Honors College

When it comes to online learning, GCU’s faculty have established a reputation of being some of the most sought-after thought-leaders in presenting and publishing their scholarly work. Between 2012 and 2017, they led 163 presentations, and their work was featured in 138 publications. GCU are the innovators, said Rick Holbeck, Executive Director of Online Full-Time Faculty.

The Honors college hosted an Amazing Race Leadership Retreat where they competed in small groups in physical, critical thinking and team building challenges. The race followed the structure of the “Amazing Race” reality competition show in which typically eleven teams of two race around the world. Students used clues to navigate through challenges and then worked together manage their time and earn points.   

The National Society of Collegiate Scholars at GCU participated in Integrity Week this month. NSCS’ integrity initiative was inspired by a national ethics project created by the Association of College Honor Societies. Members are challenged to demonstrate their true commitment to integrity on college campuses through taking a pledge. At GCU, even President Brian Mueller took the pledge. 

Everyone on the Grand Canyon University campus is invited to the Dr. Kevin McClean Research Colloquium, scheduled for 3:30 p.m. Wednesday in Building 57, rooms 221-223. There will be eight presentations demonstrating research done by GCU faculty.

The College of Doctoral Studies achieved a milestone by approving the school’s 500th dissertation, and as it turns out, it’s by one of GCU’s own. After some investigating, we found out the author of that dissertation is faculty member Melissa Beddow, who wrote about “The Portrayal of DNA Testing in the Forensics Crime Show ‘Bones.'”

Lift up the eggnog. It was a blizzard of holiday cheer these past few weeks as employees turned up their Christmas decorating acumen to unprecedented, spirited levels with Christmas decorating and ugly sweater contests. Story.

The commencement speaker Friday, Dr. Rick Rigsby, spoke about his third-grade dropout father and the impact his simple — but profound — words of wisdom have made on his life. Typical of what Rigsby passed on to his audience: “Look at me, graduates. Don’t ever show up on time. That’s mediocre. That’s basic minimum required. Show up early.”

At the Dinner with Grads on Tuesday night, Honors STEMists had the opportunity to connect with a multitude of Grand Canyon University alumni and representatives from medical schools across Arizona. “Making connections, gaining information, networking – that’s going to be valuable when they go to apply for medical school,” said Emily Ghena, Honors College liaison intern. “These students are exactly the kind of students graduate schools want to have so I think it’s a win for both sides.”

Esteemed leaders from Grand Canyon University and the community shared the same stage Monday to engage in a conversation about Christian values and advancements in technology. “We, the people, have common ground in which to figure out solutions to these dilemmas,” said Dr. Sherman Elliot, dean of GCU’s College of Humanities and Social Sciences. “What a way to be empowered right now.”

The Grand Canyon University Alpha Chi National Honors Society induction ceremony on Saturday, honored 55 new members who have exemplified the highest academic achievement and commitment. “These students put in so much time, energy and effort and they don’t always know that recognition is going to come from that – so to be able to stop and recognize that work is very meaningful to them and their families,” said Breanna Naegeli, Assistant Dean at the Honors College.