Nominations are now open for the 2016-17 Distinguished Teaching Awards. The awards recognize faculty members for their dedication and expertise in teaching.

“There are five different awards under the umbrella of the Distinguished Teaching Awards,” said Senior Vice Provost Susan Anderson. “The awards highlight faculty members for excellence at different points in their careers and for different areas of teaching expertise.”

The Herman Awards for faculty achievement and specialized pedagogy are presented to faculty who have demonstrated long-standing excellence in teaching. Early career faculty are eligible for the Ersted Awards for distinguished teaching and specialized pedagogy.

A new award has been added to the distinguished teaching lineup this year- the Herman Award for Outstanding Online Education. The new award recognizes faculty at any stage of their career who have demonstrated innovation and creativity using online or hybrid course formats.

Nominations and award selection are a guarded secret until May, when the president, provost and other members of senior leadership surprise recipients in their classes with either a coveted crystal or myrtlewood apple. Awardees also receive a financial award and certificate and are honored at a reception in the spring.

Faculty, staff, students and alumni are encouraged to submit nominations by Feb. 10. More information about the awards and the nomination process can be found on the Academic Affairs website.