STEUBENVILLE, OH—Four Franciscan University professors received awards for their dedication to teaching, scholarship, and service during a faculty reception on Monday, February 1, at Franciscan University.

Dr. James Coyle was awarded the status of Associate Professor Emeritus for his 33 years of faithful service to Franciscan University. He founded and developed the Communication Arts Department and worked as the inaugural director of Franciscan University Presents, the University’s theology discussion television program, which today reaches 264 million households through the Eternal Word Television Network. Although Coyle retired last year, he continues to teach part-time and is respected by his colleagues for being an excellent teacher and mentor to students.

Ron Bolster, assistant professor of theology and director of the Catechetics Program, was awarded the Excellence in Service Award for his devotion to the Catechetics Department and his broader service to the Diocese of Steubenville and the Catholic Church. A former U.S. Navy jet fighter pilot, Bolster directs the popular St. John Bosco Conference for Catechists and Religious Educators and was instrumental in launching the University’s Master of Arts in Catechetics and Evangelization online program. He co-authored the award-winning book, Chosen: Your Journey Toward Confirmation.

Dr. Mary Ann Sunyoger, professor of English, was awarded the Excellence in Teaching Award for her many years of exemplary teaching. In her years of service at Franciscan University, she has been instrumental in establishing and growing the English Department’s writing concentration and the Writing Center. She demonstrates a great love and devotion for her vocation as a teacher to which her recently published book, Life Lessons, gives testament.

Dr. Robert Doyle, professor of history, was awarded the Excellence in Scholarship and Artistry Award for his many years of outstanding scholarship that have made him a nationally and internationally recognized expert on prisoners of war and the POW experience. A Fulbright scholar, Doyle is the author of many journal articles, book reviews, and books, including The Enemy in Our Hands: America’s Treatment of Prisoners of War From the Revolution to the War on Terror. He has also served as an invited lecturer, technical advisor, and consultant for numerous POW and World War II films and documentaries.

Each awardee received a certificate and a monetary award.