Rebecca Foote has been elected Outstanding Professor in the Jennings A. Jones College of Business for the third time in four years.

Rebecca Foote

The Department of Accounting instructor again was voted by students for the honor in an election sponsored by the insurance fraternity Gamma Iota Sigma. Foote received the same honor in 2009 and ’10.

Martin Chair of Insurance Chairholder Dr. Ken Hollman announced the award after 430 students voted Feb. 7.

All professors in the college were candidates for the honor, Hollman said.

Foote received 43 votes, far more than her nearest competitor, Hollman said, adding that 14 business faculty members received at least 10 votes.

“Every day in the classroom I try to convey my belief that it is a privilege for us to be there—teacher and students,” Foote said. “I strive to challenge my students and help them realize that dedication to their educational endeavors will be rewarded. I am truly humbled by this wonderful honor from the students.”

In a letter commending Foote, Gamma Iota Sigma President Ben Punch said her selection was indicative of a “sincere interest in students and of efforts to provide them with a relevant and contemporary educational experience leading to a career in business. It is an expression of appreciation for service to our college and its student body.”

Hollman said Foote “is devoted to the students and her profession. She is well prepared, current in her field and can relate extremely well to today’s student.”

Hollman said he and the students agree that naming an outstanding professor each year “is a way to provide psychological encouragement to the faculty for doing a good job.”

Foote has been an accounting faculty member since 2006. She received a bachelor’s degree from Ohio State University and a master’s from MTSU.

Gamma Iota Sigma gives the award as part of its competition with 55 other chapters across the country. The award is given only at MTSU.

— Randy Weiler (Randy.Weiler@mtsu.edu)