Athens State is pleased to announce that Dr. Jim Kerner, Dr. Michael Essary, and Dr. Wayne McCain have been honored with Faculty Emeritus status. The conferment of Faculty Emeritus status is an esteemed tradition of the academic community through which deserved honor and recognition can be bestowed upon retiring faculty members who have provided distinguished service and who have brought distinction to their discipline, their students, and their institution.
Dr. Jim Kerner dedicated 25 years of service to Athens State University, building a distinguished career marked by steady advancement from Adjunct Instructor to Professor. Throughout his tenure, he provided impactful leadership as Department Chair and later as Interim Dean of the College of Business. Dr. Kerner holds a bachelor’s degree in Professional Studies and a master’s degree in Human Resource Development and Administration from Barry University, as well as a Doctor of Education from Nova Southeastern University.
During his 21 years at Athens State, Dr. Michael Essary was instrumental in the development and expansion of the University’s graduate program. Advancing through the faculty ranks to Professor, he served as Department Chair in the College of Business and contributed extensively through committee service. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Management from University of Tennessee and an MBA from University of South Carolina, and later completed an additional MBA at Northcentral University.
Dr. Wayne McCain’s 32-year tenure at Athens State University was defined by innovation and academic program growth. Rising from Associate Professor to Professor, he spearheaded the development and launch of the Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Systems Management, significantly expanding the University’s presence in aerospace education. Dr. McCain earned a bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering from Auburn University and went on to complete master’s degrees in Administrative Science from The University of Alabama Huntsville and Space Systems from Florida Institute of Technology. He also received a Doctor of Philosophy from the University of Alabama Huntsville.
“The designation of Faculty Emeritus is one of the highest honors our University can bestow upon a retiring faculty member,” said Dr. Dave Ragsdale, Dean of Colleges. “Dr. Kerner, Dr. Essary, and Dr. McCain have each made extraordinary contributions to Athens State University through decades of dedicated teaching, leadership, scholarship, and service. Their commitment to student success and academic excellence has helped shape our institution and leave a lasting impact on countless students, colleagues, and academic programs. We are proud to recognize their achievements and celebrate the legacy each has established at Athens State.”