One of the many reasons students choose Lander University to continue their education is because of the unparalleled mentorship they receive from professors who challenge them in the classroom, and guide them toward rewarding futures. In recognition of this dedication, Lander has honored four faculty members with its highest awards for teaching, scholarship and service for 2024-25.
Dr. Zach Rubin: Distinguished Professor
Dr. Zach Rubin, an associate professor of sociology, is Lander’s Distinguished Professor of the Year. The award recognizes a faculty member’s exemplary performance as a classroom teacher, as a scholar in his or her chosen field of study and service to Lander University and beyond
In the award nomination, Rubin was lauded for his “ability to apply broad and sociological theories into real life experiences of the students,” noted Dr. Franklin Rausch, chair of the Distinguished Professor Committee. “Application of this difficult material is crucial for students to understand these concepts, and Dr. Rubin’s willingness to do this shows his dedication to student success.”
Rubin, who joined Lander’s faculty in 2019, also was recognized for his outstanding record of scholarship. During this time, he has produced nine peer-reviewed journal articles, four peer-reviewed teaching resources, and book reviews and magazine articles. Rubin, who has presented his research at nine academic conferences, organized the 2023 Carolina Undergraduate Social Science Symposium at Lander, which served as an opportunity for students to present their research at an external conference.
Since 2020, Rubin has been a vital faculty leader in the success of the Bear Necessities Food Pantry, which addresses the problem of food insecurity among college students. In this role, he has developed valuable ties to the community, including the Food Bank of Greenwood County.
Although the award recognizes years of hard work and achievement, Rubin said, “I was lifted up by supportive colleagues, great students and a loving partner. People don’t accomplish great things alone, and this award is just the tip of the iceberg for all the work that people have put into me as much as it is the work I’ve put in myself.”
Zachary E. Wilson: Junior Faculty Teaching Award
A founding member of Lander’s Honors College, Zachary E. Wilson earned his bachelor’s degree in psychology in 2015 at Lander—where he received numerous academic accolades—and a master’s degree in clinical psychology from Augusta University. He joined Lander as an adjunct faculty member in 2018. Now a lecturer at the University, Wilson became a licensed professional counselor in 2021 and is a counselor at Synergy Counseling, of Greenwood. His training experiences and certifications have enabled him to work with children, adolescents and adults as a psychologist.
In his role as teacher, Wilson is recognized for his compassion toward students. The Partnership among South Carolina Academic Libraries (PASCAL) presented Wilson with the Professor for Affordable Learning Award in 2023 in recognition of his use of required materials which are low or no cost for students.
“In both my roles as a counselor and an educator, I have seen the unfortunate deterioration of mental health that many students are experiencing,” he said, noting that he encourages students to look at those around them at the end of class and say, “I’m glad you were here today. I have heard from students on many occasions that this simple activity has made them feel seen and supported.”
Not only does he work to “leave a mark on students’ minds with my activities, lectures and assignments, but they also leave my courses knowing they have a place in the world and matter as a person,” he said.
Dr. Chase T. Worley: Junior Faculty Teaching Award
An assistant professor of mathematics, Dr. Chase T. Worley joined Lander’s faculty in 2021 after a post at Maryville College as a visiting lecturer of mathematics. He earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Maryville and his master’s and doctoral degrees in mathematics from the University of Tennessee.
He teaches entry and upper-level math courses, including Calculus I and II, at Lander, and uses a variety of texts and homework platforms where applicable to make course materials more affordable for students. “When appropriate, I strive to make this an option for my courses,” he said.
A mentor to students and their research, Worley has studies in peer-reviewed journals, including several in review and preparation for publication. “Teaching is my main calling to higher education, as it is for many of my colleagues,” he said, adding that he strives to prepare his students to graduate with a degree that will prepare them to enter their respective careers either in the workforce or in academia.
“I endeavor to cultivate an inclusive and engaging learning environment within my classroom … By fostering an atmosphere conducive to open dialogue and inquiry, I aim to ignite students’ passion for mathematics,” Worley said.
Heather C. Bennett, Moore Award for Excellence in General Education Teaching
For Heather C. Bennett, a lecturer in Lander’s Department of Psychological Science and Human Services, “teaching has fulfilled one untapped skill that I now know is part of my calling. I absolutely love learning.”
Bennett, a forensic interviewer and therapist at Beyond Abuse in Greenwood, joined Lander as an adjunct faculty member in 2020. A licensed professional counselor and a member of the South Carolina Counseling Association, Bennett earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Anderson University and a master’s degree in counseling from Winthrop University.
Named Part-Time Faculty Member of the Year in 2022 at Lander, Bennett was recognized by the Partnership among South Carolina Academic Libraries (PASCAL) with the Professor for Affordable Learning Award for helping keep required materials for students at low or no cost to them.
It was during her undergraduate and graduate school years that Bennett said she grew in knowledge and held internships and assistantships that laid a foundation and enhanced her desire to help and educate people.
“Working with the population of college students has inspired me and continues to deepen my love of teaching and helping provide guidance to students as they enter the professional workforce,” Bennett said. “I continue to utilize education and have taught in many different facets, including at Lander and throughout the community.”