ALMA — The Alma College Board of Trustees, at its February board meeting, approved faculty tenure and promotions, effective with the 2024-25 academic year.

Scott Dexter, a professor of mathematics and computer science, was awarded tenure. Dexter has a Ph.D. in computer science and engineering from the University of Michigan. Among his signature courses at Alma College is “Algorithms and Justice.”

Jillian Dickson, an assistant professor of art and design, was awarded tenure and promoted to the rank of associate professor. Dickson has a Master of Fine Arts degree from Clemson (S.C.) University. She recently published two books of illustrated works, “Sweet Sand Traditions” and “Doodled Definitions,” both through B.O.W. Publishing.

Jennifer Vranish, an assistant professor of integrative physiology and health science, was awarded tenure and promoted to the rank of associate professor. Vranish has a Ph.D. in physiological sciences from the University of Arizona. Her expertise is in cardiovascular and respiratory physiology.

Robert Cunningham, an associate professor of economics, was promoted to the rank of professor. Cunningham has a Ph.D. in economics from Binghamton (Pa.) University. He is an economics generalist who has taught and done research on a wide range of subjects, including baseball and the impact of race on housing.

Steuard Jensen, an associate professor of physics, was promoted to the rank of professor. Jensen has a Ph.D. in physics from the University of Chicago. In 2022, he published an article in the American Journal of Physics 90, “Exploring entropy by counting microstates of the p-state paramagnet.”

Jessie Store, an associate professor of education, was promoted to the rank of professor. Store has a Ph.D. in teacher education and development (mathematics) from the University of North Carolina Greensboro. Her research agenda focuses on mathematical reasoning and instructional practices.

Trustees also approved the awarding of emeritus status to David Clark, the Charles A. Dana Professor of Biology, and Patrick Furlong, professor of history.