SALISBURY — Rowan-Cabarrus Community College announced its 2019-20 Excellence in Teaching award recipients at a recent board meeting.

The award recognizes faculty who go above and beyond expected levels of instruction and improving education excellence as demonstrated by student outcomes.

During the 2018-19 academic year, Aaron Tallman was a full-time graphic design instructor. Before his time at the college, he taught graphic design, graphic arts, photography and continuing education classes as an adjunct instructor at Catawba Valley Community College for eight years, in addition to industry and freelance work. Tallman is also the Rowan-Cabarrus nominee for the North Carolina Community College System R.J. Reynolds Excellence in Teaching Award.

Tallman holds an associate of applied science degree in graphic arts and imaging technology from Catawba Valley college in Hickory.

“Using my passion for teaching, technology, engaging and inspiring students, and all things creative, I strive to create a learning environment for my students to feel both successful and confident as they prepare to move forward with their careers and studies,” said Tallman.

Jessica Parker, the part-time recipient, holds a bachelor of science degree in biology from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, where she was also a North Carolina Teaching Fellow, and a master’s in science education from East Carolina University.

Parker has been an adjunct biotechnology and life sciences instructor at Rowan-Cabarrus since 2014. She teaches general biology and anatomy/physiology course labs. She is also a full-time science teacher with Cabarrus County schools. Her high school teaching experience includes marine science, physical science, environmental science, earth science and biology.

“My professional passions include all things science and removing barriers to student success in science classes at all educational levels,” said Parker.

Parker is a dog mom to a Yorkie and Labrador, and outside the classroom, she enjoys travel, family and baseball.

Students initiate the nomination process for this award annually by recommending instructors. Students then vote for their favorites. Final nominees are required to submit a portfolio and letters of recommendation and undergo an unannounced, filmed observation.

“Rowan-Cabarrus Community College has a long and proud tradition of hiring highly qualified and dedicated faculty in all of its academic programs,” said Michael Quillen, vice president of academic programs. “The faculty members selected for this year’s Excellence in Teaching Awards certainly are representative of this tradition. These faculty members, and many others, do a wonderful job of providing high-quality instruction to the students at Rowan-Cabarrus.”