Keith Ringer, Newberry College Professor, Achieves Excellence in Teaching Award
COLUMBIA
– Keith W. Ringer ’84, a professor of political science and public & nonprofit administration at Newberry College, has been distinguished as the 2024 SCICU Excellence in Teaching award winner. Ringer was acknowledged alongside his family at a celebratory banquet on April 9, hosted by the South Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities.
Dedication and Passion
“It is an honor and privilege to work with such a talented and dedicated faculty and staff. I’ve been very fortunate to not only be a graduate, but to be able to give something back to the College,” confided Ringer, expressing his dedication and passion for teaching. “I get to teach my students not only the theory but also include real-world applications of concepts we discuss in the classroom. I have been truly blessed to be afforded the opportunity to watch my students grow and flourish not only in the classroom, but in their professional careers and lives. That is my reward.”
Vast Experience and Achievements
Ringer came on board in the Newberry College faculty in 1992. Over the years, he has taught a wide range of courses including American government, public budgeting, nonprofit and non-governmental organizations, public and nonprofit administration, and personnel management to name but a few. Ringer’s outstanding teachings draw on his extensive experience spanning his 30-years long service as a program manager for the South Carolina Department of Education, and a noteworthy five-year stint as executive director of the nonprofit South Carolina Purchasing Alliance. Ringer’s academic contributions also include his thorough research into the effect of leadership within the House Ways and Means Committee on the budgetary process in the South Carolina state government.
A Legacy of Excellence
What sets Ringer apart is his relentless commitment to his students. He gathers much pride and satisfaction in prepping his students for success; this includes helping them secure internships, writing letters of recommendation for law, graduate schools, and various career positions. Such commitment to student’s success has also gained Ringer recognition within the college, earning him certificates for outstanding vision and service to the Newberry College in both 2021 and 2022.
As a testament to Newberry College’s recognized education system, Ringer himself is a proud heritage graduate, making it a family tradition, by being the second of three generations of Newberry College graduates. Ringer earned his bachelor’s degree in political science and history from Newberry in 1984 and later obtained a Master of Public Administration from the University of South Carolina.
Source: HERE News Network
