ACC Names 2019-2020 Adjunct Instructor of the Year

Houston Moore in the Animal Care department.

Alamance Community College has named Houston Moore as its Adjunct Instructor of the Year for 2019-2020. Moore teaches part-time in Animal Care and Management and works part-time as the lab manager taking care of the animals on weekends and holidays. He has been teaching part-time in the program for more than 10 years.

“The deans of each division and I selected Houston Moore for his many years of dedicated, consistent, and passionate service to students and the Animal Care and Management program,” said Dr. Connie Wolfe, Vice President of Instruction.

Moore has lived on a farm his entire life and has always felt a connection to animals. A 2008 graduate of ACC’s Animal Care and Management, he began working as lab coordinator in the program that summer. Within a few years, he was hired as an adjunct instructor in the animal handling class. He also earned a certificate in animal chemical immobilization.

Said Jerilyn Free, Animal Care and Management Department Head: “The students really enjoy Houston’s teaching and learning about his animal experiences outside of the classroom. Houston has a ton of patience with teaching students how to handle difficult animals. He is a hard worker and very devoted to teaching students how to properly handle animals without fear.”

Students consistently rate Moore’s classes highly, remarking on his patience, relatability, and passion for the subject. Commented one student: “Houston makes class enjoyable for everyone. He likes to interact with all the students and get people excited about whatever we are learning about that day.”

Representing the Industrial Technologies division, Moore was one of three nominees selected by deans after careful consideration. Each of ACC’s nominees improves and expands student learning at ACC. Also nominated were:

• Abby Simoneau, Music Instructor, representing the Business, Arts, and Sciences Division. Said Dr. Clara Vega, Humanities and Fine Arts Department Head: “Abby’s high standards, integrity, and sense of humor identify her as a person full of life. She brings a fresh insight and energy to every assignment that she undertakes both in and out of the classroom. She is a flexible team player who accommodates to the needs of the department. She has also taught critical thinking to students in university transfer, Alamance-Burlington Schools, and Early College.”
• Cassie White, Cosmetology Esthetics Instructor, representing the Health and Public Services Division. With years of experience in the field and in the classroom, White helped to resuscitate ACC’s Esthetics program. She creates a positive energy and displays constant professionalism. Commented one student: “Mrs. White is a wonderful instructor for many reasons. She’s been a part of the industry for years and is super relatable. Knowing she’s a successful working wife and mother while building her own business makes us believe we can do the same.”

“We at the College congratulate Houston Moore and each of the nominees this year. ACC is fortunate to have such dedicated and inspiring adjunct instructors,” said Dr. Wolfe.