Biology Professor Elisabeth “Liz” Dingess’s dedication to her students, discipline and colleagues has been recognized with this year’s Distinguished Full-Time Faculty Award.
While she has been at Laurel Ridge for about 17 years – 15 full time – Professor Dingess said she has gotten to know many more of her colleagues through her work with the CHASE (Care, Health and Sustainability for Employees) Committee over the past few years.
She is the chair of the committee dedicated to celebrating and supporting Laurel Ridge employees, and organizing activities promoting their physical, social and mental wellness. The committee has had more outreach events of late, and she has been heavily involved with the annual 5K race for several years now.
After earning her bachelor’s degree in Biology with a minor in Chemistry from Radford University, Professor Dingess spent two years teaching at Randolph-Macon Academy in Front Royal. She then earned her master’s degree in Biology from George Mason University in 2008, and doctoral degree in Community College Leadership from Old Dominion University in 2018.
Laurel Ridge’s students remain Professor Dingess’s favorite part of her job.
“I like that they know where they want to go,” she said. “Sometimes they need a little help getting there. They’re motivated.”
Many of these students work full time and/or have families they’re taking care of, but still are motivated to further their education, said Professor Dingess.
Another enjoyable aspect of her work is serving on numerous search committees, and chairing six or so.
“I’ve really enjoyed that,” said Professor Dingess. “And, working on the CHASE Committee – that’s the fun committee.
Especially fulfilling has been helping with the Angel Tree, which is sponsored by TRiO and supported by CHASE and provides presents for needy students’ children during the holiday season.
“We have four adopted children, and I really have a passion for helping people who need it,” said Professor Dingess.
She and her husband, David – the band director at Warren County High School – adopted a group of four siblings, now ages 16-21, from the Philippines.
A letter nominating Professor Dingess for the award notes that as the science program lead for the past 10 years, her additional responsibilities have included coordinating schedules and textbooks, supporting new faculty members and overseeing program reviews.
“She has played a key role in expanding the science program at the Luray-Page Center and Fauquier Campus, supporting dual enrollment instructors, and ensuring the quality of lab spaces,” the nomination states. “Liz’s dedication to improving the student experience is demonstrated by her work revising the Bio 101 and Bio 102 lab manuals multiple times, ensuring they remain relevant and effective.
“She actively seeks out new methods to enhance student learning…always staying at the forefront of educational innovation to serve our diverse and evolving community college population.”
The nomination notes Professor Dingess brought the Virginia Branch of Microbiologists conference to Laurel Ridge for the first time in 2022, and has been actively involved in the college’s research symposium.
“I have witnessed her leadership, wisdom, and generosity of spirit firsthand,” the nomination says. “She is deeply respected by her peers for her thoughtful insights and problem-solving abilities. Liz is often described as the glue that holds the science department together.”
A native of Ojai, California, Professor Dingess has been able to combine her love of science and travel on numerous expeditions led by fellow Biology Professor Ann Simpson and her husband, Rob, a retired professor, including to Costa Rica, the Galapagos, Madagascar, Machu Pichu and South Africa.
Laurel Ridge Community College was known as Lord Fairfax Community College until June 2022. For consistency purposes, the college will be referenced as Laurel Ridge going forward.