Aiken Technical College Math Teacher Recognized as Faculty Member of the Year for Southern Region

Aiken College Math Teacher Honored for Excellence

In the charming city of Aiken, South Carolina, a dedicated educator is making waves in the world of mathematics education. Lynn Rickabaugh, the math department chair at Aiken Technical College, has just been recognized as the Faculty Member of the Year for the southern region by the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT). Her passion for mathematics and commitment to student success have truly set her apart in the educational community.

What Makes Lynn Stand Out?

According to Joe Lewis, chair of the Aiken County Commission for Technical and Comprehensive Education, Lynn has “pioneered innovations in mathematics course delivery,” making her an outstanding mathematics instructor and leader. Over the years, she has redesigned curricula to better meet students’ needs and has worked hard to align course materials with local K-12 schools and four-year colleges. Her efforts aim to ensure that students have a seamless transition as they continue their education.

A Special Recognition

Lynn’s accomplishments will be celebrated at the upcoming Leadership Congress this October, where ACCT will honor her alongside other distinguished faculty members across the region. During the same event, the national Faculty Member of the Year award winner will be announced.

33 Years of Dedication

It’s remarkable to note that Lynn has devoted over 33 years to teaching math at Aiken Tech, and for the last 14 years, she has led the department as chair. For her, this recognition is not just a personal accolade; it’s a validation of her years of hard work and dedication. She expressed her gratitude, stating, “I really appreciate Aiken Technical College President Dr. Forest Mahan and the ATC trustees who believed in me enough to nominate me for this recognition.”

The Spark of Inspiration

So, what inspired Lynn’s passion for mathematics? She attributes much of her love for the subject to her father. “When I was in third grade, my daddy would sit at the kitchen table with me and help me with my math homework. I just could not get it, so I would sit there and cry,” she recalled. Her father’s unwavering patience and encouragement helped her overcome her struggles and eventually led her to excel in math competitions during high school.

A Unique Teaching Approach

What makes Lynn’s teaching method special is her innovative approach to learning. She believes in real-world applications of math concepts to make lessons relatable for her students. From creating engaging video content to promoting interactive discussions, she keeps her classes dynamic. “I use a learning platform that allows me to create my own assignments for every course,” she explained. This platform enables students to receive immediate feedback on their work, which she believes is crucial for understanding complex mathematical concepts.

Fostering Success Beyond the Classroom

Beyond traditional classroom instruction, Lynn has implemented several initiatives that emphasize student success. One notable program is the Open Math Labs, where students spend designated hours working on assignments in a supportive environment. Additionally, she has organized summer math boot camps to prepare students for the rigors of college-level math. By integrating math tutors directly into the classroom, she further supports her students’ learning journeys.

A Legacy of Impact

Lynn’s commitment to affordable education hasn’t gone unnoticed, as she received the Professor for Affordable Learning award in 2023 for her inventive use of Open Educational Resources (OER). This initiative has minimized the dependency on traditional textbooks, significantly reducing costs for students while enhancing their learning experience.

The Most Rewarding Aspect

At the end of the day, what brings Lynn the most joy is witnessing her students’ successes. “I love knowing that I get the opportunity every day to make a difference in a student’s life,” she shared. Feedback from former students about their experiences often motivates her to continue her work with enthusiasm and passion.

In a world where education is constantly evolving, Lynn Rickabaugh stands as a beacon of inspiration, not just for her students, but for educators everywhere. Her story reminds us of the profound impact a dedicated teacher can have on their community.