Lee University’s Department of Mathematical Sciences recently presented Robert Griffith, retired Lee mathematics professor, the Department of Mathematical Sciences Alumnus of the Year Award at the university’s Homecoming celebrations.

“Griffith did more than any other person to grow the mathematics program from what it was when he started into the thriving program it is today,” said Dr. Blayne Carroll, chair of the Department of Mathematical Sciences. “We are all grateful for his commitment.”

Griffith joined Lee’s Department of Natural Sciences and Mathematics in 1970 and spent more than 46 years teaching at Lee. He taught calculus, statistics, and trigonometry and has been listed in Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers six times.

Griffith earned a two-year degree from Lee College in 1965 and finished his Bachelor of Arts from Tennessee Wesleyan College. He earned a Master of Mathematics from the University of Tennessee.

With a graduate degree in mathematics education, Griffith considers his specialty to be preparing teachers for today’s schools. Prior to joining Lee’s faculty, he spent three years teaching at Cleveland High School and served as an adjunct faculty member at Cleveland State Community College for 19 years.