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Posted: 2/04/98

A&M International Professor is Named 'Scholar of the Year' for College of Arts & Humanities

 

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Dr. Todd T. Russell, associate professor of psychology at Texas A&M International University, was recently selected as the "Scholar of the Year" in the University's College of Arts and Humanities.

Dr. Jerry Thompson, dean of the College of Arts and Humanities, and Dr. Julio Madrigal, chairman of the Psychology Department, presented Russell the award at the end of one of his undergraduate classes.

"The 'Scholar of the Year' award is more than being a scholar, it requires excellent teaching skills and community service. Even though Dr. Russell lives in Cotulla, he is active in the counseling circle in Laredo, and his teaching evaluations are among the best in the college. He is very popular with students and fellow faculty members," Thompson said.

Russell, a former associate professor of counseling programs at California State University, joined Texas A&M International University in Sept. 1994. He holds a doctorate degree in psychology, a master's degree in counseling psychology and a bachelor's degree with honors in psychology, all from the University of Oregon.

Prior to becoming associate professor at California State University, Russell was an adjunct professor of special education and counseling programs at the Department of Educational Psychology of the same institution.

Besides being an active academic for nearly 20 years, Russell has won various awards and honors. Among recognitions he has received are the "Certification of Appreciation Award" from the National Association for Counselor Education and Supervision, the "Certificate of Appreciation Award" from the Western Association for Counselor Education and Supervision and the "Who's Who in Human Services Professions" (Aug. 1987).

Currently, Russell serves on several committees at the University, including the Curriculum Committee, Thompson said.

Thompson explained that a committee of three chairpersons and two faculty members selected Russell from among five candidates.

Russell is now one of four candidates for the "University Scholar of the Year," an award to be announced at the Spring Commencement Ceremony, Thompson said.

"Dr. Russell's scholarship, teaching and community service are top notch. He is the kind of teacher and scholar that we strive to attract to the University. We are very fortunate to have someone of his caliber in this college," Thompson said.

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