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McKendree University Philosophy Professor Named This Year’s Emerson Award Winner

(LEBANON, Ill., Dec. 1, 2025) – Dr. Kevin Zanelotti, professor of philosophy at McKendree University, is this year’s recipient of the 2025 Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award for his outstanding contribution to the teaching profession and to his students. He was chosen by the university’s top administrators and received an engraved crystal apple, along with additional Emerson recognition. The award also includes an opportunity to apply for an Emerson grant to support supplemental classroom services or materials at an award recipient’s school.

Dr. Zanelotti is a dedicated and innovative teacher who consistently goes above and beyond and actively participates in events that showcase his students and colleagues. He teaches a wide range of courses, including Logic, Existentialism, Biomedical Ethics, and Social and Political Philosophy, all of which meet the diverse needs of both general education students and philosophy majors at McKendree. The university’s math professors strongly encourage their majors to take Dr. Zanelotti’s logic course because they know it will strengthen their foundational knowledge of mathematical logic.

Dr. Zanelotti’s students are deeply engaged and appreciate the intellectual freedom they experience in his student-centered classes. He consistently maintains high expectations and provides strong support for his students with grace and patience. Beyond teaching, Dr. Zanelotti has served as the faculty sponsor of APO, organized blood drives, and served as a mentor for at-risk students. He has also played a key role in developing the legal studies minor at McKendree, along with the university’s 3+3 program with Washington University School of Law. For several years, he served on the Undergraduate Council and addressed even the most controversial issues with the best interests of students in mind.

McKendree alumni who also received this year’s Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award include the following:

  • Ronnie Stuart, Jr. ’03, MA Ed. ’09, Freeburg High School
  • Sarah Germann ’14, High Mount School
  • Cassandra Gillespie MA Ed. ’16, Wolf Branch Middle School
  • Tabitha Goodman MSN ’21, Saint Louis Community College
  • Gina James ’95, MA Ed. ’09, Joseph Arthur Middle School
  • Jaime A. Juhas ’16, Pontiac Junior High School
  • Sarah (Humphrey) Presson ’02, Triad Middle School
  • Sarah L. Shelton ’02, EDD ’22, Shiloh Middle School
  • Brian Zurek MA. Ed. ’10, Alton Middle School

 

-McK-