USF faculty earn promotions
Three University of St. Francis faculty members received promotions. They were honored May 5 at the university’s annual Honors and Awards Convocation. Promotions were presented by University of St. Francis President Michael Vinciguerra.
Les Cox of Shorewood was promoted to associate professor of psychology. He was noted for being a reflective and evolving teacher, a dedicated advisor, participant in university and community activities and an active scholar. Cox recently completed his doctorate in clinical psychology, and is using his expertise in the academic and social implications of alcohol and marijuana use among undergraduate students. He is also working to design a criminal and social justice major to be offered at USF.
Cox joined the University of St. Francis faculty in 1993. He holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree from George Williams College and a Ph.D. from Adler School of Professional Psychology.
MeShelda Jackson of Bolingbrook was promoted to associate professor of education. She was noted for her ability to develop professional relationships with her students. She excels in field-based instruction where she has established partnerships with local school districts, which allows students to connect theory to practice as they make applications of the course content in authentic settings. Jackson is the coordinator of the special education program and completely redesigned the major to be aligned with the new Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) standards. Because of her work, USF is recognized by the state as a leader in special education program development.
Jackson joined the USF faculty in 1998. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Alabama A and M University, a master’s degree from Nova University and a Ph.D. from the University of Pittsburgh.
Gaile Nellett of Marseilles, Ill. was promoted to associate professor of nursing. Nellett’s was rated for excellence in teaching. She is an active participant in university committees. She has been active in enlarging her professional expertise in gerontology and in evidence-based practice.
Nellett has created new courses and holds professional memberships. She has presented her work in poster sessions and published several articles in professional journals and area newspapers.
Nellett joined the USF faculty in 1998. She holds a B.S.N. from Governors State University, a M.S.N. and Ph.D. from Loyola University of Chicago.
The University of St. Francis is at 500 Wilcox St. in Joliet. The Catholic, Franciscan university serves 4,300 students nationwide. The university offers more than 60 areas of undergraduate study, including arts and sciences, education, nursing and business. Eleven graduate programs in health care, business and education are offered.