited: A Reader,
1894-1930 with Rutgers University Press.
Patterson is currently working on a book project called The Harlem Renaissance Weekly about major Harlem Renaissance writers who wrote in Black newspapers during the 1920s and 1930s. When relevant, Patterson incorporates her scholarship into her teaching, and she has hired students through McKendree's work study program to help research and proofread her work for publication.
Dr. Brian Frederking epitomizes academic excellence. He involves students with his research and is a
prolific publisher. Below are summaries of his two recent books:
The Politics of Global Governance: International Organizations in an Interdependent
World, 2010, 4th edition, co-edited with Paul Diehl, Boulder: Lynne Rienner Publications.
The United States and the Security Council: Collective Security since the Cold War,
2007, London: Routledge.
Lifelong Learning
At McKendree University we are proud of the fact that over 97% of our students pursue
graduate school or obtain careers in their fields. We value lifelong learning and encourage faculty,
staff, and students to keep exploring new knowledge. Faculty attend and present at
regional and national conferences. Recently Dr. Tami Eggleston was accepted into the American Psychological Association's Leadership Institute for
Women. Dr. Eggleston will learn about leadership theories and skills and bring this
information back to the McKendree University campus and share with students enrolled
in our newly developed Leadership Studies Minor. This minor is a joint endeavor with
Academic Affairs and Student Affairs and will afford students the opportunity to learn
about leadership research and apply this knowledge in McKendree University organizations.
Dr. Richelle Rennegarbe is assisting other nurses with their lifelong learning. She published Systemic Lupus
Erythematosus (3rded.) in October 2011. The continuing education course is published by NetCE Continuing
Education and offers five contact hours for registered nurses. The purpose of the
course is to provide nurses with the healthcare information to provide appropriate
care, guidance, and support for patient who are living with the chronic disease of
systemic lupus erythematosus and includes evidence-based practice recommendations.
