Rachel L. Fournier, lecturer of Spanish in the Department of Modern Languages and Classics, has received the Troy University Faculty Senate Excellence Award.

The award was presented by Faculty Senate President Dr. Margaret Gnoinska during the University’s annual Honors Convocation on the Troy Campus on April 16.

The Faculty Senate Excellence Award is presented annually to an outstanding lecturer or adjunct faculty member who demonstrates excellence in the areas of teaching, research and service. It was first presented in 2008.

“Ms. Rachel Fournier has gone above and beyond serving the University, while focusing on her research and teaching,” Gnoinska said. “Her work is not only testimony to her dedication in all of the three areas, but also exemplifies one of the major missions of the University, which is the ongoing internationalization of our school. Ms. Fournier takes students on trips to Spanish-speaking countries every year, she serves as a Spanish Club adviser, and she actively promotes study abroad through workshops for faculty and students. Ms. Fournier’s passion for teaching, research, and service prepares our students to be globally competitive and bridges Troy University with the rest of the Americas and Europe.”

Fournier joined the TROY faculty in 2012. Prior to that, she served as a teaching assistant at Auburn University. She earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Auburn University and currently is pursuing a Ph.D. in adult education.

“Being selected for the 2018 Faculty Senate Excellence Award is a tremendous honor,” Fournier said. “I am truly blessed to have such wonderful colleagues. I don’t know if it is even possible to fully express the gratitude I feel for being considered for the nomination. I love what I do, and having my efforts recognized by the University is yet another example of why working here at Troy University is such an enjoyable experience. I am genuinely thankful for the opportunity to be a part of the TROY family, and will continue to put forth my best efforts to serve the University and its students.”