Claflin University's Dr. Isaiah R. McGee was a 2009 recipient of the South Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities Inc. Excellence in Teaching Award. McGee received the award at SCICU's fourth annual banquet held April 21.

The Excellence in Teaching Awards was created to honor those faculty members who demonstrate the highest standards of teaching that encourage students to strive for excellence in their studies and intellectual pursuits. The award is given to one faculty member at each of the 20 member colleges and universities. Each recipient is chosen by their institution and receives a certificate and a grant for $3,000 to be used for professional development opportunities.

McGee is a native of Anderson and has been a member of the Claflin University faculty since 1997. He currently serves as director of choral studies and assistant professor of music and is director of the renowned Claflin University Concert Choir.

"Dr. McGee's approach to teaching and scholarship with his student partners demonstrates the strength of the amalgam that results when theory and practice are combined," said Dr. George Miller III, vice president for academic affairs at Claflin.

This past year, McGee lead the university's Concert Choir to China, where they participated in the pre-Olympics ceremonies with coral tributes in Beijing and Shanghai.

"Dr. Isaiah McGee is an exemplary member of our faculty and committed to teaching and service," said Dr. Henry N. Tisdale, president of Claflin University. "As both the director of the Concert Choir and advisor to the Student Government Association, Dr. McGee has consistently demonstrated an uncommon devotion to ensuring that our students receive experiences that build their intellectual capacity and strengthen their ability to live and compete successfully in an ever-expanding global society."

McGee earned his undergraduate degree from South Carolina State University, his master's degree from the University of South Carolina and his doctoral degree from Florida State University.

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