James R. McDonald, associate professor of criminal justice and forensic science, is Southern Wesleyan University’s 2024 recipient of the SCICU Excellence In Teaching Award. He received his Master of Public Administration degree from Clemson University and his Bachelor of Science in Biology from Furman University. Prior to his arrival at SWU in 2012, he spent seven years at Greenville Technical College and 18 years as a crime lab director, forensic scientist, and jail administrator.
As coordinator of the Criminal Justice Studies program, McDonald teaches a wide range of classes, including Introduction to Corrections, Fingerprint Analysis, Introduction to Forensic Science, Health and Fitness for Criminal Justice, Police and Community, and numerous firearms courses. He is known among students and colleagues for his energetic, holistic approach to teaching, which seeks to equip students intellectually, spiritually, psychologically, and professionally to negotiate both the opportunities and challenges in today’s criminal justice system.
Above all, he strives to develop knowledgeable, compassionate, godly men and women capable of making a positive difference in the criminal justice system and in the lives of those they will one day serve. As SWU’s president, Dr. William Barker, observes: “Professor McDonald’s personal investment in each of his students and his tireless efforts, inside and outside the classroom, to help them fulfill their God-given callings are a wonderful example of what it means to serve others well. This model of Christ-like love and care is something these students will carry with them long after they have graduated from SWU.”
McDonald’s service-oriented mindset extends to other areas of the university as well. He co-chairs the Faculty Development Committee, supervises the Criminal Justice Club, regularly assists with student recruitment, and represents SWU at various events within the surrounding communities.
Spartanburg Methodist College – 2024 SCICU Excellence In Teaching – Dr. Judy Mirick