Recognition for Remarkable Scholars at Francis Marion University

Recognition for Remarkable Scholars at Francis Marion University

Florence, S.C. – In a heartwarming ceremony held at the Ervin Dining Hall on campus, two outstanding professors were celebrated for their hard work and dedication to scholarship. Dr. Deborah Hopla, a respected professor of nursing, and Dr. Jeannette M. Myers, a noted professor of astronomy, have been named the newest Board of Trustees’ Research Scholars at Francis Marion University.

The Award Ceremony

The announcement was made by FMU President Fred Carter during a delightful luncheon. It was a proud moment that highlighted not just the professors’ achievements, but also the university’s commitment to excellence in education and research. The Board of Trustees’ Research Scholars program, established in 2002, recognizes faculty members who’ve shown exceptional and sustained scholarship.

Understanding the Scholars Program

So what does it take to earn such a prestigious title? Appointments are granted to senior faculty with a noteworthy record of research and publication, and who show promising signs of continued scholarly productivity. The title comes with a three-year renewable appointment, allowing for a reduced teaching load and a salary supplement. This allows the scholars to focus even more on their research.

Meet Dr. Deborah Hopla

Dr. Deborah Hopla has been part of the FMU nursing faculty since 2012 and serves as the director of the Family Nurse Practitioner tracks in both the Master of Science in Nursing and Doctor of Nursing Practice programs. She specializes in several key areas, including health policy for nurse practitioners, pain management, and sexual and reproductive health. Additionally, Dr. Hopla works on bridging the gaps created by social determinants of health.

Recognized for her leadership, she is a Fellow in the American Association of Nurse Practitioners and chairs the state’s Board of Nursing Advisory Committee for Nursing Education. Dr. Hopla’s impressive track record includes receiving the prestigious SC Palmetto Gold Award, publishing twenty-five peer-reviewed articles, and securing research grants totaling an astounding $5 million. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the Medical University of South Carolina’s satellite program at FMU and her Master of Science in Nursing and Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of South Carolina.

Introducing Dr. Jeannette M. Myers

On the other hand, Dr. Jeannette M. Myers has made significant contributions to the field of astronomy since joining FMU in 2003. She is not only a professor but also the director of the Dooley Planetarium and the FMU Observatory. Over the years, she has presented nearly 2,000 programs to educate and inspire more than 79,600 visitors at the planetarium.

With a keen interest in astrophysics, Dr. Myers has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications and research papers analyzing galaxy collisions. Her work has attracted funded research projects amounting to over $1.2 million. Her efforts have not gone unnoticed, as she received recognition for her excellence in teaching and was named the 2015-2016 FMU Distinguished Professor. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Physics and Astronomy from Minnesota State University at Mankato, a Master of Science in Physics, and a Ph.D. in Astrophysics from Clemson University.

In Conclusion

The recognition of Dr. Hopla and Dr. Myers serves as a testament to the incredible talent found within the faculty at Francis Marion University. As they continue their journey of research and scholarship, the wider community can look forward to the advancements and knowledge they will bring to their respective fields. Here’s to many more years of inspiring education and groundbreaking research in Florence!