Jack A. Cranford honored with emeritus status

Jack A. Cranford

Jack A. Cranford

BLACKSBURG, Va., Nov. 14, 2008 – Jack A. Cranford, associate professor of biological sciences in the College of Science at Virginia Tech, was conferred the "associate professor emeritus" title by the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors during the board's quarterly meeting on Nov. 3.

The title of emeritus may be conferred on retired professors and associate professors, administrative officers, librarians, and exceptional staff members who have given exemplary service to the university and who are specially recommended to the board of visitors by Virginia Tech President Charles W. Steger. Nominated individuals who are approved by the board of visitors receive an emeritus certificate from the university.

A member of the Virginia Tech community since 1977, Cranford is internationally known for his research in the field of ecology of small mammals. He has published more than 50 peer-reviewed journal articles in the field. He served as chair or member of multiple committees for the Virginia Academy of Science and the American Society of Mammalogists.

As assistant and associate head for advising in the Department of Biological Sciences from 2002 to 2008, Cranford’s leadership of the program resulted in the department being named a University Exemplary Department for Advising. He also received the biology department’s Most Influential Professor Award by the Class of 2004, the University Alumni Undergraduate Advising Award in 2004, and the National Academic Advising Association Faculty Academic Advising Award in 2005.

He received his bachelor’s degree and master’s degree from San Francisco State University and a Ph.D. from the University of Utah.