Hannibal-LaGrange University is proud to announce the winners of the Parkway Distinguished Professor Award and the Immanuel Staff Member of the Year for the 2023-24 academic year.
Every year, the Parkway Distinguished Professor Award, HLGU’s highest faculty award, is given by Parkway Baptist Church in St. Louis. This is the 34th year of the award. It is presented to an exceptional member of the HLGU faculty. Selection is based on outstanding professional and personal contributions to Christian education.
This year’s Parkway Distinguished Professor Award recipient is Dr. Melanie Smith. Dr. Smith is an Associate Professor of Education and serves as Chair of the Education Division. She began teaching at HLGU in the fall of 2014.
In their nominations, her colleagues said Dr. Melanie Smith has an unwavering passion and dedication to her students. She exemplifies what it means to be a caring and invested educator, consistently going above and beyond to support and inspire her students. Dr. Smith’s passion for teaching is evident in every aspect of her work, and she consistently seeks opportunities to enhance her teaching skills and adapt her methods to meet the needs of her students. Her enthusiasm for her subject matter is infectious, sparking curiosity and igniting a love for learning in our education students.
Beyond the classroom, Dr. Smith truly takes the time to connect with her students on a personal level. She is approachable, empathetic, and always willing to lend a listening ear or offer guidance. Whether it’s providing mentorship, writing recommendation letters, or simply offering words of encouragement, Dr. Smith goes out of her way to ensure her students feel supported and valued.
Moreover, Dr. Smith consistently seeks opportunities to enhance her teaching skills and adapt her methods to meet the needs of her students. She embraces innovative teaching techniques and fosters an inclusive and supportive learning environment where every student feels seen and heard.
Dr. Smith earned a PhD in Curriculum and Instruction, with an emphasis in Language, Diversity, and Literacy Studies from Texas Tech University in 2022. She also holds a Specialist of Education degree from William Woods University, and Master’s and Bachelor of Science degrees in Education from the University of Missouri—Columbia.
Dr. Smith is more than just a faculty member—she is a mentor, friend, role model, and true advocate for her students’ success. Her passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to student learning makes her an exceptional educator and deserving of this year’s 2024 Parkway Distinguished Professor Award.
Each year, the staff member of the year award is sponsored by Immanuel Baptist Church in Hannibal. Full-time staff members are nominated by their colleagues and confirmed by the Executive Cabinet. Criteria for nomination include exemplary performance in contractual duties, contributions to the University in time, effort, and creativity, and understanding and embodiment of “Knowledge for Service.”
This year’s staff member of the year is Amanda Kohl. Amanda is a 2023 graduate of HLGU. Mrs. Kohl serves the university as the Guest Experience Coordinator for the Admissions office where she started working in 2023.
Although she has only been in the position of Visit Coordinator in the Admissions Office for a year, it is hard to overstate Amanda’s impact on the HLGU community. She started her position after graduating from HLGU last Spring. Amanda does so much more than fulfill her position. She is a true jack-of-all-trades, having contributed to every department in some capacity. She answers phones, directs visitors around campus, gives tours, coordinates visits, and organizes countless events, all with an infectious joy and a warm smile that has left a lasting impression on everyone with whom she interacts.
Amanda’s “How can I help?” attitude and welcoming demeanor are outstanding. She goes above and beyond to ensure that everyone she encounters feels valued and supported. Amanda sets a truly remarkable example of servant leadership. Her enthusiasm for serving others is inspiring and humbling, and she has made a difference in the lives of many people at HLGU.
It is common to see Amanda in action in different areas of campus, always pitching in and making the best of every opportunity. Her overflowing mercy and grace have encouraged many people at HLGU, and she has earned the respect and admiration of all who know her.People frequently express their gratitude for Amanda’s willingness to step up and fill any gap as necessary. She is a true asset to Hannibal-LaGrange University, and for these reasons, she is being recognized as the Immanuel Staff Member of the Year.
Both HLGU award winners were honored during the May 2024 HLGU commencement ceremony.