By Robert Stephens | Photos by Scott Cook
Guiding Greatness At Rollins, our professors are equal parts knowledgeable and fascinating, providing personalized attention to students both in and outside the classroom while becoming mentors, research partners, and lifelong guides. Our expert professors are a lot of things. They’re distinguished researchers and esteemed scholars. They’re sci-fi superfans, Broadway composers, and medieval masters. They also recently earned Rollins the ranking of No. 1 in the South for its exceptional commitment to teaching undergraduates. But students are more likely to call them “mentors” and “collaborators” because of their uncommon knacks for bringing subjects to life, connecting learning Pulling the futuristic world closer to home The mind of chemistry professor Ellane Park is full of wonder. For example: Could science fiction ever be real science? So she challenges her students to explore the possibilities of nanoparticles and wearable technology, discovering firsthand that what is unrealistic today could make the world better tomorrow. Introducing an all-star lineup Sometimes a surprise guest will appear in music professor Jamey Ray’s class. He does, after all, boast an impressive roster of connections, having worked with everyone from the London Symphony Orchestra to Broadway performers. His students produce, write, compose, and become versatile enough to make music a career. He knows because he’s done it all. 24 | ROLLINS
to the real world, and inspiring them to chart their own changemaking course to a meaningful life and productive career. Through our small, discussion-based classes, one-on-one advising sessions, and impromptu conversations on everything from Fortnite’s latest marketing campaign to the ethics of self-driving cars, our inventive faculty and industrious students give new meaning to the words “engaged learning.”
