The UC Davis Division of the Academic Senate is currently accepting nominations for the 1998 Awards for Distinguished Teaching. According to Arthur Shapiro, chairperson of nominations committee and professor of evolution and ecology, the award encompasses a teacher who shines as a real role model.
Every person nominated is unique.
Some people have gotten the award for their fantastic dedication, some are motivating, and others are such splendid role models that they impressed students with the beauty and importance of their disciplines. Shapiro added that the award winners in previous years have included a diverse group of teachers. The award is not really a popularity contest, but should reflect uncommon leadership, skills, creativity and effectiveness as a teacher. Too often, because of the demands that faculty place on research, teaching takes a back burner to promotion and advancement in research. Fitzgerald added that the entire process of the nomination adds meaning to the award as well.