by Krissy Proctor
There remains much idle talk among the student body about the identity of this publication’s last anonymous professor, a man whom a majority of voters on the home page believe to be one Michael Palmer, associate professor of communication arts. On whom will the next installment of this feature bring its focus?
This professor is most often described by faculty and students as passionate. Always ready to speak on his favorite subject, which cannot be revealed, he frequently finds himself a referee in his classes as the discussion matter provokes students into open conversation and debate. However, this professor wouldn’t have it any other way.
“It’s fun to hear people give a defense of their beliefs, or sit back, not because I’m the greatest teacher, but say ‘I really have to think about that’, and that leaves an opportunity for ministry. It’s kind of cool.” He says.
When this professor came to Bryan, he was still busy finishing his dissertation and was encouraged by a faculty member to come for an interview anyway. He considers it a sign of God’s providence that he is here today.
This professor has respect for all of the Bryan faculty and staff, but especially those in his department.
“There are too many divisions across the country…where it becomes a purely cognitive and intellectual deal,” he says. “I challenge people, ‘look at the lives of the guys in the division’. It’s not just a solid application of intellectualism, and these guys are at the top of their field, but there is a heart [for] compassion and ministry.”
“And we have more fun than anybody on campus.” He adds.
His two favorite parts about teaching are being able to make students “think” (failing at this means you might be “snapped like a twig”), and helping students when they find themselves facing struggles.
His only disappointment at Bryan is being unable to cheer on a football team, a favorite sport of his due to the “collegiate spirit” it provides to its players. He is more than content, though, to participate in basketball, a game he does well in, some rumors suggest.
Hobbies include reading and collecting timepieces. Favorite books include the classic answer, God’s Word, and the “Ragamuffin Gospel” by Brennan Manning, a text he believes every freshman should be required to read.
“It changed my life…it’s absolutely incredible.” He says.
Other hallmark traits of this professor, according to his many friends, are concern for students, interest in their spiritual formation, orderliness and honesty. He is known to heavily employ the Socratic Method, power points and the use of personal experiences in his lectures.
His goal for his students is for them to be able to think biblically and critically, and for them to develop a heart for those who have been neglected by society.
Tags: Ragamuffin Gospel, Brennan Manning, Guess Who