Columbia, S.C. — South Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities (SCICU) honored 20 outstanding faculty members from its member institutions at the 2026 Excellence in Teaching Awards Dinner on April 21. The annual event recognizes professors whose commitment to student learning and enthusiasm for teaching make a lasting impact on their campuses.
Each of SCICU’s 20 member colleges and universities selects one faculty member who exemplifies excellence in undergraduate instruction and mentorship. Award recipients receive a $3,000 professional development grant to further support their work as educators and leaders in higher education.
“We are proud to recognize these faculty members for the meaningful role they play in shaping their students’ futures and strengthening our state,” said Robert Lloyd, SCICU President and CEO.
2026 Excellence in Teaching Award Recipients:
Bottom row, from left:
Dr. Amenti Sujai, Allen University
Ms. Bethany Flagg Pipkin, Anderson University
Dr. Shaneen Dials-Corujo, Benedict College
Ms. Vickie Cuthrell Britton, Bob Jones University
Dr. Dawn Casas, Charleston Southern University
Dr. Friggita Johnson, Claflin University
Mr. Nathaniel Gulledge, Coker University
Dr. GaKyung Jeong, Columbia College
Dr. Steve A. Johnson, Columbia International University
Dr. Stefania Licata, Converse University
Top row, from left:
Dr. Christiane-Marie Abu Sarah, Erskine College
Ms. Sandra Roberson, Furman University
Dr. Bennie Craig Douglas, Morris College
Dr. Romy Rajan, Newberry College
Ms. Amy Dunlap, North Greenville University
Dr. Austin Young Shull, Presbyterian College
Dr. Michele Eller, Southern Wesleyan University
Mr. Kris Neely, Spartanburg Methodist College
Dr. Christopher O. Obondi, Voorhees University
Dr. Johnathan Davis, Wofford College
For more information about SCICU and the Excellence in Teaching Awards, visit https://scicu.org.
The Excellence in Teaching Awards are a core part of SCICU’s mission to support and promote the value of independent higher education in South Carolina.
About SCICU
South Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities, Inc. (SCICU) supports and advocates for independent higher education in South Carolina. Representing 20 private colleges and universities, SCICU promotes collaboration, public awareness, and resources that advance academic excellence and student success.
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