A Samford University faculty member who is considered one of the school’s “must-have” professors has been honored for his exceptional influence in the classroom.
Chris Metress received the George Macon Memorial Award during the opening convocation of the spring semester Jan. 27.
The annual award goes to a faculty member who, through outstanding performance as a teacher, counselor and friend to students, demonstrates the ability to inspire students to greatness.
Metress, who has been described as “brilliant, brilliant, brilliant” by students in his English classes, “embodies the spirit of Samford University,” said Brad Creed, Samford provost and executive vice president.
An English professor at Samford since 1993, Metress was named inaugural director of the school’s innovative new University Fellows Program in 2008.
A specialist in American literature, film noir and Southern literature, he is the author of many essays and reviews and three books. His 2002 book, “The Lynching of Emmett Till,” was a university press best seller that has been featured in national news stories and broadcasts.
The Association of American University Presses has named the book among its Books for Understanding Race Relations in the U.S.
Metress holds a bachelor’s degree from St. Mary’s University and master’s and doctorate from Vanderbilt University.
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