David Dudley, Ph.D., receives Patriot Award

David Dudley, Ph.D., receives Patriot Award

David Dudley, Ph.D., Chair of the Department of Literature and Philosophy at Georgia Southern, was presented with the Patriot Award on Friday by the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Organization after being nominated by philosophy major and active duty military member Staff Sgt. Amber Augustine.

The Patriot Award is presented to employers or supervisors who are supportive and understanding of service members’ need for flexible schedules, time off prior to and after deployment and more. Augustine nominated Dudley for the award for his support of her education while serving in the military, including working on her education while being deployed, participating in training activities and more.

“Dr. Dudley has been more than accommodating to my service in the Army National Guard. I have missed multiple semesters for deployments, and every semester back, he picks up my advisement as if I was never gone,” said Augustine, who will graduate in May. “He has given me overrides into classes when training and deployments prevent me from registering on time. He is quick to remember my service and takes extra time with me to ensure the classes I take supplement the career goals I have.”

Dudley was surprised and honored when he learned he would receive the award. He believes in helping non-traditional students excel, especially students who simultaneously serve their country and further their education.

“It was an honor and a privilege to help Sgt. Augustine in balancing her military duties and academic career, and I would help any other active duty military member just the same. I don’t consider this out of the ordinary,” Dudley said. “I myself was not in the military, but two of my sons and my son-in law are, and we have many great friends who are in the armed forces. It’s important we help those who serve our country to make the most of their education while they have the opportunity.”

Chuck Clark, the area representative for the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Organization, was on hand to help present Dudley with the award, and he noted the organization is thankful for the support Dudley and Georgia Southern provided to Augustine and to other military members.

“The Employer Support of the Guard is dedicated to honoring people and employers who are honoring our service members and making recognition available for them,” Clark said.