Dr. Mahdi Ganjvar | Social Sciences | Research Excellence Award

Associate Professor at University of Isfahan |Iran

Dr. Mahdi Ganjvar is a highly respected scholar in the Social Sciences whose career reflects a deep commitment to advancing philosophical thought, ethical inquiry, and the intellectual study of human development and societal progress. With strong academic foundations built through formal studies in Islamic philosophy and theology at undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral levels, he has developed a rigorous academic trajectory grounded in classical philosophical traditions and their relevance to contemporary discourse. Dr. Mahdi Ganjvar has extensive academic and administrative experience, having contributed to multiple scholarly committees, curriculum development efforts, postgraduate supervision, and participation in academic conferences at national and international levels. He has published widely in leading journals, producing influential research that bridges traditional philosophical frameworks with modern societal concerns, demonstrating an ability to translate complex theoretical principles into practical insights. His scholarly impact is supported by 62 citations, an h-index of 5, and an i10-index of 2, showcasing the growing influence and sustained engagement his work has achieved in the academic community. Dr. Mahdi Ganjvar’s research interests span philosophical theology, ethical education, the role of reason in social life, liberation theology, intercultural dialogue, spiritual development, social ethics, the interface between philosophy and governance, and the contributions of thinkers such as Mulla Sadra, Avicenna, and other major classical philosophers to contemporary thought. His analyses frequently explore how philosophical insight can guide societal behavior, cultivate peaceful coexistence, and enrich educational systems to support holistic intellectual and moral development. Through publications, teaching, graduate supervision, and participation in academic discourse, he has made meaningful contributions to advancing intellectual scholarship and strengthening the global relevance of classical philosophical perspectives in addressing modern challenges. His ongoing work demonstrates a consistent dedication to thoughtful inquiry, academic excellence, and the creation of knowledge that informs both theoretical understanding and real-world applications. In conclusion, Dr. Mahdi Ganjvar stands as a respected voice in modern philosophical research, with a profile that reflects scholarly credibility, academic leadership, and continued contributions to the evolving landscape of philosophical and social science research.

Profile: Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications:

Ganjvar, M. (2019). Islamic model of children’s spiritual education (CSE); Its influence on improvement of communicational behaviour with non-coreligionists. International Journal of Children’s Spirituality, 24(2), 124–139.

Ganjvar, M. (2020). Faith in God, philanthropy and foundations of criticism of religious violence in Mulla Sadra’s philosophy. HTS Teologiese Studies/Theological Studies, 76(1).

Ganjvar, M. (2022). Philosophy for children (PFC) as an educational practice to promote peace and non-violent coexistence. South African Journal of Philosophy, 41(1), 49–60.

Ganjvar, M.,(2018). Religious normative pluralism in Imam Mahdi’s mode of conduct: Imam Mahdi’s pattern of behavior with followers of other religions. Comparative Theology, 9(19), 1–4.

Ganjvar, M. (2021). The role of communication ethics in propagating the Shiite school with emphasis on Razavi teachings. Research Quarterly in Islamic Ethics, 14(51), 93–114.

Ganjvar, M. (2024). Divine solidarity with the oppressed: The socio-political implications of liberation theology in the Christian-Islamic tradition. Journal of Islam and Social Sciences, 16(32), 21–41.

Ganjvar, M. (2012). Modeling the soul in Mulla Sadra’s view. Wisdom and Philosophy, 8(29), 93–116.

Ganjvar, M. (2025). Delineation of gradation neo-theocracy system based on Mullah Sadra’s epistemological opinions. Philosophical Meditations, 14(33), 203–235.

Ganjvar, M. (2023). How can philosophical education contribute to the denial of religious violence? European Journal of Science and Theology, 19(1), 1–20.

Dr. Katherine Quinn | Social Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Asssociate Professor at University of Maryland Eastern Shore | United States

Dr. Katherine A. Quinn, Associate Professor in the Department of Hospitality & Tourism Management at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, is an accomplished scholar and educator with expertise in organizational leadership, hospitality management, technology integration, and social sciences research. She earned her Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership (2008) from UMES, an MBA in Finance (1992) from the University of Maryland, Smith School of Business, and a B.S. in Business Management, Cum Laude (1989), from the University of Maryland, College Park. Her professional career bridges both academia and industry, beginning with leadership roles at Hilton Hotels, Hampshire Towers Hotel, and MICROS Systems Inc., before transitioning into higher education, where she has served as Lecturer, Assistant Professor, and now Associate Professor. Dr. Quinn’s research interests encompass diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) needs assessment in higher education, generative AI and the Metaverse in travel and tourism, technology-enhanced learning, digital literacy, culturally responsive teaching, and student success factors such as grit and self-discipline in online education. She has published extensively in refereed journals such as Trends in Higher Education, Issues in Informing Science and Information Technology, Journal of Education and Human Development, and Journal of Foodservice Business Research, and presented her work at major international conferences including InSITE and ICAIRD. Her research skills are evidenced in survey design, mixed-methods assessment, technology adoption analysis, and cross-disciplinary collaboration, including her role as Co-PI in the Elkins Fellowships for the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning. Dr. Quinn’s honors include the 2019 Honors Teacher of the Year Award, induction into Phi Kappa Phi, and multiple awards for innovation and marketing during her industry career. With certifications such as Certified Hospitality Educator, Certification in Hotel Industry Analytics, and a Diversity and Inclusion Certificate, along with active memberships in ISI, ICHRIE, HFTP, and AHLA, she combines academic rigor with professional leadership. In conclusion, Dr. Quinn stands out as an influential researcher and educator whose interdisciplinary expertise, impactful publications, leadership in academia, and dedication to advancing equity and innovation in education and hospitality mark her as a deserving candidate for recognition and continued scholarly distinction.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications:

Quinn, K. A. (2008). Management perceptions of important workplace competencies (SCANS) in the hospitality industry [Doctoral dissertation, University of Maryland Eastern Shore].

Quinn, K. A. (2012). The importance of technology, systems, and information skills in the hospitality industry. Consortium Journal of Hospitality & Tourism Management, 17(1), 66–82.

Quinn, K. A. (2013). The importance of resource and interpersonal skills in the hospitality industry. Journal of Foodservice Business Research, 16(5), 439–447.

Buzzetto-Hollywood, N., Quinn, K., Wang, W., & Hill, A. (2019). Grit in online education. Journal of Education, Society and Behavioural Science, 30(4), 1–11.

Quinn, K., & Buzzetto-Hollywood, N. (2019). Faculty and student perceptions of the importance of management skills in the hospitality industry. Interdisciplinary Journal of e-Skills and Lifelong Learning, 15, 21–42.

Buzzetto-Hollywood, N., & Quinn, K. (2024). Technology behaviors of Generation Z learners. Journal of Education and Human Development, 13(1), 53–58.

Hollywood, N., & Quinn, K. (2025). DEI research in higher education: Results from a study at an American minority-serving institution. Trends in Higher Education, 4(3), 49–59.

Buzzetto-Hollywood, N., & Quinn, K. (2025). Designing and validating a comprehensive institution-wide DEI needs assessment. Issues in Informing Science and Information Technology, 22, Article 6.

Featured Publications:

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