A recently retired Walters State Community College faculty member has been awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Tennessee Communication Association.
Malcolm McAvoy, former associate professor of speech, received the award from former student, Robert Pratt II, now dean of the Division of Humanities at Walters State.
McAvoy retired after a 52-year teaching career. He also served as head of the speech department for many years. He joined the college the year after its opening and then began helping students become skilled and comfortable with public speaking.
McAvoy started the first Walters State Debate Team, which in 1971 won the first trophy in college history. The Debate Team has won a national championship and is regarded as one of the most competitive in the state.
“I can’t think of anyone more worthy of receiving this honor,” Pratt said. “Malcolm’s life has been one of service to others, helping thousands of students gain confidence while developing their full potential as communicators.”
Both Pratt and McAvoy have been honored as Tennessee Communicators of the Year in the past. McAvoy has earned awards for teaching, service and leadership in the field of communications.