Criteria

The members of the Pamplin Society have tried to create a list of criteria for what we feel the Teacher of the Year should embody. We have decided that these four criteria should be considered.

The ideal Teacher of the Year candidate would:

1) Excel in the classroom by

  • Demonstrating organization and preparedness
  • Providing guidance and support in discussions and/or lab sessions
  • Forging a strong connection and professional relationship with many kinds of students; and,
  • Engaging students in both upper division and lower level courses.

2) Exude Passion

  • Inspiring, engaging, and challenging students
  • Demonstrating excitement for their field of study, thus
  • Fostering creativity

3) Serve as a mentor and role model by

  • Being involved and engaging with students and the campus community
  • Making themselves available for consultation outside of class
  • Maintaining approachability
  • Showing interest in and caring for students
  • Going above and beyond require duties; and,
  • Serving as a trusted advisor, formally or informally.

4) Demonstrate adaptability and flexibility

  • Being willing to learn from students and receptive to new ideas
  • Creating an environment conductive to learning, and
  • Catering to multiple learning styles.

All Members of the faculty are considered eligible for the award, regardless of rank, tenure, or department. Candidates are to be judged primarily on the quality, then the quantity, of the letters of support they receive.