Gordon State College Faculty Recognition Spotlights Dedication to Teaching, Lifelong Learning
By Karolina Philmon, GSC marketing manager
For Dr. Caesar Perkowski, teaching is both a profession and a passion. As a professor of English at Gordon State College, his joy comes from seeing students grow in confidence and curiosity. Since joining the college in 2007, he has built a classroom environment that blends knowledge, enthusiasm and genuine care for his students. That same dedication recently earned him one of Gordon State’s highest honors, the 2025 Faculty Award.
Perkowski’s academic journey reflects a lifelong commitment to learning. He has earned seven degrees from institutions including Brigham Young University, the University of Gdańsk, Georgia College and Georgia State University. His studies span English, linguistics, anthropology and religious studies, each adding depth to his teaching and perspective. Never one to stand still, he is pursuing two additional degrees, one from Georgia State University and another from the Georgia Institute of Technology, continuing to expand the scope of his expertise.
Blending insight from his diverse fields of study, Perkowski brings a multifaceted perspective to every course he teaches. His classes span topics such as the history of the English language, Chaucer, world religions and composition. He believes literature and language are best understood when explored through multiple lenses, and his classroom discussions reflect that energy and curiosity. For him, every course is an opportunity to connect ideas across time, culture and experience.
“The multitude of interpretations of literary works not only interests but also energizes me,” Perkowski said. “The whole process of writing helps me understand how others come up with ideas and then execute them in writing.”
At the heart of his teaching is a deep respect for students as individuals. Perkowski said his greatest joy comes from seeing their intellectual progress and confidence grow throughout the semester. In his classes, students find an instructor who treats them not just as learners but as people with unique experiences and perspectives.
“I hope that when my students one day think about their experiences in my classroom, they will remember my excitement and passion for teaching and how I kept class discussions lively and fresh regardless of how many times these had been done before,” Perkowski said.
Perkowski’s influence extends well beyond the classroom. He has contributed to campus life through leadership and mentorship, serving on committees such as Faculty Development, Promotion and Tenure, Student Scholarships and IT and e-Learning. As editor of the Journal of Studies in Popular Culture, he remains active in his field, presenting and publishing interdisciplinary research that bridges literature, culture and technology. His work reflects a dedication not only to academic excellence but also to fostering a supportive and innovative learning environment at Gordon State.
That same commitment to teaching, scholarship and service earned Perkowski the 2025 Faculty Award, one of Gordon State’s highest honors. The award recognizes faculty who exemplify the college’s mission through academic excellence, student engagement and leadership across campus.
“Becoming a full professor of English is still my most meaningful academic and professional achievement,” Perkowski said. “However, the 2025 Faculty Award comes in a close second. Presenting numerous travelogues on campus also made me feel appreciated in a more personal way.”
To Perkowski, Gordon State represents more than a workplace. It is where he discovered fulfillment and balance. Through his years of teaching, mentoring and scholarship, he has found joy in watching students grow and in growing alongside them.
“Gordon has opened my eyes to what is possible academically, professionally and personally,” he said. “I’ve learned what it means to be happy and how to maintain a healthy life and work balance.”
His journey reflects the heart of the Highlander spirit, one defined by curiosity, connection and a lifelong love of learning.