Publication Date
8-1-2022
Abstract
JOHNSON CITY – Dr. Cerrone Foster, a scientist teaching at East Tennessee State University for more than a decade, has won the university’s Distinguished Faculty Award for Teaching.
It is the highest teaching honor that ETSU presents to a faculty member.
“I have been nothing but inspired by Cerrone’s passion to contribute to the ETSU community, not only through her teaching but also through a diverse number of activities including research mentorship and community service,” wrote a fellow faculty member and Foster’s nominator.
Foster earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from The College of New Jersey in 2001 and a Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences from ETSU in 2007.
Hired initially as a lecturer in the Department of Biological Sciences, Foster is now a tenured faculty member and the associate director for Undergraduate Research and Creative Activities.
Dr. Cerrone Foster
Over the last 11 years, Foster has taught nearly 6,000 ETSU students, averaging about 550 per year.
Foster’s teaching motto is straightforward: “What you are learning is not for you. One day you will make decisions that affect the lives of others. Therefore, my job is to help you become prepared in doing this.”
Foster teaches a wide range of courses, including introductory biology courses and senior-level classes in biochemistry. She has received teaching grants to redesign and implement evidence-based teaching practices in the classroom. Foster’s impact on teaching includes not only higher education but also projects with K-12 secondary education.
“Dr. Cerrone Foster is a beacon of hope to many youngsters, especially to women of color, first-generation college students and anyone who is intimidated to pursue STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) fields,” Foster’s nominator added.
Document Type
News Article
