Dr. Mary Sue MacNealy, a University of Memphis English professor, was chosen by the Society for Technical Communication as recipient of the Jay R. Gould teaching award for 2002.
According to a press release by the STC, the award “honors excellence in teaching that becomes true academic mentorship.”
MacNealy has been a member of The U of M English department since 1988 and was named coordinator of the professional writing program during the fall of 2001.
“The award was a total surprise and honor. It was given by an international organization with about 20,000 members,” MacNealy said. “I was nominated by one of my former students and several letters were sent to the organization by current students. I am very grateful to all of my students.”
In order to receive the award, the nominee is required to have been a member of the STC for 10 years or more and been involved with post-secondary education for a minimum of 15 years. According to the press release, winners of this award also provide mentorship for students. Winners enrich their students’ experiences during education and continue to provide influence during students’ professional careers.
In order to avoid the apathy that some professors begin to experience after teaching for many years, MacNealy said she takes a fresh approach to teaching by challenging students in an unconventional manner.
“Sometimes a goofy example works better than the typically expected ones,” MacNealy said.
In addition to taking an unusual approach to her teaching, MacNealy also works to make certain that she remains in touch with her field by reading scholarly articles and attending conferences pertaining to the field of English.
MacNealy does not only read research, she is also a researcher.
According to the press release, her second book — Empirical Research in Writing — is used in writing programs nationwide.
During her time with the STC, MacNealy has received two Distinguished Chapter Service Awards as well as honors for three journal articles. She has been active with the organization, serving as treasurer of the Mid-South chapter, and has also been involved with fundraising efforts for a professional writing scholarship.
According to the press release, MacNealy will receive the award during the 49th annual International STC conference, which will be held in Nashville this May.
