Defiance College welcomes new faculty

August 18, 2016

Pictured from left to right are Dr. Namporn Thanetsunthorn, assistant professor of business, Dr. James Sliwinski, assistant professor of psychology, and Beverly Fanning-Simmons, assistant professor of design.
Not pictured is Dr. Christopher Cwynar, assistant professor of communication.

DEFIANCE, Ohio - This summer, Defiance College welcomes four new full-time faculty to campus. Each new addition brings skills and experiences that will add to student learning and campus collaboration on interdisciplinary projects.

Dr. Timothy Rickabaugh, interim vice-president of academic affairs, stated that he is "excited about the unique perspectives and passion for teaching that each new faculty member will bring to our learning community." He also added that "each of them is excited to be a full-time faculty member at a teaching-focused college where they can develop long-lasting relationships with students, faculty/staff peers, and members of the local community."

Joining Defiance College as an assistant professor of communication is Dr. Christopher Cwynar. He is currently pursuing his Ph.D. in media and cultural studies from the University of Wisconsin and also served the Madison campus as a lecturer in the communication arts department. His areas of specialization include the influence of social networking, music, and technology on cultural communication.

Beverly Fanning-Simmons is taking the role of an assistant professor of design. She earned her MFA from the Savannah College of Art and Design and most recently served as a lecturer at Lindsey Wilson College. Her areas of specialization include graphic design as well as product and packaging design.

Dr. James Sliwinski is joining Defiance College as an assistant professor of psychology. He earned his Ph.D. in psychology from Baylor University in 2015 and most recently served as an assistant professor of psychology at Finlandia University. His areas of specialization include abnormal psychology and behavioral statistical analysis.

Taking the role of an assistant professor of business is Dr. Namporn Thanetsunthorn. She recently earned her Ph.D. in organizational development from Benedictine University and most recently served as a lecturer at Suan Suandah Rajabhat University in Bangkok, Thailand. Her area of specialization is international business. Dr. Thanetsunthorn began her service to Defiance College in January.

Defiance College, chartered in 1850, is an independent, liberal arts institution in Northwest Ohio offering more than 40 undergraduate programs of study as well as graduate programs in education and business. Defiance College has received national recognition for its educational experience of service and engagement. The college website is www.defiance.edu.