MOUNT OLIVE-The University of Mount Olive Alumni Association recently presented Barbara Lee, from the Class of 2008, with the Lorrelle F. Martin and Michael R. Pelt Excellence in Teaching Award.  The award was given during the Alumni Awards Ceremony held in Rodgers Chapel.  The event was part of the University’s Annual Homecoming celebration. Lee resides in Clinton, NC.

Lee started at Jones County Senior High as a business, finance, information technology teacher. She soon added graduation coordinator and senior class trip coordinator to her job description. Lee also founded a club entitled Proper Etiquette and became the Career Development Coordinator and Special Populations Coordinator. She has since moved to the Jones County Board of Education where she serves as the Career & Technical Education Director and Instructional Management Coordinator for the entire county.

During the awards ceremony, it was noted that Lee often shares her UMO story with students in Jones County. “Barbara constantly pushes students to reach their full ability,” said the award presenter. “Her dedication to her students and her community has led to many honors and recognition. Lee embodies what Ms. Martin and Dr. Pelt wanted for graduates of UMO.”

The University of Mount Olive is a private institution rooted in the liberal arts tradition with defining Christian values. The University is sponsored by the Convention of Original Free Will Baptists.  For more information, visit www.umo.edu.