A Columbia International University professor described as caring deeply about his students has been honored with an Excellence in Teaching Award.  Professor of English Dr. Steve Baarendse received the recognition at the annual awards dinner of the South Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities (SCICU) in April.

The award is given to professors who “demonstrate the highest standards of teaching that encourage students to strive for excellence in their studies and intellectual pursuits.” Each recipient is chosen by their institution according to rigorous criteria and receive a certificate and a $3,000 grant for professional development.

Baarendse has been a faculty member since 2001. He says his favorite classes to teach are: Literature and Research, Five Great Novels, Arts and Ideas, Classics in Literature, and Shakespeare.

His colleagues say Baarendse is always seeking ways to be more effective in the classroom and to improve student learning. Students also appreciate the personal interest he takes in them outside of the classroom, as lunchtime often finds him engaging with students in the dining hall.

Baarendse holds a Ph.D. in Comparative Literature from the University of South Carolina, Master of Arts degrees in Art History and Comparative Literature from Indiana University, and a Bachelor of Arts from Taylor University.

Become a Humanities major and learn from Dr. Steve Baarendse. Information on CIU programs and enrollment is available here or call (800) 777-2227, ext. 5024. CIU is experiencing growth in enrollment and has announced $25 million in expansion plans for the campus. CIU is accredited by SACS-COC.