Rate My Professor James Crozier

James Crozier serves as Associate Teaching Professor of Classical Studies and Director of Undergraduate Studies in the Department of Classics, Archaeology, and Religion within the College of Arts and Science at the University of Missouri-Columbia. In this role, he guides undergraduate programming, advises students, and contributes to departmental leadership. Crozier earned the 2026 William T. Kemper Fellowship for Teaching Excellence, one of five such annual awards at the university, accompanied by a $15,000 stipend. This recognition highlights his profound impact on student learning and pedagogical innovation.

A trailblazer in online education, Crozier spearheaded the development of more than a dozen online courses in classical studies over a decade ago, ensuring the preservation of disciplinary rigor through meticulously crafted digital materials. These initiatives expanded access for diverse learners, supported fulfillment of campus requirements, and generated significant revenue. Holding certifications in Excellence in Online Teaching and from the Association of College and University Educators in effective teaching practices, he exemplifies best practices in digital pedagogy. Crozier also delivers engaging in-person courses such as Classical Mythology, Ancient Authors: The Romans, Achilles in Vietnam, and Greek and Latin in English. His lectures captivate audiences by weaving in excerpts from modern media, including episodes from The Wire and True Detective, to demonstrate enduring links between ancient texts and contemporary narratives, fostering a dynamic appreciation of classical antiquity.

Crozier's service extends across the university. As the Arts and Science Humanities representative on the MU Faculty Council, he chairs the Academic Affairs Committee and co-chairs the Campus Space Committee. He participates in the Provost’s General Education Task Force and the Campus Writing Program High Enrollment Task Force. Furthermore, he advises the Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity, nurturing student leadership and community engagement. Colleagues regard him as a vital resource for overcoming technical hurdles in course design, while students credit his mentorship for inspiring critical thinking and interdisciplinary connections.