Teaching

Teaching Cross-Culturally

Throughout Dr. Sheppard’s career as an educator, he has demonstrated a deep commitment to fostering academic excellence, personal growth, and Christian discipleship across a diverse range of teaching environments. Dr. Sheppard’s teaching journey spans over 25 years and includes significant experience in military instruction, higher education, church ministry, and professional business training.

Additionally, Dr. Sheppard has engaged in cross-cultural teaching, where he taught in a multicultural setting that emphasized inclusivity, adaptability, and respect for diverse cultural perspectives. This experience not only enriched Dr. Sheppard’s instructional approach but also equipped him to communicate effectively across cultural boundaries—whether in academic, faith-based, or professional contexts. Dr. Sheppard continues to draw upon these cross-cultural competencies to ensure that his teaching is relevant, engaging, and transformative for all learners.

Diverse Teaching Experience

  • Military Instruction (4 years): As an expert in Tactical Operations Center (TOC) setup and operations, Dr. Sheppard has instructed soldiers in critical, high-stakes environments including training centers such as Camp McCain and Camp Shelby. His approach emphasized clarity, adaptability, and practical application—skills essential for effective learning, operational readiness, and mission success in dynamic field conditions.
  • Trinity Bible Institute (8 years): Dr. Sheppard has taught a variety of courses, integrating theological rigor with practical ministry application. Subjects included biblical studies, pastoral leadership, and Christian ethics. His students consistently demonstrated growth in biblical knowledge and spiritual maturity, as evidenced by their active engagement in ministry and service in local churches and missions.
  • Church Ministry (25 years): Dr. Sheppard has taught and preached weekly in diverse church settings, nurturing disciples and equipping congregants for service. His teaching has been characterized by clarity, empathy, and a commitment to scriptural truth, fostering a supportive and transformative learning community rooted in faith and purpose.
  • Professional Business Education (20 years): In Dr. Sheppard’s business career, he has taught business management, real estate, banking and finance, and marketing to professionals and aspiring entrepreneurs in North Mississippi. Through seminars and training sessions held at our 4,000-square-foot corporate lending training facility in New Albany, MS, Dr. Sheppard has provide real-world knowledge grounded in ethical and biblical principles.
  • Fire Service Instruction (10 years): Dr. Sheppard has provided fire safety and emergency preparedness training at local schools and community organizations. This includes fire prevention, evacuation protocols, and first-response techniques tailored for school-aged children and faculty, promoting safety and awareness at the grassroots level.
  • Certified Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Self-Defense Instructor (20 years): Dr. Sheppard has offer self-defense seminars under the Gracie Certified platform, focusing on practical, accessible techniques for personal safety. These sessions emphasize discipline, confidence, and situational awareness, empowering individuals to protect themselves and others.
  • NRA Certified Instructor (10 years): As an NRA-certified instructor, Dr. Sheppard has conduct firearms safety training and “Refuse to Be a Victim” seminars. These courses stress responsible gun ownership, situational awareness, and legal considerations, equipping participants with knowledge and skills for personal and family protection.
  • Cross-Cultural Teaching Internship: During Dr. Sheppard’s master’s program, he completed a cross-cultural teaching internship, delivering instruction in a multicultural setting that emphasized inclusivity, respect, and adaptability. This experience enhanced his ability to connect with diverse learners and tailor content to various cultural contexts—whether in ministry, education, or professional development.

Dr. Sheppard strives to create inclusive, ethics-centered learning environments where every student is valued as a unique creation made in the image of God. His classrooms foster collaboration, mutual respect, and intellectual curiosity, encouraging students to become lifelong learners and critical thinkers.

Dr. Sheppard integrates ethics, moral values, and philosophical wisdom into every aspect of his teaching, empowering students to discern truth and make morally sound decisions. By employing diverse instructional methods—including technology, real-world case studies, and experiential learning—I accommodate various learning styles and promote active engagement.

Mentorship and Student Outcomes
Dr. Sheppard’s role as an educator extends beyond instruction; He is committed to mentoring students on their ethics journey and professional development. Many of his former students have gone on to serve as leaders in ministry, business, and their communities, demonstrating the lasting impact of a ethics-centered education.

Conclusion
In summary, Dr. Sheppard’s teaching record reflects a dedication to academic excellence, moral integrity, and spiritual growth. He is devoted to equipping students to become lifelong learners who lead with wisdom, compassion, and faith. Dr. Sheppard looks forward to bringing this commitment and experience to a variety of people groups worldwide.