With the start to the new academic year at Culver Stockton College , a group of talented and accomplished professionals joined the college’s faculty, each bringing unique expertise and experience to their respective fields.
Kelly Berhorst, a leader in both business and healthcare, stepped into the role of Lecturer in Agribusiness Management. A driven entrepreneur, Berhorst recently founded the 10th Street Children’s Academy in Quincy, Illinois. The academy, catering to children ages six weeks to six years, is set to care for 142 children at full capacity, supported by a team of 34 employees. Her business venture represents only part of her impressive résumé; Berhorst was the Chief Clinical Officer at Quincy Medical Group (QMG) from 2013 until May 2019, where she managed clinical services and a staff of over 400. Her prior role as Chief Operations Officer from 2013 to 2017 saw her leading all clinic operations and developing innovative service lines. Now, her focus is on sharing her business expertise with students, drawing from years of experience in leadership and operations management.
On the creative side of the university, Jennifer Bock-Nelson joined the Art Department as an Assistant Professor of Studio Art. Known for her contemporary works, Bock-Nelson is eager to inspire students to explore their own creativity, helping them push the boundaries of traditional art forms.
Edward Carr and Andrew Schroetter both joined the Music Department, bringing a range of talents. Carr, as a Visiting Assistant Professor of Music, brings his passion for classical music and composition, ready to guide students through complex musical theories and performance. Schroetter, an Assistant Professor of Music, is equally dedicated to the department, hoping to expand the university’s offerings in both music theory and performance, drawing from his own rich background in the field.
In Psychology, Lindsey Knochel joined as a Lecturer, bringing fresh perspectives to mental health and human behavior. Her engaging teaching style and research interests aim to ignite curiosity in the minds of students exploring the intricate world of psychology.
Solomon Moore also arrived as a Lecturer in Counselor Education, determined to train the next generation of counselors. Moore’s work focuses on equipping future mental health professionals with the tools they need to support individuals in need, placing a strong emphasis on empathy, ethics, and evidence-based practices.
For those drawn to the art of communication, Dustin Pruitt now serves as an Assistant Professor of Communication, where his dynamic approach to teaching aims to revolutionize how students understand and engage with the media and interpersonal communication.
In the fields of science and technology, Tong Si took on the role of Assistant Professor of Computer Science and Mathematics. Si is at the forefront of research in the intersection of these two disciplines and is eager to mentor students in both technical theory and practical application, preparing them for careers in the rapidly evolving tech industry.
Finally, the Theatre Department welcomed a familiar face in Michael York, now as an Instructor. York’s passion for performance and direction will be instrumental in helping students develop their stage presence and storytelling abilities, contributing to the vibrant and growing theater community on campus.
Together, these new faculty members represent a diverse array of expertise, enhancing the academic richness of the college. Their collective contributions promise to shape the next generation of thinkers, artists, scientists, and leaders.
Dr. Kim Gaither, Provost and Vice-President for Academic Affairs, stated that “She was extremely pleased with the new faculty who have joined us at Culver-Stockton College. Our faculty search committees worked very hard to identify and bring new instructors who are not only experts in their disciplines, but also interested in teaching at a small, liberal arts college where they can support their students by attending their sporting and fine arts events, attending their presentations, and watching their students become the next leaders on campus and beyond”.
