In Pursuit of Excellence: Teaching in Christian Higher Education

S3-E10: Self Control and the Scholar - How the Fruit of the Spirit Shapes Teaching

Co-hosts Dr. Alexandra Barnett and Dr. Melissa Clemmons welcome Dr. Bruce Bell, Adjunct Professor of English in the College of Arts and Sciences at Liberty University, for a rich conversation on the fruit of self-control in the life of a Christian educator. Together, they explore how self-control—when produced by the Holy Spirit—guides faculty through academic life, from grading deadlines to classroom dynamics. This episode reflects on how self-control helps scholars respond with grace, lead with wisdom, and teach with integrity, even in moments that test patience and resolve. It’s an honest look at how spiritual discipline can shape not only what we teach but also how we live out our calling in higher education.

S3-E9: Growing in Gentleness - How the Fruit of the Spirit Shapes Teaching

Co-hosts Dr. Alexandra Barnett and Dr. Melissa Clemmons welcome Dr. Tom Doss, Project Manager in Liberty University’s Center for Teaching Excellence, for a conversation on Growing in Gentleness: How the Fruit of the Spirit Shapes Teaching. Together, they explore how gentleness transforms the way educators lead, communicate, and care for students. This episode highlights how a spirit of gentleness brings calm to the classroom (in-person, or online), and reflects the grace of God in every interaction.

S3 - Bonus Episode: Supporting Students with Autism Spectrum Differences

In recognition of April as Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month, cohosts Dr. Jerry Pitts and Jake Byrd sit down with Dr. Ester Warren, Executive Director of the Office of Disability Accommodation Support at Liberty University. Together, they talk candidly about the challenges and opportunities students with autism experience in higher education. The conversation offers practical guidance for instructors, including ways to design courses thoughtfully and engage students with clarity and care. Along the way, the episode highlights Universal Design for Learning as a helpful approach that supports students with autism while creating more equitable learning experiences for everyone.

S3-E8: Cultivating Kindness - How the Fruit of the Spirit Shapes Teaching

Co-hosts Dr. Alexandra Barnett and Dr. Melissa Clemmons welcome Hope Graham, Educational Technologist in Liberty University’s Center for Teaching Excellence, for a conversation on how kindness shapes teaching and learning in Christian higher education. Together, they explore how kindness—rooted in the fruit of the Spirit—can transform classroom culture and strengthen faculty-student relationships. Through practical insights and personal reflection, they discuss how small acts of grace, patience, and empathy can create spaces where students feel valued and supported.

S3-E7: Faithful Foundations - How the Fruit of the Spirit Shapes Teaching

Co-hosts Dr. Alexandra Barnett and Jake Byrd welcome Dr. Melissa Clemmons, Teaching Consultant in Liberty University’s Center for Teaching Excellence, for a conversation on Faithful Foundations: How the Fruit of the Spirit Shapes Teaching. Together, they explore how faithfulness, rooted in God’s unwavering nature, enables educators to remain steadfast in their calling, consistent in their care, and committed to excellence. This episode highlights how cultivating faithfulness in the classroom creates learning environments where both teachers and students can flourish.