Hataway recognized in Whos Who
As nearly a dozen students hunched over their computers at 111 Self Hall, Wednesday's opening of MC's 182nd academic year was extra special for Hataway, 61, the college's graphic design coordinator.
It marks the start of his 40th year of teaching, and the Mississippi College graduate doesn't figure to give it up anytime soon.
And why should he? The Louisville native is devoted to hobbies that include working in the yard and making canes that help people walk. But his true passion is being a top-notch educator who's a believer in his alma mater.
"What I love about MC is the overall atmosphere of this campus," Hataway said. "There are so many caring people on the faculty, the staff and mostly fine Christian students for us to work with in the classroom. Prayer is an important instrument in the success of our students and the university."
Hataway, who retired' at Hinds Community College in 2004, and began full-time teaching at MC soon after that, has enjoyed much success during his career spanning four decades. He began teaching as head of the art department at Jackson's former Central High School in 1968.
The tall Mississippian was recently honored by being included for the seventh time in "Who's Who Among American Teachers & Educators" for 2006-2007. He was saluted in the book in 1994, then 1998, 2002, 2004, 2005, 2006 and now 2007.
"The neat thing about this honor is that you are nominated by a student that you have taught," Hataway said. "This doesn't make me proud. It makes me want to give even more to my students," he said. "It's been a wonderful career. I've been really blessed."
The MC Department of Art instructor oversees a thriving graphic design program that averages 40 or more students each year.
Art work for Hataway seems to be a natural fit even at an early age. The Winston County native moved to Jackson when he was 18 months old. His parents both had an eye for detail. His father was a retired Jackson police officer and first chief of the Capitol police. His mother was a McRae's associate for more than 20 years. She sold sewing materials at the department store and was a great seamstress. A graduate of Jackson's Provine High, Hataway studied fine arts at Hinds where he received an associate degree. He went on to MC to receive his bachelor's in education as an art major and master's in graphic arts.
Hataway can't get away from the art world when he goes to his home near Raymond. His wife, Susan Tabb Hataway is a homemaker and outstanding artist. The Hataways have four sons. When he's not perched behind his computer, Michael Hataway stays involved in the community, from work as a Boy Scout leader to church activities. He also brings years of service as a member of the Jackson Police Reserve Unit and as a Raymond police officer. Hataway's list of awards include being named the National Teacher of the Year by the American Vocational Association in 1983.
"He's one of the best we've ever had as a teacher," said Hinds President Clyde Muse. His office on the Raymond campus includes watercolors by both Hataways.
Wayne VanHorn, MC's interim dean of Christian Studies & Arts, is happy to spotlight the latest honors coming to Hataway. "Michael deserves it."
PHOTO: MC graphic design instruction, Michael Hataway, recognized in "Who's Who Among American Teachers & Educators."
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