Tarleton’s Cummings recognized for work in and out of the classroom

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 21, 2009

STEPHENVILLE, TEXAS—When Dr. Hennen Cummings from Tarleton State University found out he had received the Barry B. Thompson Service Award, he was out in the trenches.

Well, actually the turf grass plots.

“I was very surprised to see Dr. Dottavio walking up to the turf plots,” Cummings said. “I thought two things could be going on and one of them was bad.”

But it wasn’t bad news. President F. Dominic Dottavio was there to present Cummings, an assistant professor of agribusiness, agronomy, horticulture and range management, with the service award, which was created in 1997 to recognize faculty members who go beyond the classroom in their dedication to the university and their students.

Cummings is dedicated to his students in and out of the classroom and serves as an active adviser of the Tarleton Turfgrass Society.

“It is my belief that Dr. Cummings exemplifies what it means to be a student mentor rather than just another content-centered faculty member,” said Dr. Roger Wittie, department head and fellow professor. “He also leads by example in that he actively volunteers his time and expertise to the campus and local community.”

Leslie Beck, one of Cummings’ graduate students since 2004, spoke about how he provides the best college experience for each of his students.

“Dr. Cummings is not only my teacher and my mentor; he is my friend,” she said. “The knowledge he has provided both inside the classroom and out has helped me face the future outside of Tarleton State University with confidence and excitement.”

Cummings holds bachelor’s degrees from the University of North Carolina and North Carolina State University. He also received his master’s and doctorate degrees from North Carolina State University.

He is not only helpful to students, but also to his colleagues.

“Professor Cummings is well-known and respected for his advocacy of student learning and advising outside the classroom,” said Dr. Randy Rosiere, professor of range management. “Dr. Cummings is certainly eager to assist any of us—inside or outside of class or any other time and place where duty calls. When ready access and willingness to help are of paramount importance, Professor Cummings is one who is sought out.”

Cummings also is involved in the campus community by serving on the faculty senate, faculty development committee, curriculum edit review committee and several search committees.

Outside of the classroom, he’s played on a student softball team; taken students to Turfgrass Field Days in Dallas, College Station and Bell County Research Stations; organized trips to the Byron Nelson Golf Tournament and holds a campfire at the end of the semester to honor graduating seniors.

Cummings says he is honored to receive the award.

‘It is great to get recognized for working so closely with students in extracurricular activities,” he said. “Anyone would like to feel appreciated by their students, and students do not always show their appreciation outwardly.”

-30-

Return to press releases