David Thompson granted Dennis M. Jones Distinguished Teaching Professor in the Humanities

Luther College Spanish professor David Thompson has been granted Dennis M. Jones Distinguished Teaching Professor in the Humanities.

In honor of former Luther College Professor of English Dennis M. Jones (1932-90), the Jones Professorship is awarded to a member of the Luther faculty who honors the values and traditions of the humanities, enriches the intellectual life of students, and provides academic leadership in the humanities.

Thompson began teaching at Luther in 2004. He says one of the best parts of his job is having the opportunity to lead January Term study abroad courses to Spain and Latin America, where his students immerse themselves in the local culture and build their proficiency in Spanish. He holds a bachelor's degree in Spanish from Wabash College and a master's degree in Spanish and doctoral degree in Hispanic languages and literatures from Washington University.

The Jones Professor devotes part of his/her professional time to a project that will enhance humanities education, supported by funds from the Jones Distinguished Professor Endowment. Thompson is beginning work on a project promoting inclusive teaching and learning at Luther as part of his new role.

Thompson will serve as the Jones Professor through the 2019-20 academic year.