University of Georgia Award for Excellence in Teaching Recognizes Outstanding Faculty Members
Two faculty members at the University of Georgia have been honored with the prestigious Award for Excellence in Teaching for the 2024-2025 academic year. Maryann E. Gallagher, a senior lecturer in the department of international affairs, and Allison G. Hale, a senior lecturer in the School of Law, have been recognized for their exceptional dedication to student engagement and success.
Maryann E. Gallagher: Fostering Engaged Learning
Maryann E. Gallagher’s teaching philosophy revolves around the idea that engaged students learn more. She creates active learning environments in her courses where students are challenged, scholarship is valued, and theories are applied to current political issues. Gallagher focuses on developing students’ analytical and critical thinking skills, improving their communication skills, and raising their awareness of the impact of personal decisions on international politics.
Gallagher’s commitment to student engagement extends beyond the classroom. She emphasizes skills-based active learning, opportunities for undergraduate research, and ongoing mentorship for students in the Security Leadership Program. Gallagher believes that research is a powerful form of student engagement and prioritizes undergraduate research in her courses. She also initiated the SPIA Undergraduate Research Colloquium to provide undergraduates with professional research experience.
Allison G. Hale: Guiding Future Legal Professionals
Allison G. Hale, a senior lecturer in the School of Law, draws on her own experiences as a first-year law student to guide her teaching approach. She believes in providing students with the tools they need to master legal skills, instilling confidence in their abilities, and treating them with respect and support. Hale teaches legal writing to first-year law students, focusing on foundational skills that will shape their legal careers.
Hale fosters an inclusive and interactive classroom environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and learning through various exercises tailored to different learning styles. She provides extensive feedback, conducts one-on-one conferences with students, and incorporates creative exercises to reinforce principles of structure and organization. Hale’s enthusiasm for teaching, energy, and humor make even the most challenging subjects approachable for her students.
The University of Georgia Award for Excellence in Teaching
The University of Georgia’s Award for Excellence in Teaching recognizes faculty members who demonstrate a commitment to teaching excellence, pedagogical innovation, and student engagement. Nominations for the award are submitted by deans and reviewed by a committee of senior faculty members and undergraduate students. Recipients of the award, such as Maryann E. Gallagher and Allison G. Hale, receive a cash prize in recognition of their outstanding contributions to teaching.
In conclusion, Maryann E. Gallagher and Allison G. Hale exemplify the qualities of outstanding educators who prioritize student engagement, mentorship, and academic excellence. Their dedication to teaching has made a positive impact on countless students at the University of Georgia. The Award for Excellence in Teaching highlights the university’s commitment to fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment for students. To learn more about the award and the exceptional faculty members who have been honored, visit the University of Georgia’s official website.
