Caravelis, Boyer selected to All-SoCon Faculty and Staff team
Cyndy Caravelis
Cyndy Caravelis, a professor of criminology and criminal justice, and Brian Boyer, a residential case manager, were chosen as Western Carolina University’s representatives on the All-Southern Conference Faculty and Staff team.
Two representatives were chosen from each of the 10 SoCon member institutions. While the selections were left up to each institution’s discretion, the recipients all shared the common characteristics of demonstrated service to the institution and contributions to campus life and the local community. Faculty members selected have demonstrated strong contributions to teaching, research and/or service, while staff members are being recognized for bringing out the best in others and creating conditions for success.
Caravelis merges her teaching, research and service in ways that have benefited on-campus and off-campus communities. An award-winning teacher, she has led students on study abroad classes to Europe, South Africa and New Zealand. A certified victim advocate, Caravelis serves on the board of directors for the local Center for Domestic Peace and provides legal and emotional support to domestic violence victims.
Her peers note that “perhaps her greatest impact to the betterment of student life comes in the form of the creation of the Peacekeeper training program,” which helps “all faculty, staff and students learn how to respond to trauma and victimization on campus.”
Brian Boyer
As a residential case manager, Boyer has shaped the lives and enhanced the experiences of countless students. His impact stretches across campus and beyond as he has promoted athletic events, organized community and civic oriented learning programs, and provided immeasurable support to students throughout their four or more years in Cullowhee.
According to one of his many fans, Boyer “creates a great sense of community amongst the on-campus students,” giving them the resources and instilling in them a confidence “to help them succeed.” Others have noticed that in addition to all his other duties and responsibilities, “Brian is always throwing together informal meetings and gatherings, things that are not part of his job requirements, but play a role in our students experience as Catamounts.”
Caravelis and Boyer will be recognized at the Catamounts’ Feb. 4 men’s basketball game against Chattanooga.
