Jacksonville State University professor J. Gordon Nelson was invited by the International Center at Wuhan University, Hubei Province, China, to participate in the JSU-Wuhan Exchange Program in May. This unique program was initiated by professor of sociology Dr. Adrian Aveni, who, along with his family, spent two years as a Fulbright Scholar at Wuhan University during 1991-93.
Dr. Nelson’s host professor was Dr. Wang Biyun, associate professor in the School of Education and deputy director of Education Research Evaluation Center.
Dr. Nelson taught classes in educational technology and was asked to give a presentation to faculty and students on “Western Higher Education: Trends, Options, and Faculty Evaluation Procedures.”
Of special interest to the Wuhan faculty as well as the students were the Distance Learning Program developed by Dr. Franklin King and Dr. Sherri Restori, the use of LiveText Portfolios which were developed by Dr. Donna Herring, and the use of an Evaluation Rubric for tenure and promotion developed by Dr. Kathleen Friery, all JSU faculty members.
“Jacksonville Night at Wuhan” was held on May 15 at a campus restaurant to honor Dr. and Mrs. Nelson.
Almost all the professors who have come to JSU in the past were present.
The Wuhan professors had been invited several times to the Nelsons’ home for dinner while at JSU. Marsha Nelson was also present.
This program has been supported by JSU president Dr. Bill Meehan, vice president for Academic and Student Affairs Dr. Rebecca Turner, associate vice president for Academic Affairs Dr. Joe Delap, dean of the College of Education and Professional Studies Cynthia Harper and director of the International House program Dr. Jay Ketterer.
Dr. Nelson and his wife were asked to bring greetings to friends in Jacksonville.
Each professor present wanted to express his gratitude for the warm welcome and helpful and caring support they received, both from JSU faculty and staff, as well as many others in the Jacksonville community.
