UC Blue Ash professor recognized as a top new teacher in Ohio

Jessica Furgerson, an assistant professor of communication at the University of Cincinnati Blue Ash College, is being recognized as a rising star in her field.

Furgerson, who is in her third year of teaching at the college, was recently named the recipient of the 2020 Distinguished New Teacher Award by the Ohio Communication Association.

“It was honestly just an honor to be nominated,” said Furgerson. “Everything since March has been so tumultuous that hearing the news felt like confirmation from the Universe that I was in the right place and doing the right thing. It made all the long nights preparing for the fall semester online worth it.”

Furgerson earned her master’s and PhD in communication from Ohio University and teaches courses in Public Speaking and Communication Business.

In her short time at UC Blue Ash, she has collaborated to develop an Honors seminar program on media literacy and a study abroad course on gender equality. She also demonstrates an enthusiasm for teaching and displays a genuine passion for cultivating student success both at the college and through her volunteer activities, which include helping coach a speech and debate team at LaSalle High School and serving as a mentor through the Cincinnati Youth Collaborative.

Bill Jennings, an associate professor of communication at UC Blue Ash, led the nominations for Furgerson by noting her engagement on campus, her ongoing

accomplishments, and the glowing reviews she consistently receives from her students. They talk about her positive approach in the classroom and note that she even makes her Public Speaking course – a class that some students dread – enjoyable and much less intimidating.

“Whether inside or outside of the class, she is a credit to her college, her area of study, and to herself,” Jennings said. “Her students, colleagues, and collaborators all testify to her knowledge, her artistry, and her ability to build rapport and confidence. It is rare that an instructor has such a diverse set of skills at this early stage in a career.”

The Ohio Communication Association formally presented its 2020 awards during the organization’s annual conference, which was held virtually on October 2 and 3. More information about the awards is available online.