Outstanding Faculty Service Award
Description
The purpose of this award is to recognize and honor the exemplary service of university faculty who have gone above and beyond in their support of individuals from historically marginalized groups and those at heightened risk within the university community. This recognition is specifically aimed at those who have made significant contributions to diversity, equity, and inclusion on campus and supporting Supporting equitable outcomes for students from underrepresented groups through mentoring and student support, student advising, cultural and language acquisition, peer mentoring and training, committee service, and/or course/ curriculum development to improve student access and success.
Eligibility
All full-time faculty members who have been employed at the university for at least three years are eligible for this award. Nominees must demonstrate a consistent and sustained commitment to supporting diversity and inclusion within the university community through 3 or more contributions in the following areas (but not limited to).
1. Mentoring and Student Support
The nominee should have a proven track record of mentoring and supporting individual students, particularly those from historically underrepresented and at-risk groups, providing academic guidance, personal support, career advice and helping them to achieve their academic and personal goals.
Mentoring student groups or clubs that serve underrepresented students.
2. Student Advocacy and Advising
Advising Excellence: The nominee should demonstrate excellence in advising students, helping them to navigate their academic, social, and personal journeys to achieve success. This includes providing support, guidance and advocacy for students from diverse backgrounds and those facing unique challenges.
3. Language and Cultural Acquisition
Support for Language Learners: The nominee should have implemented or significantly contributed to initiatives that assist students with transition, language and cultural acquisition. This may include developing language support programs, cultural exchange opportunities, or other resources aimed at helping students navigate linguistic and cultural challenges.
4. Service on University Committees
The nominee should have actively participated in one or more university committees, advocated for, contributing to the development and implementation of policies and programs that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion and incorporate best practices.
5. Peer Mentoring and Training
Training Programs: The nominee should have developed or facilitated peer training programs that address the needs of underrepresented and at-risk students. These programs may include workshops, seminars, or other training sessions focused on inclusive teaching practices, cultural competency, and support strategies.
Mentorship: The nominee should demonstrate a strong commitment to mentoring peers, providing guidance and support to colleagues in their efforts to foster a more inclusive and supportive academic environment.
6. Study Abroad Experiences
Program Development: The nominee should have developed or facilitated study abroad experiences that are accessible to historically underrepresented and at-risk students. This includes creating opportunities for students to gain international experience and broaden their cultural perspectives.
Support for International Students: The nominee should also demonstrate a commitment to supporting international students studying at the university, providing resources and assistance to help them succeed academically and personally.
7. University Recruitment and Outreach
Recruitment Efforts: The nominee should have actively participated in or led university recruitment efforts aimed at attracting historically underrepresented and at-risk students. This includes developing outreach programs, attending recruitment events, and building relationships with community organizations.
Outreach Initiatives: The nominee should have developed or significantly contributed to outreach initiatives that promote the university's commitment to diversity and inclusion. This may include partnerships with local schools, community organizations, and other institutions.
8. Course and Curriculum Development
Impact on Student Access and Success: The nominee should have led or significantly contributed to course and curriculum redesign initiatives aimed at improving student access and success. This includes developing new courses or modifying existing ones to make them more inclusive and accessible to historically underrepresented and at-risk students.
Award Details
Educators can receive this award no more frequently than once every ten years.
The award will consist of:
- display of the faculty member's picture on a plaque in a common area
- a plaque given to the faculty member
- an honorary seat at the spring graduation ceremony
- a spotlight article detailing the educator's pedagogical accomplishments
- a reserved parking spot on campus the following year
The award will be presented to the Educator of the Year at the University Honors and Award ceremony.
Past Recipients
- Dr. Margaret Mbindyo, Exploratory Studies & Student Development