Spartanburg, SC, August 22, 2025
News Summary
Converse University has announced the hiring of five new faculty members across its various schools, including the School of the Arts and School of Business & Data Science. Starting in August 2025, the new hires will enhance educational offerings and community engagement in their respective fields. President Dr. Boone J. Hopkins emphasized their potential impact. Notable hires include specialists in lifespan developmental psychology, English literary analysis, international business, physics, and dance education, contributing to a vibrant academic environment amidst changes at nearby institutions.
Converse University, Spartanburg, SC – In an exciting development for the academic community, Converse University has announced the hiring of five new faculty members. This initiative comes as part of the university’s commitment to enriching its educational offerings across various disciplines, including the School of the Arts, School of Business & Data Science, and the School of Liberal Arts & Sciences. The newly appointed faculty will officially begin their roles in August 2025.
President Dr. Boone J. Hopkins expressed confidence in the profound influence these educators will have on the university’s community and their respective fields. The new hires include specialists in diverse areas, reflecting Converse’s dedication to fostering a multifaceted academic environment.
Dr. Emily Herry is set to lead the IDEAS Lab at Converse. With expertise in lifespan developmental psychology, Dr. Herry has focused their research on mental health outcomes and identity development among sexual and gender minority populations. This contribution aims to advance both theoretical understanding and practical applications in these critical areas.
Joining the faculty roster is Josh Mangle, Ph.D., an instructor of English who brings a wealth of knowledge from his studies at Winthrop University. His dissertation specifically explored the theme of romantic companionship in Arthurian Romance, indicating a strong foundation in literary analysis and teaching methodologies.
Dr. Cazembe Monds, Ph.D., specializes in international business and will serve as an assistant professor of business administration. He holds a doctoral degree from Georgia State University, enhancing the university’s offerings in business education.
Bringing a scientific perspective, Krishna Panchal joins as an instructor of Physics. With a rich teaching background, Panchal places a strong emphasis on clarity in instruction and student engagement, aligning with Converse’s goal of making complex subjects accessible to all students.
In the arts, Carrie Preus will take on the role of part-time instructor of Dance. With over 15 years of professional dance and educational experience, coupled with an MA in Leadership and Cultural Management, Preus is poised to enrich the university’s dance program significantly.
In a related context, the academic landscape is shifting due to recent developments at Limestone University, which is grappling with financial difficulties. Faculty at Limestone University recently passed a unanimous vote of “no confidence” against President Nathan Copeland amid efforts to close the university. This situation has led Converse University to step in, offering scholarships of up to $22,000 for students transferring from both Limestone and St. Andrews University, ensuring that students have support during this transitional period.
In a noteworthy accomplishment, Ben Worley was named one of South Carolina’s Top Financial Security Professionals for 2025, ranking No. 4 statewide, illustrating the caliber of professionals associated with the region’s academic institutions.
Converse University continues to strive towards providing rigorous academic programs while maintaining its commitment to student success and community engagement during a time of uncertainty in higher education.
FAQ
What programs are the new faculty members associated with?
The new faculty members are associated with the School of the Arts, School of Business & Data Science, and the School of Liberal Arts & Sciences.
When will the new faculty start teaching?
The new faculty will begin their roles in August 2025.
What kind of scholarships is Converse University offering related to the closure of Limestone University?
Converse University is offering scholarships up to $22,000 for students transferring from Limestone and St. Andrews University.
Why was there a vote of “no confidence” at Limestone University?
Faculty at Limestone University voted “no confidence” against President Nathan Copeland amid financial difficulties and plans for the university’s closure.
Key Features of New Faculty Hires
| Faculty Member | Position | Specialization | Background |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dr. Emily Herry | Lead, IDEAS Lab | Lifespan Developmental Psychology | Research on mental health among sexual and gender minorities |
| Josh Mangle, Ph.D. | Instructor of English | Literary Analysis | Dissertation on romantic companionship in Arthurian Romance |
| Dr. Cazembe Monds, Ph.D. | Assistant Professor of Business Administration | International Business | Ph.D. from Georgia State University |
| Krishna Panchal | Instructor of Physics | Physics Education | Emphasizes student engagement and clarity in teaching |
| Carrie Preus | Part-time Instructor of Dance | Dance Education | Over 15 years of experience in professional dance |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
New Educators Join Rock Hill Schools Ahead of School Year
Additional Resources
- Greenville Business Magazine: Converse University Welcomes Five New Faculty Members
- Fox Carolina: Converse University Creates Scholarships for Limestone Students
- Goupstate: Limestone Closure Protests
- Wikipedia: Converse University
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Higher Education
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