Susan Riner

Spanning more than four decades and three academic divisions, Susan Riner has made a lasting impact on Oxford College through her teaching, mentorship, and service. She began her career in the Natural Sciences and Mathematics Division, teaching courses ranging from calculus to game theory and designing Oxford’s first mathematics lab, a collaborative learning space that supported student success. As a pianist and organist, she served in the Humanities Division as the Oxford Chorale accompanist, performed at convocations and baccalaureates, and played in musical productions, including a specially commissioned cantata for Emory’s sesquicentennial celebration. Most recently, in the History and Social Sciences Division, she helped develop Oxford’s Quantitative Theory and Methods (QTM) course and lab program.

Susan’s excellence in teaching has been recognized with multiple prestigious awards, including the Emory Williams Distinguished Teaching Award, the Phi Eta Sigma Honor Society Teaching Award, and the Crystal Apple Award for Teaching Excellence, the highest honor given by students on the Atlanta campus. She was also the first recipient of Emory’s Faculty Member of the Year Award from the Office of Accessibility Services and has been honored by Phi Beta Kappa and Mortar Board Honor Societies for her outstanding contributions to education.

Beyond the classroom, Susan has dedicated over 20 years as Advisor to Dooley’s Dolls and more than 10 years as a faculty facilitator in Freshman Seminar and Learning to Lead programs, engaging students in activities ranging from community service projects to cultural outings. She has led students in service efforts such as packing medical supplies, visiting shelters, tutoring, and environmental beautification projects. Additionally, she has planned and participated in student outings to Atlanta landmarks including the Aquarium, Zoo, and Carter Center.

When asked what Susan cherishes most about Oxford, her response was “Beyond the stunning beauty of the Oxford campus, with its towering trees and historic buildings that hold the stories of generations of students, what I cherish most is the warm and welcoming community. In just a brief walk, you might chat with a student excited to show off a picture of their family dog, pause to discuss a colleague's recent presentation at a national conference, or enjoy a conversation with a staff member who not only resolves a pressing issue but also shares a heartfelt story about their grandchild. At Oxford, we share a love of place, purpose, and each other.”