Two professors from Campbell University’s School of Engineering have been named KEEN Faculty Fellows, accounting for 7 percent of the 27 total fellowships awarded nationwide this year.
The Kern Entrepreneurial Engineering Network’s Engineering Unleashed Fellowship — which recognizes leadership in undergraduate education — added Dr. Jacqueline Gartner and Dr. Tim Shenk to its distinguished list. Both Gartner and Shenk are assistant professors specializing in chemical engineering.
“We are thrilled that the outstanding work of our faculty to create innovative learning experiences continues to be recognized at the national level,” said Dr. Jenna Carpenter, founding dean of the School of Engineering. “Our philosophy of hands-on, project-based engineering education aligns with KEEN’s emphasis on sparking students’ curiosity, helping them see connections, and equipping them to create value. We are honored to be a KEEN partner institution.”
Both professors will have the opportunity to take part in advanced project work, and the School will receive two $10,000 grants to go toward their projects and help support other programs and costs.
For Shenk, that means further developing his project of teaching students concepts of thermal radiation, or the transfer of heat by use of electromagnetic waves.
“To become a fellow, it requires incorporating a new mindset — how do I better engage with my students to develop their curiosity?” Shenk said. “How do I help them make connections to the world around them? How do I create value in the work they’re doing and the products they’re producing? This fellowship helps us develop new skills and incorporate them in our teaching. It’s helping us become better professors, and it’s been stunningly helpful.”
Gartner, who received the School’s Dean’s Award for Excellence in Teaching in 2020, said the fellowships recognize Campbell’s approach to hands-on learning.
“Recognition as a KEEN Fellow shows they identify and value Campbell’s curriculum and pedagogical approach to undergraduate education,” she said. “And they are excited about the work we are doing in the engineering classroom.”