CMU professor earns top recognition for research on civic engagement

Central Michigan University assistant professor of educational leadership Matthew Johnson has been awarded the 2013 Jon C. Dalton Institute on College Student Values Dissertation of the Year Award for his research on civic engagement. Johnson’s research explores the concept of best structuring various programs, cocurricular experiences and courses to strengthen a college students’ civic identity.

 

“I think my dissertation bridges two important trends in higher education: an increased focus on civic engagement and a need for greater understanding and valuing of diversity,” Johnson said.

 

The Dalton Institute, in its 23rd year, focuses on the development of college students' values and character. Funded by the John Templeton Foundation, the award recognizes an outstanding doctoral dissertation relevant to the field of college student character and values development. As part of his honor, Johnson will receive a $500 award for future research.

 

The 2013 Dalton Institute Awards Review Committee honored Johnson for doing research concerning “important themes within the field of scholarship on character and values development in college.” The committee states the “implications of this study confirm that educators need to not only engage in dialogue about social change, but take the next step and do something about it.”

 

Anne Hornak, chairwoman of the department of educational leadership, said Johnson’s work is very relevant in today’s higher education setting, and she was happy to hear of his recognition.

 

“It not only shows the achievements that Dr. Johnson has contributed in terms of student values, but it also shows the promise he has as a young scholar in the field,” Hornak said. “This is his first year at CMU. It’s very exciting for our department as a whole.”

 

Prior to joining the faculty at CMU, Johnson served as a visiting professor of student affairs/higher education at Miami University. He completed his dissertation at the University of Maryland in 2012 in the college student personnel program. His research interests center on leadership, civic engagement and diversity.