Prestigious Awards Spotlight UK Faculty and Graduate Teaching Assistants

University of Kentucky Celebrates Commitment to Academic Excellence

During the opening remarks, Assistant Provost for Teaching and Learning Trey Conatser underscored the importance of celebrating educators' impactful work. He highlighted the scholarly and deeply human efforts of faculty and teaching assistants, emphasising that, according to students, these educators play a vital role in shaping academic success. Their dedication remains central to the university’s mission of fostering excellence in education.

The Outstanding Teaching Awards at the University of Kentucky recognise educators who demonstrate excellence in instruction through engaging and scholarly teaching methods, measurable impact on student achievement, and innovative curriculum design. The selection criteria also emphasise a commitment to reflective and improvement-driven teaching, contributions to institutional or academic advancement, and recognition by peers or students. In the coming weeks, UKNow will feature individual profiles of the award recipients, highlighting their achievements and contributions to education.

Alongside the teaching awards, the Graduate School recognised two faculty members with prestigious honours. Ellen D. Riggle, from the College of Arts and Sciences, received the Albert D. and Elizabeth H. Kirwan Memorial Prize, established in 1995 to celebrate collaborative research and Albert Kirwan’s contributions to fostering a strong academic and research-driven university environment.

Meanwhile, Joseph H. Hammer, from the College of Education, was awarded the William B. Sturgill Award, founded in 1975 to honour the legacy of UK alumnus William B. Sturgill. Known for his commitment to higher education, Sturgill played a key role in shaping Kentucky’s community college system and establishing the Hazard Independent College Foundation. These recognitions highlight the faculty’s dedication to advancing scholarship and education. Together, these awards reflect the University of Kentucky’s ongoing commitment to excellence in teaching, research, and the academic mission at large.

Editor's Note:

Teaching extends far beyond the pages of a textbook—true educators bring learning to life in ways that resonate deeply with their students. Recognising excellence in teaching is not merely ceremonial; it is essential to shaping the future of education. The University of Kentucky’s Outstanding Teaching Awards embody this principle by honouring educators who transcend traditional methods to create a lasting impact. These awards highlight that exceptional teaching is not just about delivering content, but about sparking curiosity, nurturing critical thinking, and making education a transformative experience. In an era where academic institutions face evolving challenges—from shifting learning environments to policy changes—celebrating educators who excel in their craft reinforces the importance of quality instruction. The faculty and graduate teaching assistants honoured this year have demonstrated the dedication and innovation required to prepare students for a dynamic world. Their commitment deserves recognition and continued support to ensure education remains a driving force in personal and professional growth.

Skoobuzz believes that these awards show an important truth: great teaching shapes students, moves education forward, and builds a university’s legacy. Honouring educators is more than a celebration—it’s a step toward a stronger future for learning.