History
At William Jewell, history is found in more than just the classroom. From the buildings to the traditions, the Jewell life is rich with history. A history major is the essence of the liberal arts, combining education, expression, and research. Students are challenged to critically consider issues of the past, as they are relevant in the present.
Small class sizes allow the possibilities for independent study and honors projects. Students can also take advantage of one of Jewell’s twenty-two overseas studies programs to enhance their knowledge and appreciation of history. On campus, students can choose from one of the following degrees:
Degree programs offered:
Distinctives:
William Jewell’s history department has a unique approach to the subject. In the spirit of truly embracing the liberal arts, religious topics and other social issues are integrated into the curriculum. Rather than eliminate these facets from the courses, students are expected to give them appropriate attention, respect, and criticism.
A history major will do more than simply prepare you for a career—it will give you a solid foundation of research, critical thinking, and analytical learning. Here are some of the things you can do with your major, in and beyond the classroom:
- A great deal of attention is given to developing and refining student writing;
- Get connected with local museums, historical sites, and historical depositories to fit your interests and your needs. Internships provide the practical learning experience to outfit you for you future career in the history field;
- Take advantage of the many historical stories that can be found on campus—figure out why Jewell Hall’s bricks make it a historical site or how General George Washington is connected to The Hill.
- If you are interested in more than one area of study, the history major is the perfect compliment for an additional major or minor.
Are you ready to make some Jewell history? Drop us an email, schedule a visit, or call us toll free (1-888-2-JEWELL).
History Faculty:
Thomas Howell, Ph.D
Professor of History and Department Chair
Dr. Howell received a B.A. from Louisiana College and an M.A. and Ph.D from Louisiana State University and was a Fulbright professor at the University of Iceland. He offers courses in both American and world history. World War II and the Middle East are his areas of special interest, but teaches additional courses in areas such as in religion in America and post-World War II American history. He came to the college in Fall, 2006, after an extensive teaching career at other institutions.
Elaine A.Reynolds, Ph.D.
Professor of History
Dr. Reynolds attended the University of New York at Buffalo for her B.A. and received an M.A. and Ph.D. from Cornell University. She teaches British history and modern European history. Her research interest is the history of law enforcement and crime in London in the 18th and 19th centuries. In 1998, Dr. Reynolds published Before the Bobbies: The Night Watch and Police Reform in Metropolitan London ,1720-1830. She was also a Visiting Fellow at Harris-Manchester College, Oxford in Fall 2001. Dr. Reynolds has been with William Jewell since 1986.
Frederick M. Spletstoser, Ph.D.
Professor of History
Dr. Spletstoser received both a B.A. and an M.A. from the University of Missouri - Kansas City, and a Ph.D. from Louisiana State University. American history is Dr. Spletstoser's area of interest. Recently, he has been working with the U.S. District courts, interviewing the older and retired judges. Dr. Spletstoser has been with the College since 1985.
Jane Woodruff, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Greek, Latin, and History
Dr. Woodruff received her Ph.D from the University of Nebraska at Lincoln in ancient history and classics. She holds a joint appointment in both the Department of Languages and the Department of History. She teaches in the area of ancient history including specific courses in ancient Greece and ancient Rome.
