First-Year Seminar (FYS)

Fall 2025

Building Tomorrow: A Path to Sustainable Future   

Dr. Bahy Abdelmesih 

Do you want to learn about actions aimed at eradicating poverty, protecting the planet, and ensuring prosperity for all? This course will explore the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are considered a universal call to address the contemporary problems facing humans. We will examine the social, environmental, and economic dimensions of sustainable development, while exploring strategies to promote long-term solutions to global issues such as climate change, inequality, and resource depletion. Through case studies and discussions, participants will develop the skills needed to contribute meaningfully to the global sustainable development agenda, advancing the principles of equity, justice, and sustainability.

Dr. Bahy Abdelmesih is an assistant professor of energy, innovation, and sustainable technology. He joined the Department of Environment and Sustainability (ENV) in 2022. He completed his Ph.D. in Solar energy at University of Lleida in Spain. He obtained his MSc. degree in renewable energy from University of Oldenburg in Germany. As an undergraduate, he received his BSc. degree in Physics from the American University in Cairo in Egypt. Dr. Abdelmesih is developing a green technology concentration/minor at ENV. His research interests revolve around solar energy, wind energy data modeling, and seawater desalination using renewable energy technologies.

Hoofbeats, Hearts, and Minds      

Prof. Laura Collander     

"There is something about the outside of a horse that is good for the inside of a man." Winston Churchill

Horses can hear a heartbeat up to 4 feet away and can read the intention and emotion of a human being in a split second. We will explore how horses can help humans understand the importance of nonverbal communication and tapping into one’s intentions. Horses are incredibly intuitive animals who mirror the energy and intention of the humans working with them. Because of their pure reactions to humans, they are excellent teachers. In this seminar, we will learn how horses communicate with one another and with humans. We will read and learn about different programs, including prison rehabilitation and behavioral management with at-risk youth. We will visit at least one horse farm, and you will all have the opportunity to work directly with horses to connect with your own abilities.   

Professor Laura Collander joined Catawba in 2023, teaching Intro to College Reading and Writing, Critical Reading and Writing, and Reading and Writing Arguments in the English department. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in English and a Master’s Degree in Education. She has a unique background with over 25 years of teaching spanning K-12 through college. She is a competitive equestrian and lives on her small horse farm with her two sons and her husband. She was raised on a small farm in New Hampshire and met her husband while living and skiing in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. When her oldest son was born, her family moved to Concord, NC, where they have lived for the past 21 years. 

Slip and Slide: Importance of Surfaces

Dr. Luis C. Fernández-Torres

Surfaces are the first point of contact in chemical reactions and biological processes.  Surface properties garnered interest since early history, as the ancient Egyptians poured oil under large stones to ease their sliding, and ancient Greeks and Romans developed techniques to limit the tarnishing of metal surfaces.  As technology advances, understanding surface reactions is fundamental to develop new applications and devices that benefit our society.  This course will introduce surface science and how it impacts our everyday life.  We will explore basic surface properties and their profound impact on several areas, such as energy, environment, electronics, art, and health.

Dr. Fernández is an assistant professor of chemistry and joined Catawba in 2024.  He completed his Ph.D. in Chemistry at the University Houston, Texas with a specialization in surface science.  At Catawba he teaches general chemistry, physical chemistry, and inorganic chemistry; and is interested in undergraduate research in surface science, nanotechnology, solar energy harvesting, and antioxidants.  He is also involved in undergraduate research collaborations with other universities.  Dr. Fernández is seeking students to participate in different research projects whether they are new to research or have previous experience.  Outside of research, he is an active member of the American Chemical Society, and enjoys sports, and reading.

Who Let the Dogs Out? The Evolution and Impact of Dogs

Dr. Megan Thompson

This course examines the dynamic and multifaceted relationship between humans and dogs, tracing their history from wild ancestors to beloved companions. Students will explore the domestication of dogs, their roles across cultures, and the various functions they serve—both as working animals and pets. The course will also address contemporary ethical concerns surrounding the treatment of dogs, such as the use of animals in testing and the prevalence of puppy mills. Through critical discussions, students will explore the psychological, social, and health-related impacts of living with dogs, shedding light on how these animals influence human happiness and well-being.

Dr. Megan Thompson, LCMHC, NCC is an Assistant Professor in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program since 2024. She earned her BS in Psychology from Sweet Briar College in Virginia, her MA in School Counseling from UNC-Charlotte, and her PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision from Regent University in VA Beach, VA. Dr. Thompson has extensive experience as a school counselor and mental health counselor and has worked with children and adolescents since 2008. Dr. Thompson is passionate about counselor preparation and identity development, as well as supporting student wellness. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family (husband, two children, and fur baby), and cuddling up with her family’s sweet Bernedoodle, Briar.   

Faith, Family, and Football? Examining Sport from Religious Perspectives

Dr. Troy Carlton 

Why is football played on Sundays? Why do we immortalize players and coaches by erecting statues of them? Have sports stadiums replaced churches as places of worship? Sport consumption is one of the most popular and significant dimensions of the human experience and when coupled with religion, make up two central facets of contemporary life that are deeply rooted in cultures around the globe. Both sport and religion can be enriching influences but can also be the root for social evils—greed, corruption, hate, idolatry, commercialization, racism, and sexism to name a few.

In this course, we will examine, both as a class and individually, the similarities and connections between sports and religion.  Specifically, we will attempt to understand the role of religion in the cultural origins, history and current state of football (and other sports) in American society and beyond. Topics include the relationship of religion and culture, political ideologies of the football subculture, the role of women and minorities, the practices of religious ministries, and the religious implications of football fans' fascination with the weekly tradition of tailgating, tackling, and touchdowns. The format of the class will combine readings, research, case studies, personal reflections, discussions, and presentations. The course culminates with a Saturday trip to a rivalry football game within either the ACC or SEC conference to experience the religion of football with our own eyes.

Dr. Troy Carlton, Professor of Sport Management, started at Catawba in 2019.  He holds an undergraduate degree in Sport Management from Elon University and a PhD in Parks, Recreation, & Sport Management from NC State University.  At Catawba College, Dr. Carlton teaches Sport Marketing, Facilities & Event Management, and History of Sport among other classes.  He also serves as the college’s Faculty Athletics Representative and co-director of the Rowan County Special Olympics. During his free time, Dr. Carlton loves to go backpacking in the mountains, training for half-marathons, and watching college basketball.  He lives in Salisbury with his wife, Marella, two sons (Sawyer and Holden), and daughter, Adalyn. Most of his weekends are spent building Lego creations with his boys and singing songs from Moana and Frozen with his little princess. 

Deep Listening - Music, Nature, and the Spiritual Traditions of the World

Prof. Aaron Shay

Why and how do the harmonic structures found in nature pervade the musical traditions in nearly every society? Why is sound and music so strongly linked with spiritual traditions? These are a few of the questions we will explore in this class. We will study some of the great spiritual traditions around the world and how music elevates and enhances them. Students will create short musical works and soundscapes to experience and engage with the material. Special note: There will be some singing in groups. You don’t need to be a singer, but you do need to be willing to try!

Professor Aaron Shay M.M. is a guitarist, music professor, luthier, and sonic installation artist from Northeast Ohio. He holds a Masters Degree in Jazz and Classical Guitar Performance from the University of Akron. He has taught a wide variety of courses at colleges in Ohio and is now an Assistant Professor of Music at Catawba College. He maintains an active performance schedule while continuing research on creating software algorithms which improvise within set musical styles. His sonic art installations are designed to create musical and meditative spaces. 

Rising Class: Elevating First-in-Family Students to Become Tomorrow’s Leading Citizens 

Dr. Sarah Sweatt / Prof. Rachel Sinz / Prof. Steffanie West

Reserved for First Generation college students: those whose parents/guardians did not attend a four year college

 This dynamic First-Year Seminar course has been designed specifically for first-generation college students—those who are the first in their family to attend college for a four-year degree. This course will explore the unique experiences, challenges, and opportunities that come with being a first-generation student, while also focusing on personal and civic growth to help students become responsible, compassionate, and impactful leaders in the community.  

Through readings, discussions, and experiential learning activities, we will examine the concept of community engagement and explore how social and cultural capital—resources like knowledge, networks, and values—shape the path to success. Central to this course will be Rising Class, a thought-provoking book that discusses how socioeconomic backgrounds influence access to opportunities, and how individuals can use their strengths to overcome obstacles, build resilience and character, and make meaningful contributions to society. Students will reflect on what it means to be a leader in today’s world, not just in terms of professional success but also in terms of empathy, kindness, and responsibility toward others. Students will be encouraged to engage with peers, faculty, and local community partners in ways that cultivate social responsibility and encourage lifelong learning. 

By the end of this course, students will gain insight into their own potential as future leaders in their chosen profession but also develop a deeper understanding of how to contribute positively to the broader world around them. Students in this FYS  will enhance their understanding of course content through a fully-funded end-of-semester trip that highlights the importance of good citizenship and building social capital (and which addresses outcomes for the Center of North Carolina Politics and Public Service ).  Join us as we explore how first-generation students can rise with their class to become the leaders of tomorrow. 

Professor Rachel Sinz, MSN, RN, CNOR(E), DNE Candidate, joined the Department of Nursing at Catawba College in 2021 as an assistant professor. Professor Sinz has practiced as a registered nurse since 2013, with clinical experience in medical-surgical, oncological, and perioperative nursing. In 2020, Professor Sinz earned her Master of Science in Nursing – Nurse Educator degree from the University of North Carolina Wilmington, with her final project focusing on teaching alternative strategies for stress management to novice intraoperative nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic. She is currently enrolled as a graduate student in the first cohort of the Doctor of Nursing Education program at The Ohio State University, with an anticipated graduation date in May 2025. Her doctoral work, a project implemented in a nursing pharmacology course, exemplifies her passion for retention and remediation strategies in higher education, with a hope to increase the nursing workforce and positively impact healthcare outcomes. Outside of her professional and scholarly endeavors, Professor Sinz cherishes personal time with her family – her husband, daughter, two dogs, and cat. She also enjoys traveling to spend time with her extended family and friends, is an active member of her church community, loves a great dinner and movie night, marvels at art and music, and finds such joy from being near water, especially in a kayak.  

Dr. Sarah Sweatt, DNP, MSN-ED, RN, Catawba College alumna, First Generation college graduate, and Assistant Professor of Nursing, joined the Catawba College Nursing Department in 2019. Dr. Sweatt has 13 years of nursing experience, and her professional background includes caring for patients in cardiovascular intermediate care and diagnostic cardiology services. Dr. Sweatt earned her Master of Science in Nursing Education degree at Western Governors University, identifying the importance of utilizing nursing informatics in a pre-licensure nursing curriculum and designed an informatics course to fulfill this professional requirement. She earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree in 2023 from Aspen University. Her studies focused on the impacts of social determinants of health on individuals in Rowan County and improving patient care by addressing the needs of the community. Dr. Sweatt is dedicated to fostering interactive learning, both in the classroom and simulation lab, while also working alongside students in clinical settings to address the needs of patients in the community and healthcare systems. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two young adult kids, Baydn and Ty, traveling, eating, fishing, and riding horses.  

Ms. Steffanie West, MBA is the college’s IT Operations Director and Project Manager. A Catawba alumna for both her undergraduate and graduate degrees, she has held management positions in diverse areas of the college including Admissions, Registrar, data, and technology. A two-time winner of the President’s Award for Staff Excellence for the 2015-2016 and 2020-2021 academic years and the President’s Award for Community Service for the 2022-2023 academic year, Steffanie is passionate about using leadership skills to strengthen the campus community.

Wax On, Wax Off: The Tao of Mr. Miyagi and Other Notable Martial Artists

Dr. Chad Betters                                                                                                     

Martial arts, or “the art of war,” encompasses a variety of styles and systems, each with unique goals and philosophies. While some people view martial arts as simply fighting, those who have adopted a martial arts lifestyle can attest to the physical, mental, and spiritual benefits of “walking the path.” Many esteemed marital artists, both real and fictional, have shared their principles to those who commit themselves to the various art forms. Their “Tao,” or their doctrine for how to live, not only drives those who practice martial arts, but has many applications for everyday life of the non-practitioner. From “Be like water,” to “Strike first, strike hard, no mercy,” this class will explore the many teachings within several martial arts and the applications not only to physical practice, but to everyday life. Students will also develop an appreciation for the benefits of martial arts culture, as well as learn how to perform a technique or two.

Chad J. Betters, PhD, LCMHC, BCPCC is an Associate Professor, Chair of the Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program, and Chair of the Department of Sport and Health Sciences at Catawba College. He is a licensed clinical mental health counselor in North Carolina and nationally board certified Christian counselor, and has over twenty years of experience, academically and clinically, in the counseling arena. Dr. Betters earned his BA at the University of North Florida, and his MHS and PhD at the University of Florida. He spends free time with his wife and children, serves their church working with the youth ministry, and training and competing in martial arts. Dr. Betters was introduced to martial arts as a kid and has trained in several styles, currently focusing on traditional martial arts of Japanese origin. His current goals include 1) self-defense, 2) competing with other practitioners who are stubborn enough to keep training at our age, and 3) keeping up with his ten-year old son, an annual medalist at state and national tournaments. 

Democracy and Education   

Dr. Allyson Yankle

The U.S. education system is currently in the middle of crisis of confidence. More Americans indicate that they were dissatisfied than satisfied with the quality of K-12 schooling. Americans are also more skeptical if the cost of a four-year college degree is worth the cost. There has been increased oversight by state governments and local school boards regarding the curriculum taught. At the same time, more states have expanded public funding for education opportunities outside of the public school system. The relationship between education, politics, and citizenship will be the focus of this course. We will explore who “gets” an education, what they are taught, where they are taught, and the impact this has on their communities. Beyond these questions, we will consider the larger goals of education and citizenship in relationship to democratic governance. Democracy and Education is designed to meet the learning outcomes of Catawba’s Center for North Carolina Politics & Public Service.

Dr. Allyson Yankle joined Catawba College in 2024 and is an assistant professor of Department of Politics. She received her B.A. in Political Science, History, and International Studies from St. Norbert College and earned her Ph.D. in Political Science from the University of Connecticut. Her research interests are currently devoted to judicial scandal in the United States, but she also explores international human rights courts and judicial language. She teaches courses for the Administration of Justice program and courses about American government, political institutions, and public policy. When she isn’t on campus, she is often traveling (or planning her next trip), spending time with family and her dog, or reading.    

Have I Got a Story for You!

Prof Annie O’ Brien / Pastor Kendra Joyner Miller

From the rocking chairs on front porches in North Carolina to boardrooms in the skyscrapers of New York, stories help us to craft identity, sell an idea, make heroes and villains, and give our lives ultimate meaning. Stories exist in cave paintings that reflect the earliest moments of humanity to the Instagram reels we share with our friends. They tell us what a society values and what we value – offering wisdom, advice, and warnings, if we just take the time to listen. As we seek to understand ourselves and discern our calling in the world how can story help to inform and inspire who we are and who we want to be. 

This course will draw upon the College’s commitment to vocational exploration, self-understanding and discover through by meeting the learning outcomes of one of the College’s signature Centers, the Lilly Center for Vocation and Values. Using this grounding it will ask how our self-knowledge helps to create information and compassionate citizens committed to the common good. As we seek to understand ourselves and discern our calling in the world how can story help to inform and inspire who we are, who we want to be and how we live in relationships with people and planet. 

Rev. Kendra Joyner-Miller is the Chaplain and Director of the Lilly Center for Vocation and Values at Catawba College.  She graduated from Catawba College in 2011 with a degree in Religion and Philosophy and a minor in Environmental Studies.  While at Catawba Kendra served as Student Government President, ran cross country, participated in campus ministry and the honors program. She believes deeply in the liberal arts and asking life's deepest questions around what we value and how that can be lived out in the world. After Catawba Kendra went onto Yale Divinity School where she received the Tweedy award for graduating student who showed the most promise in pastoral ministry.  Kendra the served the First Congregational Church of Glen Ellyn for eight and a half years before returning to Salisbury two falls ago with her Lutheran pastor husband Dan, their two girls Eliza (who is 3) and Jo (who is 2), and their black lab mix Connie.  When not at the College Kendra can be found making baked goods, reading a book, or exploring the beauty of the outdoors.  She also recently co-authored a novel “Welcome to Triumph” about women in ministry. 

Annie O’Brien is an Assistant Professor of Religion and Student Retention Coordinator at Catawba. From Love Valley, NC, she attended Wake Forest University for her BA and MA and will receive her doctorate from UNC Chapel Hill. Her work focuses on race, religion, and public memory in the Southern US, looking at Confederate monuments and lynching memorials as examples of how claims of power and permanence are ritually and spatially constructed. Her current research focuses on metaphors of trash and waste, and how they are used to devalue everyday people, work, lives, and places. She enjoys rock climbing, roller skating, and singing made-up songs to her rowdy and unruly cats.

Financial Literacy

Prof. Lewis Alexander

This course provides an interdisciplinary approach to financial literacy, integrating concepts from business, economics, psychology, and sociology to help students develop responsible financial decision-making skills. Topics include financial planning, bank accounts, credit and loans, wages and taxes, investments, personal data ownership and protection, property ownership, and insurance. By exploring the psychological and social factors that influence financial behavior, students will gain a well-rounded understanding of personal finance. The course equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to implement a life-long plan for financial success, preparing them to navigate financial challenges in both personal and professional contexts, as well as common financial security-building concepts.

Prof. Lewis Alexander is an adjunct professor in the Ketner School of Business who teaches courses in managerial finance and other topics.  

Are you Talking to Me? – Puppets, objects that speak

Prof. David Pulliam

Puppetry is at the crossroads of many disciplines: storytelling, design, sculpting, engineering, problem-solving, fabrication, musicality, dramatic and comedic acting, directing, video production, writing, criticism, etc. In this course, you will work autonomously and collaboratively, develop your original work, and honor global puppetry traditions. Puppets combine visual art, performance, text, music, and social, political, and religious contexts into puppet performances—a true maker space for expression.

This course explores the conception and creation of various forms of puppetry. You will investigate methods of building and performing puppets while looking into the strengths of different forms and styles. In addition, you will witness the incredible variety of contemporary world puppetry.

You will connect broadly across disciplines by reporting on and critiquing puppetry from several cultures, co-writing a short puppet play, sewing a basic puppet, designing puppet props, and building puppet scenery. We will read what some top puppeteers say about puppetry and think deeply about their ideas. We will look closely at puppet styles and designs worldwide and see what these objects can tell us about their cultures.

Puppets speak in more ways than we can imagine.

Professor David Pulliam joined Catawba as a Theatre and Visual Arts Professor in 1986. He has designed scenery for over three hundred shows for various college, community, and professional theaters nationwide. In addition to being the resident scenic designer at Catawba, he coordinates the Bachelor of Science in Theatre Arts Administration degree. A lifelong puppeteer, Pulliam recently directed Avenue Q at Catawba using the original Broadway puppets designed by Rick Lyon. Lyon also hosted a multi-day workshop with our Avenue Q cast. Pulliam is a recipient of the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival National Design Award and the Region IV Excellence in Directing and Excellence in Design awards. Outside of theatre, Pulliam is a juried member of the American Watercolor Society and a member of the Sustainable Preservation Technical Committee of the Association of Preservation Technology International. A native of Valdosta, Georgia, He is married to Kathy. He lives in a lovely house kept for the convenience of Angelica Schuyler Kitten, Eliza Schuyler Kitten, and Alexander Hamilton Kitten. Pulliam enjoys turning large pieces of wood into smaller pieces of wood (sometimes mistakenly called furniture), rescuing old things and turning them (unwillingly) into sculptures, painting walls (often with permission), and torturing a computer named Big Mac with random modifications.

Exploring the World of Artificial Intelligence

Dr. Gerard de Leoz / Dr. Pamela Thompson

In this course, we dive into the fascinating and ever-evolving world of artificial intelligence, exploring the many ways in which Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping our lives, work, and even our thoughts.

From cutting-edge generative AI technologies like ChatGPT and the basics of machine learning, students will gain hands-on experience while analyzing the social, ethical, and technological impacts of AI. Is AI our future partner or a tool to be cautiously managed? Together, we’ll investigate how AI systems work, discuss their potential benefits and risks, and experiment with some of the latest AI tools—from chatbots to image creators and more.

The course will also explore the rise of AI in machine learning, including the role of Explainable AI (XAI) and the implications for trust and transparency in AI decision-making. By the end, students will better understand the balance between innovation and responsibility, preparing them for a world where AI is increasingly part of the conversation.  We plan to equip students with foundational knowledge of AI, hands-on experience with AI tools, and critical thinking skills to analyze the societal and ethical impacts of AI.

Pamela Thompson, MBA, PhD is an Associate Professor in the Ketner School of Business, Department of Mathematical and Computing Sciences. She earned her PhD in Computing and Informatics (Computer Science) from UNC Charlotte in 2011. As an experienced data scientist, she has been teaching and advancing the use of data science in interdisciplinary contexts for over twenty years. She specializes in using AI methods to develop transparent machine learning models that improve understanding across technical and non-technical audiences. Her research integrates expertise from marine, weather and data science to predict nearshore white shark presence in Cape Cod, Massachusetts. She enjoys spending time with her family and her two cats, Koga and Prince Harry. She also enjoys Catawba sports, sourcing for Wingfield’s (small vintage shop), and the coast.

Gerard De Leoz, PhD, is an Associate Professor in the Ketner School of Business, Department of Mathematical and Computing Sciences. He holds a doctorate in Information Systems from Baylor University, as well as a Bachelor’s degree in Electronics and Communications Engineering and a Master’s in Information Technology. His research explores IT’s impact on small business sustainability and team dynamics in information systems projects, with an emphasis on rigorous data analytical methods. With over 15 years of experience building systems for Fortune 500 companies, Gerard designs industry-relevant courses, mentors students, and prepares them for professional certifications. An active member of the Association for Information Systems, he is committed to advancing IT education and fostering learning communities. 

Campus as Forest: Exploring nature-based solutions for a more regenerative world

Dr. Lee Ball

Explore how we are transforming our campus into a living learning laboratory for environmental sustainability through the use of nature-based solutions! In this hands-on seminar, you will explore nature-based solutions to climate change, resource management, and biodiversity through interactive hands-on projects and collaborative research. 

You will learn by doing—observing ecological systems on campus, engaging with sustainability initiatives, and working on projects that make a real impact. Guest speakers, including faculty experts and sustainability professionals, will share insights on today’s biggest environmental challenges and solutions.

Expect discussions, hands-on activities, and service-learning opportunities that connect what you learn to real-world action. You will also develop leadership skills by designing and implementing sustainability-focused projects that improve campus operations and culture.

By the end of the course, you will have practical experience in environmental sustainability and a clear understanding of how you can be a changemaker in your community. Get ready to learn, explore, and make a difference! 

Dr. Lee Ball is the Vice President of Sustainability and the Executive Director of Catawba College's Center for the Environment. Prior to his appointment to Catawba, Ball served as the Chief Sustainability Officer at Appalachian State University since 2015. There, he played a pivotal role in advancing sustainability initiatives.  He held numerous leadership roles at App State, including sitting on the Chancellor’s Cabinet, leading operational campus sustainability initiatives, serving as the lead team administrator of App State’s Solar Vehicle Team, leading the Appalachian Energy Summit, and chairing both their university-wide strategic planning and climate action planning committees. In addition, Lee has taught sustainability education, sustainable building design, building science, and sustainability leadership undergraduate and graduate courses for the past 23 years.

The Pursuit:  Belonging in the Age of Solitude

Dr. Megan Flocken / Dr. Lydia Hayes / Dr. Patrick Swaney

* Students must be accepted members of the Pursuit Program*        

 Despite expanding platforms and apps enabling connection, people today struggle more than ever to form meaningful relationships. Indeed, the United States Surgeon General issued a 2023 report on America’s “epidemic of loneliness and isolation,” noting that belonging is “a fundamental human need” that consists of “deep connection with social groups, physical places, and individual and collective experiences.” It’s easy to recognize the truth in this report—we all want to feel accepted, to find our people, our place, our purpose. But how do we understand deep connection in our everyday lives? How does it align with the digital realities of the 21^st century? What does it mean to belong to a community? How do we create meaningful relationships with others, our selves, the natural world, the places we live? And what keeps us from meeting this fundamental need? In this course, our approach to this issue will be grounded in the humanities; we will use transformative texts to guide our inquiry as we engage with these questions both globally and locally. Moreover, we will consider the ways that a sense of belonging or isolation might influence our choices, beliefs, and understanding of reality. 

Dr. Megan Flocken is Assistant Professor of Philosophy in the Philosophy & Religion (PHIRE) department and happily joined Catawba in August 2022. She is an academic product of interdisciplinary humanities education: earning an interdisciplinary humanities bachelor’s degree in Ethics, History, and Public Policy from Carnegie Mellon University and an interdisciplinary humanities master’s in Liberal Studies from Rollins College. She earned her PhD in Philosophy from the University of South Florida in 2019. Dr. Flocken's research interests include issues like nature, death, technology, politics, love, and art, through their intersections with 19th and 20th century thinkers. In her free time, Dr. Flocken explores North Carolina's great outdoors, reads, watches movies, and makes or listens to music.

Dr. Lydia Hayes is an Assistant Professor of History who joined Catawba College in 2021. She received a bachelor’s degree in History and Political Science from Flagler College and a master’s and Ph.D. in Medieval Studies from the University of St. Andrews in Scotland. Before coming to Catawba, she lived in Scotland for 9 years, developing a deep appreciation for all things British (including her husband). Her research focuses on the intersections between the secular and the sacred in medieval French Arthurian Romances, biblical texts, and the cult of saints. In her free time, she enjoys watching the St. Louis Cardinals play baseball, listening to music, keeping up with her favorite TV shows, fishing, and spending time with her cats Assyria (AKA Baby Boy) and Dacia (AKA Princess). 

Dr. Patrick Swaney joined the English Department at Catawba College in 2017. He specializes in poetry and twentieth-century American literature and teaches courses in creative writing, literature, and composition. He is the faculty advisor for The Arrowhead, Catawba’s literary arts journal. His first collection of poetry, Hand Over Hand Over the Edge of the World, will be published by YesYes Books in April 2025.  His writing has also appeared in journals such as Asheville Poetry Review, Conduit, and The Southeast Review. He earned his Ph.D. in English and Creative Writing from Ohio University. 

HONORS:  The End of the World

Dr. Buster Smith

* Students must be accepted members of the College Honors Program*

In this course we will examine the end of societies, both real and imagined.  By studying the breakdown of civilization we will acquire an appreciation for those elements of social life that we tend to take for granted.  What happens when mass media is no longer available?  How do people react if police stop preventing crime?  Where does one turn for solutions when dramatic upheaval occurs?

We will attempt to answer these questions and others by looking at historical situations where human cultures have collapsed.  In addition, we will study groups that have thought the end of the world was near and study their reactions.  Finally, we will watch movies and read speculative fiction that tries to examine what might happen in these circumstances.  By examining varied sources it will be possible to discover what elements of society are the most essential, how people interact in difficult times, and where media accounts differ from reality.

Dr. Buster Smith, professor of sociology, received his undergraduate degree in mathematics and religion from Middlebury College.  He then went on to receive his PhD from Baylor University in sociology.  Dr. Smith’s teaching and research focus on the sociology of religion with an interest in showing the interdisciplinary nature of studying society.  He has taught several courses in the honors program including Cash, Money, Billionaires and Breaking All the Rules.

HONORS:  The Time of Your Life: Reflections on Being and Meaning

Dr. David P. Nelson

* Students must be accepted members of the College Honors Program*

College will be the “time of your life.” This course is designed to help students contemplate, question, wonder about, and consider who you will be and to what end you will live during the approximately 4000 weeks of life you have to live. Focused on a close reading of the ancient Hebrew text of Ecclesiastes, and supplemented by other resources, including texts, music, and film,  the course raises questions like: Who am I? What kind of person do I want to be in the world? and How can I live my life with meaning and purpose? Ultimately, the course provides students an opportunity to consider how they will spend the time that is their life. The Time of Your Life is designed to meet the learning outcomes of Catawba’s Lilly Center for Vocation and Values. 

Dr. Nelson has taught courses in religious studies, philosophy, music, and cultural studies for more than twenty-five years. He earned a BM in Church Music and MM in Conducting from Hardin-Simmons University, with additional studies in conducting at the University of North Texas before pursuing studies in theology and philosophy, leading to a PhD in Theological Studies from Southeastern Seminary. He was appointed the 24th president of Catawba College in 2020. 

HONORS:  Education and Citizenship

Dr. Norris Feeney

* Students must be accepted members of the College Honors Program*

Preparing students to become “responsible citizens” is a promise Catawba College makes in its mission statement. We also promise a particular form of education blending liberal studies with career preparation. This FYS will examine historical and contemporary perspectives on citizenship, including the rights and responsibilities of citizens, who qualifies as a citizen, and what makes a good citizen. This course takes the position that liberal education prepares individuals to be engaged citizens and will define liberal education and how it supports fully developing one’s potential as citizen in modern societies. This course will also address the learning outcome of the Center of North Carolina Politics and Public Service.

Dr. Norris Feeney is an Associate Professor of Politics and the Associate Director of the Catawba Honors Program (CHP). He primarily leads courses in international politics, comparative politics, and political philosophy. Dr. Feeney has also led courses in American politics, the CHP, First-Year Experience, and The Pursuit. His intellectual interests in politics began with a first year seminar he took in the previous millennium as a freshman at Kenyon College. When not on campus, he enjoys time with his family and assortment of pets at home in southern Davidson County.