The Chart Online

Professor receives recognition from governor
Virginia Fairchild

City Editor

A Missouri Southern instructor has earned a seat in Jefferson City to receive recognition from Gov. Bob Holden.

Dr. Beverly A. Block, professor of business, was recently nominated for the 2002 Governor s Award for Excellence in Teaching by College President Julio Le n. She will represent Southern Dec. 4 at a luncheon with the governor and other recipients from institutions of higher education.

Le n said he compiles input from faculty members and administration to determine the annual recipient.

I think it s important to recognize individuals who are outstanding teachers in the classroom as well as outside of the classroom, Le n said.

He said the recipients must significantly participate in activities that benefit students as well as further the development of their careers.

We have so many outstanding faculty members, he said. It s simply the fact that she (Block) has distinguished herself.

She began her career as an educator at the high school level. Block then shifted to the collegiate level and taught business for two years at Pittsburg State University. While attaining her doctorate at the University of Arkansas, Block became a member of the Southern team, of which she has been a part for almost 19 years.

It s (Southern) a good place to work, she said. I like the people that I work with, and that means a lot. I like the students and that s what teaching is all about. That s why I got into this business years ago.

Block said she always tries to put her best foot forward while teaching. She instructs students in the areas of business communication, using information systems, professional development and business education.

I think that s what this award is all about, teaching, she said. I care about the students and want to help them do well and see them succeed. That s a real perk of teaching.

Block said her continuing goal as a professional is to keep enjoying the classroom.

I ve tried to always stay on the cutting edge of everything we do here, she said. Technology has really changed my role as a teacher. I want to continue to jump in with both feet.

She said her retirement is in the foreseeable future, but she plans to stay at Southern for the duration of her career.

I like the College, and I have the utmost respect for President Le n, Block said. My respect for him has really deepened the award, knowing he was responsible for picking me.

Le n said Block is a very deserving individual.