Discover the Passion for Nature: Meet Malone University’s Inspiring Biology Professor, Jason Courter!

Admin

Discover the Passion for Nature: Meet Malone University’s Inspiring Biology Professor, Jason Courter!

For Jason Courter, teaching is more than a job; it’s a passion. A biology professor at Malone University, he loves sharing his enthusiasm for nature with students. “It’s thrilling to see students light up when they spot a new bird or tree,” he says. His aim is to make every walk on campus a mini adventure, linking education and nature together.

Jason has spent over 12 years at Malone. He finds joy in guiding students toward their career paths. It’s especially rewarding to witness the growth of the university’s network of graduates across the nation.

With a doctorate in wildlife ecology from Clemson University and a master’s in biology from Eastern Kentucky University, Jason’s journey began in high school, teaching biology and earth science in Virginia. He later taught environmental science in Indiana before settling in Ohio.

Besides classroom teaching, he has taken students on exciting summertime adventures to places like the Rocky Mountains and Nantucket. “Those hands-on experiences really bring learning to life,” he notes.

Growing up on a tree farm in Michigan, Jason learned the importance of hard work and community. He and his wife Lynn now live in Canton, raising four children: Anna, Nolan, Eliza, and Audrey.

When asked what inspired him to pursue biology, Jason points back to his childhood. “Fishing and working on the tree farm sparked my love for nature. In college, I often chose projects related to the environment,” he explains. By his sophomore year, he was set on becoming a biology teacher. A few years into his master’s program, he confirmed his desire to teach and lead college-level field trips.

At Malone, he appreciates the chance to blend his teaching with his interests. The university stands out among over 100 Christian institutions in North America for emphasizing zoo science and wildlife programs, which fits perfectly with his passions. Each year, he teaches ornithology, diving deep into the study of birds.

Animals at Malone’s campus zoo each have unique stories, many rescued from perilous situations. The diverse collection—ranging from birds to reptiles—offers students hands-on learning opportunities. As part of their mission, they maintain a permit for certain native wildlife that cannot be released back into the wild.

When reflecting on gratitude, Jason mentions his relationship with Jesus Christ. “It gives me joy and hope,” he says. He values deeply the support from his family, friends, and colleagues, reminding us that community is vital, especially in education.

This blend of personal passion and professional commitment illustrates how impactful teaching can be. As more educators like Jason rise to inspire the next generation, we can expect a deeper appreciation for nature and science among young learners.



Source link

Story,Highlights,AI,Enabled,Malone,University,Canton,,OH,Stark,County,,OH,Wildlife,Environment,and,Nature,Clemson,University,Eastern,Kentucky,University,OH,Content,Sharing,-,Stark,Only,Article,Plus,Overall,Positive,Colleges,\u0026,Universities,Biological,Sciences,Story Highlights AI Enabled,Malone University,Canton, OH,Stark County, OH,Wildlife,Environment and Nature,Clemson University,Eastern Kentucky University,OH Content Sharing – Stark Only,Article Plus,Overall Positive,Colleges \u0026 Universities,Biological Sciences