184 LEADERSHIP PRESIDENT Scott Adair The Harding University Communication Department announced the 2020-21 Petit Jean yearbook’s dedication to Associate Professor of Bible and Ministry Scott Adair. Adair was inspired to pursue his passion of teaching Bible during his time as a student at Harding and by one particular faculty member who made a difference in his life, Ross Cochran, professor of Bible and ministry. “Ross Cochran had such an impact on me when I was a student here,” Adair said. “He was a new teacher, and my freshman year was his freshman year of teaching. If I got a chance to come back and teach Bible and have an impact on peoples’ lives like he did, I would jump at that chance.” Adair started his career at the University in 2001 and saw the benefits of teaching firsthand. He remarked on how teaching the Bible could bring a level of connection among students that was hard to find anywhere else. “Sometimes in the classroom, by the spirit of God, there is a sense of awe, wonder and holiness,” Adair said. “Students and I are honest with ourselves and with each other, [and] we listen to each other. We are more interested in pursuing in truth than impressing each other.” Adair’s approach to teaching through connection and conversation inspired numerous students in his time with Harding, including senior Faith Smith. Smith said Adair’s teaching and his ability create a comfortable environment for the students was a special gift and talent. “[Adair’s] class almost feels like a stereotypical Sunday school class, but in a good sense where all the conversation and conflicting points are welcome for discussion,” Smith said. “Sitting in a Scott Adair class feels like you’re out to coffee with Dr. Adair and receiving a sermon from him all at the same time.” Students were not the only ones impacted by Adair. Cochran said Adair’s impact on Harding faculty was proven by his nomination to serve as president of the Faculty Leadership Council. “The fact he was voted as president shows that he is trusted and trustworthy,” Cochran said. “It’s the first time we’ve put officers through campus wide selection. It’s a nice compliment to his work.” Cochran added that Adair’s influence on his colleagues goes beyond the Faculty Leadership Council and showed itself in more personal ways. “He’s just got this perspective that’s credible and trustworthy,” Cochran said. “Whether it’s theology or what’s happening around our campus, he’s got this perspective I trust and seek.” Throughout his career, Adair said the benefits of teaching were still the same as they were in the beginning. “I love teaching people about Christ; I love mentoring students, and I love the interactions with my colleagues,” Adair said. “All of it makes me better.” Professor Scott Adair is the 2020-21 Yearbook Dedication Recipient story by Daniel Burley E
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