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Both are thoughtful and innovative scholars. Both are reflective and adaptive educators who take the time and effort to ensure that their teaching hits the mark with students. Both care deeply about access and engagement and prioritize authenticity in the student experience. It is my honor to count them among our tenured faculty.
Provost and Dean of the Faculty Melissa Glenn
At its May 2026 meeting, the Knox College Board of Trustees voted to grant tenure and promotion to two faculty members: Mark Slabodnick, biology, and Moheb Zidan, economics. Both will be promoted to associate professor.
In her recommendation for tenure and promotion, Provost and Dean of the Faculty Melissa Glenn shared that Associate Professors Slabodnick and Zidan are exquisite examples of the power of the liberal arts and what that looks like in the classroom and beyond.
Mark Slabodnick
Associate Professor of Biology
Education: B.S., Ohio State University; Ph.D., University of California, San Francisco
What does a Knox College education mean to you?
Engaging with our community in a variety of ways is a powerful aspect of the Knox College educational experience, and I encourage all students to find ways to do so while they are here. These can be everyday interactions, like having lunch with colleagues from across campus or working with students during specifically focused experiences in some of the special programs around campus. For example, I am looking forward to teaching a First-Year Preceptorial cluster with my colleagues from history, music, and religious studies and to discussing games and culture with students as they relate to our specific areas of expertise. These types of interdisciplinary opportunities are vital for challenging yourself to dig deeper into topics you might otherwise overlook.
Moheb Zidan
Associate Professor of Economics
Education: B.A. & M.A., University of Haifa; M.S. & Ph.D., University of Wisconsin-Madison
What is your approach to making sure students get the most out of their time in your classroom?
I try to create a classroom where students feel comfortable asking questions, thinking critically, and connecting ideas to the world around them. I want students to see economics not just as theory or equations, but as a tool for understanding real social issues and people’s lived experiences. I also believe students learn best when they are actively engaged, so I often incorporate discussions, collaborative work, data projects, and research-based activities into my courses.