Faculty

Dr. Best is the university’s astrophysicist (overseeing the Shepherd University Observatory and teaching courses in astronomy, physics, and physical science). His primary research areas are the large-scale structure of the Universe, galaxy evolution, and the history of astronomy/astronomy education. In addition, he serves as Shepherd University’s Assistant Vice President for Strategic Planning, Partnerships, and Institutional Effectiveness, overseeing numerous institutional-level initiatives related to university planning and implementation, institutional and programmatic continuous improvement efforts, and collaborative external partnerships. He is also a member of the American Council on Education Fellows Class of 2015-16.

He currently serves in a number of additional capacities, including:
Peer Review Corps Member, Higher Learning Commission
Council Member, West Virginia Science and Research Council
Executive Committee Member, Shepherd University Foundation
Affiliate Member, WVU Center for Gravitational Waves and Cosmology
Alternate Faculty Representative, West Virginia Advisory Council of Faculty

Future Students