Dr. Robert Steen

The Office of the Provost recently announced the Sensei Bob Steen Faculty Humanitarian Award, a new annual faculty award established in honor of late faculty member Dr. Bob Steen, professor of Japanese.

This award was developed in collaboration with the Division of World Languages, Literatures, and Cultures and honors an Oglethorpe faculty member who excels as an example of civility and collegiality, positively impacts and improves the lives of the people within their realm of influence, contributes to the cultivation of a more peaceful and harmonious campus community, and makes a meaningful difference in the world through global and international outreach and efforts.

The division nominated and the provost approved Dr. Stephen Herschler Mattern, professor of politics, as the inaugural recipient of this award.

Dr. Stephen Herschler Mattern

Dr. Mattern’s colleagues write, “he contributes to creating a positive campus atmosphere and establishing and maintaining a sense of community” and “his harmonious stance reminds us of some of the qualities that made the missed Professor Bob Steen so beloved.”

Dr. Mattern will receive a cash stipend from the Office of the Provost. In addition, he will have the opportunity to select a piece of Asian art from the Oglethorpe University Museum of Art permanent collection to display in his office during 2022-2023 academic year.

Read more about Dr. Bob Steen.