Weeks Named Adjunct Instructor of the Year by the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning at Harford Community College

Joshua Weeks was recently named the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning’s (CETL) Adjunct of the Year. The CETL Adjunct of the Year Award recognizes outstanding achievements by an instructor that demonstrates the importance of their role at Harford Community College and is awarded to the part-time instructor who exemplifies the highest quality of teaching and mentorship of students. Its purpose is to promote excellence in teaching at Harford.

Weeks is one of the longest-serving and most valued adjunct faculty members in the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) department. With nearly 15 years of dedicated service, he is celebrated for his collaborative spirit and innovative approaches to both classroom teaching and laboratory instruction. Over the past three years, he has consistently taught courses every fall, spring, and summer, seamlessly integrating the latest scientific discoveries and advancements into his curriculum. Weeks fosters a dynamic, student-centered learning environment that inspires curiosity, critical thinking, and hands-on engagement, making a lasting impact on his students’ academic and professional growth.

Jon Carpenter (Behavioral & Social Sciences), Flora Hinton (Workforce & Community Education), Jean Salvatore (Arts & Humanities), and Gloria Scott (Nursing & Allied Health Professions) were also nominated for the award.

Jon Carpenter is a passionate and dependable educator who has taught a wide range of Criminal Justice courses. Known for his unwavering availability—especially during emergencies—he goes above and beyond to support his students. His dedication to their success is evident in his heartfelt commitment to helping them excel academically and prepare for their future careers. Colleagues consistently hear Carpenter speak with genuine enthusiasm about empowering students to reach their full potential. Beyond his classroom impact, he exemplifies excellence through innovative course design, ongoing professional development, and a strong dedication to fostering an inclusive learning environment.

Flora Hinton has been a dedicated force in preparing students for the GED Language Arts test since March 2020. With a unique talent for connecting deeply with students, colleagues, and staff alike, she generously shares her knowledge and wisdom to empower learners on their educational journeys. Her keen understanding of students’ diverse life challenges enables her to support them not only in completing their courses and passing the GED but also in building a foundation for lasting success and personal growth. Hinton’s compassionate approach transforms lives and opens doors to new opportunities.

Jean Salvatore marks an impressive 40 years of dedicated service to Harford Community College. A respected pillar of the English discipline, she expertly teaches Technical Writing, English Composition, and Introduction to Literature. Her commitment to continuous growth is evident in her active participation in professional development through CETL and her consistent attendance at Convocation, staying fully engaged with academic advancements such as curriculum updates, administrative initiatives, student retention efforts, and accreditation processes. Beyond her classroom excellence, Salvatore demonstrates exceptional leadership as the faculty advisor to the Environmental Club—making history as the first adjunct faculty member to take on a club advisory role at Harford. Her passion for education and student engagement truly sets her apart.

Gloria Scott is a remarkable educator whose 25 years of expertise as a psychiatric nurse have profoundly enriched her six years as an adjunct instructor at Harford. Drawing from her extensive real-world experience, Scott brings her classroom to life, creating a dynamic and engaging learning environment. She is deeply committed to nurturing her students' growth—not only academically but also personally—by fostering empathy and compassion, essential qualities in mental health care. Scott’s passion and dedication have inspired countless students to pursue fulfilling careers in mental health nursing, leaving a lasting impact on the next generation of healthcare professionals.

Established by the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning in 2022, the CETL Adjunct of the Year Award seeks to recognize outstanding part time Instructors. The winner receives a $1,000 stipend while the other nominees receive $250 each.

Photo credit: Lauren Raygor, Harford Community College