Contributed to the Telegram

Nominated as an outstanding educator for three years in a row, Shilo Lawrence, a math and science faculty member at Nash Community College, is the recipient of the 2008 J. Edgar and Peggie T. Moore Excellence in Teaching Award.

The Excellence in Teaching Award nominees are chosen through a peer and a student evaluation process from all full-time faculty members each year.

There is a well-defined set of criteria used to identify and reward quality teaching in the award process.

The recipient is chosen by secret ballot by the full-time faculty and represents the "best" in community college instruction.

Lawrence received her master's degree in mathematics from N.C. State University, a bachelor's degree in mathematics from Greensboro College and an associate degree in math and science from Tompkins Courtland Community College.

In an essay to the faculty required for the selection process, Lawrence wrote, "The students are why we are here! I truly believe this and take it to heart every time I hear it. I have known since I was in the eleventh grade that I wanted to teach math. Then, when I attended a community college, I knew this was where I wanted to teach."

Her dedication to students was one of the reasons cited for Lawrence's selection by her peers.

"Every one of us is here to teach, so I don't think it needs to be said that I love to teach, and that this is exactly where I want to be until I retire," she said.

As the 2008 recipient of the award, Lawrence received a cash award from Ed and Peggie Moore and recently served as Faculty Marshal for the college's graduation programs.

She will also represent Nash Community College in the statewide North Carolina Community College System's Excellence in Teaching Award process.

Lawrence began her career at Nash Community College in August 2004. She lives in Youngsville with her husband, Jim and son, Gradin.