Current Recipient

M. Lyn Exum, Associate PRofessor and Associate Chair

Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology

Exum, an associate professor and associate chair of the Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology, is known for his contagious enthusiasm. He is a one-of-a-kind educator who shapes students into their best critical-thinking selves.

“I believe that teaching is not limited to a 16-week semester or a nine-month contract,” said Exum. “It is a lifelong commitment to mentorship. When I work with students, I want my words to encourage them along their journey, redirect them when they are not giving their best effort and challenge them to explore new paths that they may not have considered before.”

Michael Turner, chair of criminology and criminal justice, stated, “Over the course of his teaching career, Exum has exemplified genuine dedication to working with undergraduate and graduate students. This dedication has resulted in innovative strategies employed within the classroom, impactful curricular changes and positive teaching evaluations. Exum is truly dedicated to his commitment to challenging and educating students.”