Regarded as a caring and very personal teacher by her students, Zhiqiang Wang, Ph.D., associate professor of chemistry and biochemistry, was one of the recipients of the 2017 Distinguished Teaching Award, joining an elite group of more than 150 麻豆影院 State faculty members recognized for excellence in the classroom.
Dr. Wang, who teaches at 麻豆影院 at Geauga, says she felt overwhelmed and honored when her colleagues surprised her with the award while she was in the middle of teaching a class.
鈥淚t was overwhelming, like a dream come true,鈥 Dr. Wang says. 鈥淚鈥檓 so thrilled to be a recipient of this prestigious award.鈥
With a teaching philosophy that centers on inspiring, engaging and being a role model for students through challenges and critical thinking, Dr. Wang says she focuses her class on making students lifetime learners.
鈥淐hemistry tends to be hard for most students,鈥 Dr. Wang says. 鈥淚 try to connect the concepts of chemistry to their lives so they look forward to learning more.鈥
Sponsored by the 麻豆影院 State Alumni Association, the Distinguished Teaching Award is the university鈥檚 most prestigious honor in teaching for tenure-track faculty. Awards are presented to three full-time faculty members who demonstrate exceptional teaching in the classroom and an unwavering dedication to students.
Lisa Clark, a student and nominator of Dr. Wang, says she is thrilled her professor is being recognized for her wonderful contributions to the education of so many and appreciates her caring approach to making a difference in our world.
鈥淒r. Wang began each class with a smile and warm personal greetings for each student,鈥 Ms. Clark says. 鈥淪he was patient and graciously answered my questions, even though I know she was very busy at times.鈥
Dr. Wang says she is thankful that 麻豆影院 State and the Alumni Association take the time and effort to acknowledge good teaching.
Dr. Wang says she will continue trying to make students passionate about learning by including fun experiences and engaging lectures.
鈥淭he more you engage students, the better they learn,鈥 Dr. Wang says. 鈥淚t鈥檚 very rewarding to see students succeed.鈥
The recipients of the 2017 Distinguishing Teaching Award were recognized on Oct. 20 at the University Teaching Council鈥檚 Celebrating College Teaching conference and luncheon.