Dr. Elizabeth (“Jody”) Natalle, associate professor of communication studies, was awarded the 2019 Lloyd Rohler Career Teaching Award from the Carolinas Communication Association (CCA) for “demonstrating excellent teaching throughout her career.”
Natalle has been a member of CCA for 34 years, a past president, and an active faculty mentor who has regularly sponsored student research presentations at the annual conference.
The award was presented at the 2019 conference held in Hilton Head, SC, the last weekend in September.
“My objective when teaching is to facilitate the student’s critical development as a communicator, as a citizen, and as an independent problem-solver,” Natalle said. “Using the knowledge of our field, I am all about sharing that knowledge so that a student can achieve communication competence, active participation as a citizen, and has the ability to approach life with problem-solving skills. “
What brings her the most joy in teaching? “When a student is able to own the knowledge of the field and become an independent learner. Then I know they are set for life. When the light bulb goes on, you just know that you did your job as the teacher-facilitator. It’s the joy of ‘paying it forward.'”
By Mike Harris
Photography by Jiyoung Park
