Dr. Todd Russell Named University Scholar of the Year

Dr. Todd Russell, associate professor of psychology at Texas A&M International University, has been named University Scholar of the Year.

The announcement was made during the University's Spring 1998 Commencement ceremonies. Dr. Russell received a golden medallion which he will wear as part of his academic regalia. He will also receive a small stipend and a designated reserved parking space for one year.

Russell, who has been in academia for nearly 20 years, joined the faculty of A&M International in September 1994. He holds three degrees from the University of Oregon, a doctorate degree in psychology, a master's degree in counseling psychology and a bachelor's degree with honors in psychology.

He has received numerous awards and honors including 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 has been recognized in Who's Who in Human Services Professions.

Russell was one of four candidates for the University Scholar of the Year award. Each candidate had been named College Scholar of the Year by one of the University's four colleges. Russell represented the College of Arts and Humanities.

College Scholars of the Year for the University's three other colleges were: Dr. James R. Giermanski, professor of management, College of Business Administration; Dr. Idalia Rodriguez, associate professor of bilingual education, College of Education; and Dr. Sushma Krishnamurthy, assistant professor of biology, College of Science and Technology.

College Scholar of the Year recipients were selected by a College Selection Committee appointed by the respective deans. Selections were based on the candidate's teaching, scholarship, service and collegiality, and student and peer evaluations.

The University Scholar of the Year was named by a selection committee that was chaired by Dr. Larry Boyd, provost and vice president for academic affairs.

The College Scholar of the Year Award and University Scholar of the Year award were developed by the University's faculty organization, the Faculty Senate, to annually recognize outstanding professionalism among the members of the University faculty.

For more information on A&M International's University Scholar of the Year award, contact the Office of Public Affairs at 326. 2180.

University office hours are 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday - Friday.

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Affairs and Information Services at pais@tamiu.edu