Deadline Approaches for West Virginia’s Professor of the Year Nominations
Nominations for the prestigious title of West Virginia’s Professor of the Year are due this Friday, November 22. Established in 1984, the Faculty Merit Foundation of West Virginia aims to highlight the vital role of exceptional teaching within both public and private higher education institutions across the state.
Ken Sullivan, a board member of the Faculty Merit Foundation, emphasized the organization’s mission to recognize and reward excellence in college teaching. “The Foundation has just one purpose, and that is to encourage innovation and creativity among faculty,” Sullivan stated. He noted that while professors engage in research, the Foundation specifically champions the significance of effective teaching, which benefits students and enhances the quality of higher education in West Virginia.
The award allows smaller colleges to shine, as they often produce competitive candidates. Over the past decade, faculty from seven different West Virginia colleges and universities have claimed the accolade, including renowned institutions like West Virginia University (WVU) and Marshall University. However, Sullivan highlighted Shepherd University and West Liberty University for their consistent success, particularly in the natural sciences.
A diverse array of disciplines is represented among the nominees, encompassing fields from music and mathematics to the arts and humanities. Sullivan noted, "We typically receive well-rounded applications from various fields, showcasing the breadth of talent in our educational system."
The recipient of the Professor of the Year award will receive a $10,000 prize, with finalists expected to be announced in the spring. The approaching deadline serves as a reminder for nominations to shine a light on the dedicated educators who shape West Virginia’s future.
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Photo credit wvpublic.org
