Richard Smith, the 1998-1999 Texas Professor of the Year, can often be found during the lunch hour in the Hanszen College commons surrounded by a table full of students in animated discussion. To an observer, Smith and his students seem to have a wonderful time as they talk, gesture and laugh. Minds are engaged.
Eating seems to be a low priority.
As one member of the faculty said, Smith has a way of turning conversations with students not only into social occasions but also into educational occasions. That is one reason Smith is a successful teacher. On Oct. 8, Smith was named the Texas Professor of the Year by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching and the Council for Advancement and Support of Education. The award is given in recognition of extraordinary dedication to teaching, commitment to students and innovative teaching methods. Smith credits Rice with providing a teacher-friendly environment.