Dr. Mark Timney, assistant professor of journalism at Keene State, carries with him many designations: journalist, news reporter, public relations consultant, video producer, and guitar guru. But the title of which he is most proud is that of 'teacher.'

"Being a working journalist is one of the most exciting things you can do, but being a teacher is the most rewarding," he says. Mark has won two teaching awards here at the college, and he appreciates being recognized by his students for what he does in the classroom. Additionally, Mark won an award last year for best educational video from the Broadcast Educators Association.

Currently, Mark is producing a promotional documentary video featuring the Keene State Writing Center's Calderwood Institute on the Teaching of Writing, which helps faculty better incorporate writing into their classes. The video's purpose is to show what colleges are doing to help students with writing, and will be released nationwide.

While not in the classroom, or behind the camera, Mark spends time with his band, pouring classic rock melodies from his guitar. He also plans on establishing an historical fencing club at Keene State this fall. Fencing, Marks says, is a good activity for the mind and body. "It's fun to dress up in Renaissance clothing and swing a rapier around," he says. "It's a blast."

Photo credit Julio DelSesto.