Dr. Terrell Tebbetts talks about his career, Batesville history and the power of the written word on the “Career Pathways” podcast.
Dr. Terrell L. Tebbetts (pictured), the Martha Heasley Cox Professor of American Literature at the University of Lyon, appeared as a guest on a recent episode of the University of Lyon’s “Career Pathways” podcast (click here to watch on YouTube).
In this episode, Tebbetts shares personal stories and insights from his 54-year career at the University of Lyon and reflects on his time as a professor and community leader.
Throughout the podcast, Tebbetts discusses his career journey, the art of teaching English composition and literature, and the enduring value of learning how to write well. He also shares his passion for poetry, offers readings from important literary works, and provides a historical perspective on his lifelong home in Batesville.
Jason Nichols, an English major and producer of “Career Pathways,” moderated the conversation. Patrick Lynch, director of Lyon College’s Career and Professional Development Center and advisor for the podcast, said he was impressed by the impact Dr. Tebbetts has had on generations of students.
“Dr. Tebbetts’ commitment to his students, his work, and the Lyon community is extraordinary,” Lynch said. “His dedication to nurturing great writers and thinkers has shaped countless careers, and we’re thrilled to have him on the podcast to share his journey.”
Reflecting on his longstanding connection to the University of Lyon, Tebbetts said, “I know that God created me to be a teacher and led me to Lyon. I feel most like myself when I’m working with students.”
Professor Tebbetts has been a pillar of the Lyon College English Department for over 50 years and has received numerous awards, including the Williamson Outstanding Faculty Award, has been named Professor of the Year by students four times, and was named Arkansas Professor of the Year in 1992 by the Council for the Advancement of Teaching and the Carnegie Foundation.
A distinguished scholar, Mr. Tebbetts has published more than 40 articles on American literature in such prestigious journals as Philological Review, Christianity & Literature, and The Faulkner Journal. His poetry has appeared in Whole Notes and Voices International.
Outside of the classroom, Mr. Tebbetts has made significant contributions to the state and the Batesville community through his leadership roles with the Arkansas Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities and the Batesville Historic District Commission. His dedication to service has led to recognition including the Batesville Citizen of the Year Award and the Independence County Heritage Award.
Produced by Lyon College students and staff, the “Career Pathways” podcast features alumni, faculty and experts talking about their career journeys, offering insight and advice to aspiring students and professionals. Current and past episodes are available at https://www.lyon.edu/career-pathways-podcast.
Image courtesy of University of Lyon
Have a news tip or event you’d like to promote? Email White River Now at news@whiterivernow.com , like and follow us on Facebook and Twitter , and don’t forget to download the White River Now mobile app from the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store .
Get the latest local and regional news/weather weekday mornings and afternoons from the First Community Bank of Arkansas newsroom on 103.3 KWOZ. White River Now updates also air weekday mornings on 93 KZLE, Outlaw 106.5 and Your FM 99.5.
