Faculty

Dr. Anderson, a Judson alumnus (’86), serves as Director of Judson’s Demoss Center for Worship in the Performing Arts, with responsibilities that include directing the Judson University Choir and teaching in the Worship Arts and Music departments.

Judson President Dr. Gene Crume earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Public Relations and his Master’s degree in Communications from Western Kentucky University. He went on to earn his Ph.D. in Education with a concentration in Organizational Leadership from the University of Virginia. Throughout his career, he has been committed to passing on his experience and knowledge by serving as an assistant professor or adjunct instructor for classes in business, public relations, and communications at several institutions. He is currently teaching Media Arts 443: Fundamentals of Public Relations at Judson.

Sharon Kim, Professor of English, specializes in late 19th to early 20th-century American literature, with a particular interest in aspects of Christian faith and spirituality in literature. She is the author of Literary Epiphany in the Novel, 1850-1950: Constellations of the Soul (Palgrave, 2012), winner of the 2013 Book of the Year award from the Conference on Christianity and Literature.

Chris Lash has served as the Dean of University Ministries for nearly a decade, a ministry for which he speaks frequently in Judson’s chapels. He received formal training at Moody Bible Institute and added a MA in Theology from Wheaton College. Chris teaches Foundations of Speech for Judson in the Communication Arts Department.

Dr. Kristy Piebenga has been a passionate educator for over 15 years. She spent many years teaching in second, third, and fourth-grade classrooms before transitioning to the university level. She now shares her passion for literacy education with both undergraduate and graduate students

Dr. Ryan Schaefer is an adjunct professor at Judson University. He teaches in the Communication Arts and Education departments. In addition, Dr. Schaefer is an assistant principal at a K-5 Elementary School in Crystal Lake. He graduated from Judson’s Master of Education in Literacy and Doctor of Education in Literacy programs.

David Alan Smith is a graduate of Judson’s Master of Education in Literacy and Doctor of Education in Literacy programs. He teaches in both the Communication Arts Department and the Division of Education and enjoys presenting on communication, language, and education at state and local events. David is married to Katie, also a Judson alum, and together they have two wonderful children.