On the occasion of Dr. Alycia Stigall's tenure as Professor
Wonderful Life introduced me to the incredible diversity and complexity of the evolutionary history preserved in the fossil record while simultaneously explaining the importance of new ideas and new ways of thinking in the study of science. It has been a deeply impactful book for myself and also for many of the students that I have mentored.
Wonderful Life: The Burgess Shale and Nature of History
On the occasion of Dr. Eva Lynn Cowell's promotion to Senior Lecturer
This book reminds me of what our parents instilled in us as we were growing up: sometimes by deep wisdom, sometimes by silly stories-underlying all is the belief in self and your circle. Home being a state of mind (we moved very often growing up-so importance was placed on experiences and being present versus things). Love, family and friendships, joy, nature, reflection, coping, vulnerability, hope, and kindness do not go untouched. All of this is a lot to pack in a book, but the discoveries of this seemingly random quartet feel like reliving our childhood-which so lovingly prepared us with life lessons for all the stages of life. xo
On the occasion of Dr. Benjamin Auerbach's promotion to Professor.
Since my tenure and promotion to associate professor, my research has shifted from comparative anatomy to using evolutionary quantitative genetics to understand vertebrate evolution. Few publications provide the essentials of quantitative genetics as lucidly and broadly as this volume. Scholars who want to learn about the theory and methods that underlie the evolution of complex traits are well-served to have a copy of this volume on hand. I learn something new every time I open it.
On the occasion of Dr. Gil Souza's tenure as Professor
I like Harari's writing style. I've read this book twice and I am sure I will read it again more times. More than just a history book; has quite a bit of science too.
On the occasion of Dr. Krista Eileen Wiegand's promotion to Professor
These two editors are two of the most important mentors I have had during my career. They have always been encouraging and promoted my scholarship, and involved me in excellent opportunities for growth.
What Do We Know About War?
Author — Sara McLaughlin Mitchell and John A. Vasquez
Department - Mechanical, Aerospace, & Biomedical Engineering- UTSI
On the occasion of Dr. R. Lee Leonard's promotion to Research Associate Professor
Dallas Smith was one of my professors at Tennessee Tech. Since retirement, he has become an endurance legend in Tennessee and an ambassador of the sport of running. I purchased his first book, Falling Forward, after catching-up with him at a 5k race in 2008. Reading his book and learning of his accomplishments inspired me challenge myself and try new things. You don't have to be a runner to enjoy his book, which recounts some of his adventures across Tennessee and beyond.