Fulbright College Announces Connor Faculty Fellows

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Sandra and Robert Connor

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – The J. William Fulbright College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Arkansas recently selected its 2012 class of Connor Faculty Fellows. Ten outstanding assistant professors were awarded this honor and given funds to support their career advancement in recognition of the outstanding teaching, research and service they provide to the college.

“This year’s recipients demonstrate the breadth and depth of our faculty’s contributions to the university,” said Robin Roberts, dean of Fulbright College. “We are honored to have outstanding faculty members who educate our students. Together, our faculty and students uphold the mission of the college and the legacy of Senator Fulbright. The success of these recipients reflects their individual achievements and the high standards of our departments and programs.”

Robert and Sandra Connor of Little Rock established the Connor Endowed Faculty Fellowship in 2004 to provide essential faculty development opportunities to rising academic experts in the college. Annually, a college committee including the dean designates up to 10 assistant professors who have made excellent contributions to the college and their department. The award is used to facilitate travel, expand research initiatives and support classroom experiences.

Fulbright College proudly announces this year’s class of Connor Faculty Fellows:

• Sabrina Billings, assistant professor of African and African American studies
• Liang Cai, assistant professor of history
• Jingyi Chen, assistant professor of chemistry and biochemistry
• Gregory Dumond, assistant professor of geosciences
• Jennifer Hoyer, assistant professor of German
• Martin Nedbal, assistant professor of music
• Patrick Stewart, assistant professor of political science
• Kim Strauss, assistant professor of social work
• Fang-Zhen Teng, assistant professor of geosciences
• Xiangyang "Cheyenne" Xie, assistant professor of geosciences