Irons brings excitement, laughter to history classes
Anna Johnson / Reporter
Seldom are high school history courses noticeably
enlightening. In fact, the bulk of us can recall doodling in
our notebooks, daydreaming and relentlessly glancing at our
watches in hopes that time would fly by. In those days, the
sound of the bell ringing in our ears was unquestionably
glorious. But times have changed. The minute one walks into
Professor Charles Irons’ classroom, history comes
alive.
Born and raised in Chapel Hill, Irons was constantly
surrounded by devoted friends and family who helped instill
in him a feeling of unconditional happiness during his
childhood.
In contrast to the masses of high school students,
Irons’ passion for history began his junior year, and
remained embedded in him throughout his college experience at
the University of Virginia. In his years at UVA, he mulled
over two aspirations: whether to become a teacher or a
preacher. Irons’ craving to awaken people beyond the
church drove him to unearth the teacher within, enabling him
to merge two commanding pieces of his life: history and
faith.
After graduating from UVA, Irons jumped at the opportunity
to teach at Elon University, where he could enlighten
students and conduct research of his own close to home.
“I have to stay plugged in,” Irons said,
recounting why he prefers to teach at the college level.
“Students may perhaps not recognize that college level
courses provide professors equal opportunities to learn and
grow.”
While Irons said he enjoys his individual research time, he
aims at creating challenging classes in hopes that they will
be fondly remembered.
“I want students to be capable of perceiving the
consequences of individual acts and choices so they can lead
more examined lives,” Irons said.
Leading a life of eternal significance is deeply rooted in
Irons. He accentuates the value of appreciating the
difference between temporary concerns and the eternal
importance of life. This year has been pivotal in
Irons’ life as he earned his Ph.D. within months of his
marriage, and is now teaching for the first time at Elon.
In the face of his remarkable intellect and ambition, Irons
is also witty and fun. His “Lord of the Rings”
fascination, barbecue cravings and Edmond Morgan novels are
what make him so colorfully matchless.
Students who take a seat in his classroom aren’t
surprised when his enthusiasm leaves him shoeless and covered
in chalk stains. Although his vigor often triggers amusement,
he said he wishes more students would laugh at his jokes.
“They really are funny,” Irons said.
Hand over a suitcase and he’d be on a plane to his
beloved destination, Italy. But for now, Irons is positive
about remaining at Elon where he will continue to stand on
chairs, imitate historical figures, whip up laughter and
inspire every student privileged enough to walk through his
door.
| 
