Dr. Benjamin Sloop, Professor of Mathematics, is the 2017 recipient of the Archie Vernon and Margaret Wannamaker Huff Faculty Award. The award is given to a Spartanburg Methodist College faculty member who exemplifies outstanding professional qualifications and teaching ability. Sloop was presented with the award during the college’s Commencement Exercises on Saturday, May 6.

Sloop was recognized for his innovative teaching practices, which include using video lectures for students to review ahead of class, preparing a lecture and note-taking guide and teaching a linked course with biology as part of SMC’s learning community, said Ann Bowles, Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs and Student Development.

“Student evaluations of Dr. Sloop’s courses reflect their appreciation of his organization, positive and enthusiastic attitude, encouragement and challenges and willingness to help students outside of class,” Bowles said. “Dr. Sloop is a valuable member of the campus community, and we are pleased to honor him.”

The Huff Award includes an $800 stipend for further study, travel for professional purposes or to defray the cost of publication expenses for scholarly work.

Sloop holds a B.A. in mathematical science, M.Ed. in mathematics education, M.S. in mathematics science and a Ph.D. in mathematics education from Clemson University.

In 1970, Dr. A. V. Huff, Jr., a former member of the SMC Board of Trustees and a retired faculty member of the History Department at Furman University, along with his wife, Kate, established the endowed award in memory of his parents, Archie Vernon and Margaret Wannamaker Huff.