Jennifer Cornett, associate lecturer in mathematics at Lee University, has been named the recipient of the 2020 Janet Rahamut Award. This award is given in recognition to the faculty member that exhibits the most heart for students evidenced by frequent interaction and positive involvement with them outside the classroom.
“I am honored to receive this award,” said Ms. Cornett. “It means even more to me knowing that the student body selects the winner.”
The award is named in memory of Dr. Janet Rahamut, a veteran English professor whose tragic death in 2000 shocked the campus and left a tremendous void in the collective heart of the Lee family. The award was created to honor Dr. Rahamut’s dedication to her students, in and out of the classroom.
Ms. Cornett joined Lee’s faculty in 2015 and currently teaches developmental math and courses designed for elementary education majors, along with serving as an advisor to mathematical science students.
Ms. Cornett frequently visits sporting events, choir performances, and other student activities to show her support. “Though my interactions with students outside the classroom have been limited since COVID-19, I stay in touch with them through email and text messaging.”
She received her Education Specialist and Bachelor of Science degrees from Lee University and a Master of Arts from Georgia State University.
She lives in Cleveland with her husband Jonathan, also a professor at Lee, and their two children. They are active members of Westmore Church of God.
A student committee led by the Student Leadership Council chairperson and sponsored by Dr. Mike Hayes, vice president of student development, chooses the recipient of the Rahamut Award. Ms. Cornett was presented the award during the Senior Stories chapel service this past semester.