A University of Lynchburg graduate recently received the top teaching award from the University of Georgia system.
Dr. Richard Deaner ’98 MEd was selected for the 2016 University System of Georgia (USG) Board of Regents’ Teaching Excellence Award.
A press release from Augusta University, where he teaches counselor education, cites examples from his students and colleagues who say the University of Lynchburg alumnus finds innovative ways to engage with students, help them explore topics that counselors must master, and foster their professional development opportunities.
“We are proud of Dr. Deaner and what he is doing to promote the field of counseling. It is always exciting to see our master’s degree students go on to great success,” said Dr. Roger Jones, dean of the School of Education, Leadership Studies, and Counseling. “Because of his work, research efforts, and community outreach, it is easy to see why he was recognized with a statewide university teaching award.”
Dr. Deaner said his time at the College helped shape his approach to counseling and teaching. “It is so refreshing to think of University of Lynchburg and to know it is where my counseling foundation was formed,” he said. “I had great mentors and they have certainly influenced my professional development in a meaningful way.”
Dr. Deaner received his bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Virginia before earning his master’s degree in counselor education at University of Lynchburg. He later earned his PhD in counselor education at the University of South Carolina.
