MTSU faculty and staff recently provided their perspectives on numerous issues to reporters, including controversial speakers on college campuses, banning books from school libraries and the relationship between religion and government, among others.

Dr. Rongjin Huang

Dr. Andrew Polk

• Dr. Rongjin Huang, a professor of mathematical sciences, co-authored an article titled “Teacher Learning Through Collaboration Between Teachers and Researchers: a Case Study in China” that was published Dec. 2 in the International Journal of Science and Mathematics Education. The report can be read here.

• Dr. Andrew Polk, a professor of history, penned an editorial on the use of “In God We Trust” and “Under God” by governmental entities that was posted online Dec. 6 by The Tennessean. His views can be read here.

John Hood

• John Hood, director of government and community affairs, is featured on the final edition of the City of Murfreesboro’s “Storytellers” television program. The show premiered Dec. 6 and can be seen here.

Hood said he enjoys contributing to community life in a Dec. 7 article in Murfreesboro Voice. His comments are available here.

• Dr. Ben Stickle, an associate professor of criminal justice administration, said “naked packaging” continue to tempt porch pirates to steal packages in a Dec. 7 article in Washington News Post. His remarks can be accessed here.

Dr. Ben Stickle

Stickle also commented on “naked packaging” for a report that aired Dec. 7 on WGN-TV in Chicago, Illinois. The video and transcript are available here.

Stickle explained why people steal catalytic converters in a Dec. 7 article at www.knowablemagazine.org. His illustrated expertise is on display in comic strip form here.

Stickle answered questions about porch piracy for a Dec. 9 report for www.safewise.com. His responses can be accessed here.

Stickle addressed the likelihood of greater porch piracy during the Christmas season in a Dec. 9 article by Culture Map Austin. His views are available here.

Beverly Keel

Ken Paulson

• Beverly Keel, dean of the College of Media and Entertainment, was profiled in a Dec. 7 feature on WSMV-TV in Nashville. The video can be seen here.

• Ken Paulson, director of the Free Speech Center, said the University of Pennsylvania has more leeway to invite controversial figures to campus because it is a private institution in a Dec. 8 article in the Philadelphia Inquirer. His views can be read here.

Paulson said a Texas school district’s removal of certain books from school libraries could be unconstitutional in a Dec. 9 story by San Antonio Report. His opinions can be viewed here.

Reporters seeking expertise from MTSU personnel, as well as members of the campus community with expertise for media, may contact Gina Logue in the Office of News and Media Relations at 615-631-8322 or via email at gina.logue@mtsu.edu.