Susan C. Shelmerdine

Exploring transformative approaches to classical studies, Professor Emerita Susan C. Shelmerdine has been a distinguished member of the faculty at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro from 1981 until her retirement in 2022. With a Ph.D. from the University of Michigan, earned in 1981, she has dedicated her academic career to the exploration and teaching of early Greek poetry and the pedagogy of Greek and Latin languages. Professor Shelmerdine is renowned for her scholarly contributions, including the widely used textbook "Introduction to Greek," now in its third edition as of 2020. Her work on "The Homeric Hymns," first published in 1995 and revised in 2000, has been influential in the field, offering fresh insights into these ancient texts. Her research and publications have significantly impacted the way Greek and Latin are taught and understood in contemporary academia. Throughout her career, Professor Shelmerdine has been recognized for her excellence in teaching and scholarship. She was honored with the prestigious Order of the Long Leaf Pine in 2022, a testament to her outstanding service and contributions to the state. Her dedication to education was also acknowledged with the Merita Award in 2005 and the Alumni Teaching Excellence Award during the 1991-1992 academic year. Beyond her publications and awards, Professor Shelmerdine has been an inspiring mentor to countless students, fostering a deep appreciation for classical languages and literature. Her innovative teaching methods and commitment to student success have left a lasting legacy at UNCG and in the broader field of classics. Her work continues to inspire new generations of scholars and educators in the study of ancient languages and cultures.