Dr. Ollie Lee, distinguished professor of sociology at Lee University, will present a culminating lecture titled, “Applying the Sociological Imagination: The Intersection of Personal Biography and Societal Change” on Wednesday, Nov. 16 at 6 p.m. in Lee’s Humanities Building.

“This is Dr. Lee’s final semester of service, and we want to take this special time to honor his excellent work,” said Dr. Jeffrey Sargent, chair of the Department of Behavioral & Social Sciences.

Having graduated from Lee College in 1958, Dr. Lee went on to earn a bachelor’s degree and doctorate in sociology, then returning to Lee in 1967. His career at Lee began with the goal of helping the school transition from a junior college to a four-year liberal arts program. In 1968, he taught sociology to the first class to graduate from the new program.

Since then, Lee has served as chair of the Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, dean of the Division of Arts and Sciences, associate dean and academic vice president. In 2002, he was named distinguished professor of sociology.

Outside of the classroom, Lee has participated in the Cleveland Optimist Club, Cleveland Helpline telephone counseling ministry, consulted and was a member of city and county citizens’ study committees and was a research consultant for the Church of God International Study Commission. He is a member of the Southern Sociological Society, Christian Sociological Society, World Future Society, Alpha Kappa Delta International Sociology Honor Society, and Association of Christians Teaching Sociology.

Dr. Lee and his late wife, fellow Lee alumna Glenna Sheppard, have three sons, three daughters-in-law and five grandchildren. Active in the Westmore Church of God and the ministry of Gideons International, Lee speaks for the Gideons in many local churches.

This is a free, non-ticketed event.

Prior to the lecture, a reception will be held in Dr. Lee’s honor from 4-5:30 p.m. on the 3rd floor lobby of the Humanities Building.

For more information, contact the Department of Behavioral & Social Sciences at (423) 614-8125.