Wynn honored for 50 years of service

By Natalie Nettles (Contact) | Alex City Outlook

Published Wednesday, March 10, 2010

When John Wynn began his career in education 50 years ago, he claims he had nothing but a chalkboard, a box of chalk, a book and his wit.

A half-century later, the English professor turned evening coordinator of Central Alabama Community College is still going strong.

Colleagues, friends and former students gathered Tuesday in the Betty Carol Graham Center at CACC to celebrate Wynn’s half-century career.

CACC President Steve Franks spoke during the ceremony and presented the Dean of Darkness, as Wynn is known, with both a plaque and a resolution from Betty Carol Graham in which the state representative commended Wynn’s contributions to education.

“No, I am not retiring,” Wynn said with a chuckle as he accepted the honors. “This is not a retirement party. I’ll let you know when that will be.”

Wynn began his career in 1960 at Mass Point High School in Mass Point, Miss., as an English teacher. Six years later, he moved to Alexander City to take a job as an English professor at Alex City State Junior College, now CACC.

Over the years, Wynn made many contributions to CACC, including developing the world literature program and starting both the college’s yearbook and newspaper.

Former Dean Charles Farrow praised Wynn’s accomplishments at CACC and said he was one of the best professors the college has ever had.

“One of the best things I did in many years was hire John,” Farrow said.

Former student Dennis Catrett said Wynn was the most influential teacher he ever had.

Former Jim Pearson Elementary principal Richard Wagoner said Wynn also made a big impact on him when he attended CACC as a student.

“He was one of the people who inspired me to be teacher,” Wagoner said.

Wynn said he is most proud of developing the Youth College Program in 1991, which offered community courses to elementary school students.

Wynn has also been honored twice with a National Outstanding Educator of America award, first in 1972 and then in 1995.

“I’m ready for the next 50 years,” Wynn said. “I hope they’re just as excellent as the last 50.”

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