Dr. Joni Seaton James Charles, associate professor of Finance & Economics at Southwest Texas State University was recently chosen as one of two recipients of the first Mariel M. Muir Excellence in Mentoring Award.

Dr. Charles, a Bermudian who is pictured above with her family, is the daughter of the late Ruth Seaton James and Mr. Ethelbert James.

The award honours faculty and staff who provide exceptional support and show commitment to assisting both students and colleagues through time, effort and advice. It was established in 1999 to honour and remember Mariel M. Muir, who served as the dean of the School of Science from 1992 until her death in 1996.

Each dean nominates one faculty member, and each vice president senda two staff nominations to a selection committee. The award is then chosen for one faculty and one staff member.

Winners are presented with a cash prize, a plaque from the president, and honoured at a fall luncheon with the senior academic administrators. Dr.

Charles resides in Austin, Texas with husband Greg and three children.