Shelton, Queen named Gussler fellows
May 12, 2022
ASHLAND, Ky. – Ashland Community and Technical College professors Dr. Cynthia Shelton and Dale Queen were named 2022 Gussler Fellows during last week’s commencement ceremony.
Dr. Shelton, mathematics professor at ACTC, received the Gussler Family Endowed Chair in Science and Mathematics Award. Queen, ACTC communications instructor, received the Gussler Family Endowed Chair in Humanities Award.
In 2007, Dr. C. Gordon Gussler and his wife, Dixie Gussler, established the Gussler Fellow Award. As a distinguished alumnus of Ashland Community College, Dr. Gussler wanted to reward and encourage outstanding math and science faculty who foster in their students a desire to learn and reach their maximum potential.
In 2019, the fellowship was expanded to include an award for an outstanding humanities faculty member.
Dr. Shelton graduated from the University of Kentucky with a Ph.D. in STEM Education in December 2021. She has taught at ACTC for over twenty years and has received multiple awards by her students and peers over the course of her teaching career. Shelton enjoys hanging out with friends and family, road trips, concerts, hiking, and kayaking.
“I am so blessed to have a job that I love. I get to go to work each day and teach what might seem boring to some, but I have a big time in math class with these students. They inspire me and make each day new and interesting,” she says. “I am most appreciative to the Gussler family for their generosity towards ACTC. I am humbled and thankful for this honor.”
Queen has taught Developmental Algebra, Workplace Principles, Introduction to College, Business Communications, Basic Public Speaking and Interpersonal Communications at ACTC and became a full-time instructor at the college in 2020. Queen has two Master’s degrees: Adult and Higher Education and Counseling from Morehead State University and Communication Studies from Liberty University. He has written two books on local history. His first book “Clyffeside Park: Gem of Nature” is about a trolley park located on the outskirts of Ashland. The second book “Historical Gems of the River Cities” covers eleven places between Portsmouth and Huntington. Queen is also a drummer and enjoys playing live and recording in the studio.
“This award means so much to me because it is about what all professors and teachers do every day. They impact someone's life. For the short time that I was with them, I hope that I was able to encourage them to complete their education and reach their dreams and goals,” Queen said.
Recipients are nominated by students, fellow faculty or college staff for empowering and motivating students to succeed beyond their experiences.
