Neva Jean Specht

Neva Jean Specht
Department: 
History, College of Arts and Sciences
Degrees: 
Ph.D., M.A. University of Delaware; B.A., Grinnell College
Curriculum Vitae: 
Teaching Experience: 
My first year at Appalachia I had the opportunity to teach two History Honors courses. I couldn’t believe I had such good luck as a new Assistant Professor. From that point on I was hooked. I’ve continued to teach courses in the Department of History’s Honors courses as well as in University Honors. I teach early American History, History of Pirates, courses on the American Revolution and Early Republic. In University Honors, my classes have included a course on Food and Culture team taught with someone from Family and Consumer Sciences and a course on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Most of my classes include a large discussion component and usually projects that engage students with community partners. I like to see ways which can inform the public and help us better understand where we been, where we are, and where we are going.
Why I like to teach honors courses: 
It gives me a chance to talk about books, learn new ways at looking at the past, and interact with curious and creative students. Who wouldn’t want to do that?
Emeritus: 
No