Reinhardt University recognizes individuals whose work has shaped the institution in enduring ways, and emeritus status is one of the highest honors it can bestow. A rigorous peer and governance process selects nominees who reflect years of dedicated, exceptional service and a lasting impact on the Reinhardt community.
This Spring, Reinhardt proudly celebrates eight former faculty members nominated for emeritus status: Theresa Ast, Ph.D., Cheryl Brown, Ph.D., Dana Hall, Ph.D., Michelle Harlow, Rev. Aquiles Martinez, Ph.D., Margaret Morlier, Ph.D., Martha Shaw, D.M.A, and Phillip Unger. A formal ceremony on April 21, 2026, will honor their contributions, achievements, commitment, and legacy.
If one or more of these individuals made a difference in your life, we invite you to share a favorite memory, a note of gratitude, or words of encouragement. These messages will be shared with the honorees during the ceremony and ensure an even more meaningful recognition.
Please send your notes and well wishes to:
Allison Dorman, Director of Legacy Giving and Sponsored Agreements
Allison.Dorman@reinhardt.edu
7300 Reinhardt Circle
Waleska, GA 30183
2026 Nominees
Theresa Ast, Ph.D., served Reinhardt for 26 years, from 1998 until 2025, as professor of history and liberal studies. Her teaching specialties included twentieth-century Europe, modern Germany and the Holocaust, and the history of science and technology. Additionally, Dr. Ast played an active role in faculty governance and committee work across the University. In 2013, she published Confronting the Holocaust: American Soldiers Enter Concentration Camps, reflecting her academic passion and deep commitment to historical understanding.
Cheryl Brown, Ph.D., joined Reinhardt in 2012 and served until 2025 as professor of sociology. Over her 12 years, she also held the role of coordinator of sociology and criminal justice, as well as coordinator of international studies from 2013 to 2019. Dr. Brown is known for her spirited personality and dedication to broadening student horizons. Her passion for the University’s study abroad program led students on international expeditions and encouraged them to experience the world beyond the classroom.
Dana Hall, Ph.D., first joined Reinhardt in 2005 as an adjunct professor of communication, teaching until 2009. She returned in 2013 and served until 2022 in roles including assistant professor of business, MBA program coordinator, faculty senate chair, and dean of graduate studies and special academic programs. She was recognized with the 2017 Vulcan Teaching Excellence Award, a testament to her impact in both the classroom and academic leadership.
L. Michelle Harlow devoted 35 years to Reinhardt University, serving from 1989 until 2024 as associate professor of English. Known for her straightforward approach to teaching writing, Dr. Harlow became the University’s longest-serving professor, helping shape the academic culture of Reinhardt for more than three decades. Her longevity and commitment to students left an enduring mark on the institution and on the thousands of students she guided in the classroom.
Rev. Aquiles Martinez, Ph.D., served as Professor of Religion at Reinhardt from 1999 to 2024, a span of 24 years. In 2019, he published Encounters with the Mystery: An Understanding of Religion in both English and Spanish, which became a foundational text for his Introduction to Religion course. That same year, he also published Interpretación Bíblica con Sabor Latino: Una Invitación al Diálogo Desde la Diáspora, bringing forward biblical interpretations through a Latin-American lens. His teaching and scholarship provided students with both academic rigor and cultural insight.
Margaret Morlier, Ph.D., joined Reinhardt in 2000 as assistant professor of English, and advanced to associate professor and professor. She served the University for 24 years until 2025. She held numerous leadership roles including director of the Honors Program, associate vice president for graduate studies, faculty senate chair, interim dean of the School of Arts and Humanities, and associate dean for the College of Humanities, Sciences, and Technology. Her instrumental initiatives improved student success and updated academic policy, shaping both the curriculum and academic governance of Reinhardt.
Martha Shaw, D.M.A., served Reinhardt University for 12 years, from 2012 until 2024, as professor of music and director of choral activities. A specialist in vocal pedagogy and a nationally recognized guest conductor, she led Reinhardt’s Chamber Singers and taught conducting, choral literature, and music methods. She is also the founding director of the Spivey Hall Children’s Choir. In recognition of her dedication to teaching and the University’s mission, Dr. Shaw received the United Methodist Exemplary Teaching Award in 2018.
Philip Unger began his career at Reinhardt in 2002 as a history professor while completing his master’s degree in the history of science and technology. He later transitioned to the Academic Support Office, where he served as interim director. In 2012 he developed a healthcare administration program in conjunction with Reinhardt’s expansion into online education. Unger’s 20-plus years of service also included three years as faculty senate chair.
