HARRISONBURG, Va. (ROCKTOWN NOW) – James Madison University physics and astronomy professor and John C. Wells Planetarium director, Dr. Geary Albright, has been awarded the 2024 Sun Belt Conference Faculty of the Year Award.

The annual award, given to one faculty member from the entire conference, recognizes a professor who excels in teaching, engages and inspires students, and supports student-athletes and the athletics department.

Fourteen Sun Belt Conference institutions nominated a Faculty Member of the Year finalist from the 2023-2024 academic year. Conference representatives, directors and Student-Athlete Advisory Committee members voted to select the recipient. The conference initiated the Sun Belt Faculty Member of the Year Award in 2019.

According to the award citation, Albright employs a student-centered approach in his classes. He uses hands-on activities and inquiry-based learning to make complex scientific concepts accessible and engaging. He accommodates student-athletes’ busy schedules, demonstrating his dedication to their academic and athletic success.

“I’m incredibly honored that my students valued my class enough to nominate me, let alone that I won,” Albright said. “I strive to bring positive energy to my teaching and share my love of science with them.”

JMU Athletics Director, Matt Roan, emphasized the importance of faculty support in fostering student-athlete success and how Albright exemplifies this commitment.

“Dr. Albright epitomizes that ideal relationship with his support and trust,” Roan said. “He sees our student-athletes not just as athletes, but as young people seeking success in all their endeavors. That’s what makes JMU special.”