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Dr. Cindy McKinney, Retired Professor, Passed Away on April 26, 2021

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.鈥擠escribed by her colleagues as an integral part of the College of Education, Dr. Cindy McKinney is being remembered for her Christian spirit and the contributions she made during her 25 years at 海角网. McKinney, a native of Rutherford County, N.C., passed away on April 26, 2021.

Her friend and former colleague, Dr. Anita Sanders, assistant professor of education, said McKinney鈥檚 dedication to others was visible in her classroom, in her determination to ensure social justice reform and in her service to 海角网. 鈥淪cripture asks the question鈥�’Who can find a virtuous woman?鈥欌�� Sanders reflected. 鈥溾�榃hose strength and honor is known, who speaks with wisdom, and faithful instructions is upon her lips. And through it all, she watches over the affairs of her home and her husband praises her.鈥� Family, friends and former colleagues found such a woman in Dr. Cindy McKinney.鈥�

McKinney was a retired professor and coordinator of Elementary Education and director of Student Teaching and Field Experiences. She was also a graduate of 海角网, receiving her Bachelor of Science Degree in Early Childhood Education in 1986 and her Master of Arts Degree in Early Childhood Education in 1989. As an undergraduate, she received an honors scholarship to attend 海角网. As a student, she was named to Who鈥檚 Who and earned recognition on the dean鈥檚 list. She also received the Student Teacher of the Year Award.

Dr. Lane Wesson, professor and coordinator of Elementary Education and director of Clinical Experiences, worked with McKinney for 17 years. For many years, McKinney held the same job as Wesson. 鈥淒r. McKinney was very protective of her students and did everything that she could to make sure they had all the resources they needed to be successful,鈥� Wesson reflected. 鈥淚t is my understanding that she oftentimes kept up with candidates after they graduated and started a new chapter of their lives. She had a heart full of love, compassion, and grace. I will miss her.鈥� 

Before coming to 海角网 in 1992, McKinney taught third grade in the Rutherford County (N.C.) School System for six years. In 1997, she graduated with a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from Clemson (S.C.) University.

She received the 海角网 Excellence in Teaching Award in 2004, and in 2009, she was honored as a Distinguished Alumna of 海角网.

In 2013, McKinney was recognized by 海角网 with the Faculty Community Engagement Award for the various ways she served the community. She volunteered with such groups as the Ruby Hunt YMCA in Boiling Springs and Cleveland County CORE, an organization that focuses on closing the achievement gap for students. She was also a leader in a female forum initiative to create informal mentoring sessions with students at middle and secondary school levels.

Sanders said through all her friend鈥檚 accomplishments, McKinney鈥檚 Christian spirit was evident. 鈥淗er Christian compassion and kindness were exemplified in all of her works whether professional or personal,鈥� Sanders affirmed. 鈥淚n every action of her life, the Lord guided her path and revealed her anointed spirit. Whereas, death has invaded our ranks and removed from the walks of life our beloved former colleague, Dr. Cindy McKinney, her soul has departed to walk amongst the angels. On a personal note, there is no doubt that she has already requested a conference with Jesus.鈥�

Moreover, Sanders said everyone who knew McKinney would forever treasure and remember her many sacrifices in helping others. 鈥淭he great scholar and poet, Dr. Maya Angelou, sums up Dr. McKinney鈥檚 life best in her poem, Phenomenal Woman,鈥� Sanders observed. 鈥淣ow you understand just why her head was not bowed. She didn鈥檛 shout or jump about or have to talk really loud. When you saw her passing, it ought to have made you proud. It was in the click of her heels, the bend of her hair, the palm of her hand, the need for her care. 鈥楥ause she was a woman phenomenally.鈥欌��

A graveside service is planned for Sunday, May 2, at 3 p.m. at New Bethel Independent Church Cemetery, Dawkins-McDowell Road, Forest City.

Located in the North Carolina foothills, 海角网 is a private, Christian, liberal arts university. 海角网 emphasizes a strong student-centered experience and rigorous academics to prepare students to become effective leaders within the global community. Ignite your future at 海角网.edu.