March 8, 2021
Erin Yelland and Joel Matthews recognized as Professors of the Week
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Erin Yelland, left, and Joel Matthews, were recently recognized as the Professors of the Week. |
Erin Yelland, assistant professor of adult development and aging representing K-State Research and Extension in the applied human sciences department, and Joel Matthews, a psychology instructor in the School of Integrated Studies at Kansas State University Polytechnic Campus, were recognized as the Professors of the Week at the March 6 men's home basketball game. Faculty Senate, the Office of the President, K-State Athletics and the Division Communications and Marketing wish to recognize these individuals' contributions to K-State.
Yelland's extension and research program is focused on enhancing the health and wellness of Kansans across the lifespan to promote optimal aging. Her strong research- and evidence-based outreach focuses on statewide and regional needs assessments, environmental scans, and stakeholder input. Since she began her career at K-State in 2015, she has authored multiple complete extension curricula, including one that has reached more than 1,500 K-State students. She has chaired, co-chaired, or served on 10 master's and two doctoral committees to completion and currently serves on an additional 12 master's committees. She co-founded/co-chaired the North Central Region Aging Network and co-chaired the Adult Development and Aging Workgroup within the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Yelland received the Horizon Extension Award from K-State Research and Extension for her early-career performance, enthusiasm, and accomplishments. She was selected by the K-State Center for Engagement and Community Development in the first cohort of Civic Engagement Fellows.
Matthews is the winner of the 2020 Marchbanks Memorial Award for Teaching Excellence, which recognizes a faculty member’s commitment in the classroom, service to students and overall merit as a teacher. Matthews began his K-State Polytechnic teaching career in 1995 as a part-time instructor. In 2002, he advanced to a full-time position and currently teaches General Psychology, Psychology of Religion, Abnormal Psychology and Professional Conduct, Ethics and Analysis. Before joining K-State, Matthews spent 12 years as a full-time licensed psychotherapist and has maintained his professional licensure since 1990. Matthews considers a well-rounded education to be valuable and enjoys helping students broaden their horizons. He focuses on making connections and enhancing self-awareness. Matthews believes a quality education sparks personal growth.