2001 Recipients of University Professor Awards Named
Contact: Karin Sandell, (740) 593-2681
ATHENS, Ohio (May 3, 2001) -- Five Ohio University professors have been awarded the University Professor distinction for their outstanding contributions to students and education at Ohio University. This year's recipients are Professor of Classics and Charles J. Ping Professor of Humanities Thomas Carpenter, Assistant Professor of Human and Consumer Sciences Jennifer Chabot, Professor of Teacher Education Joan McMath, Assistant Professor of Interpersonal Communication Caryn Medved and Associate Professor of Economics Jan Palmer.
The University Professor program was established in 1970 as a way for students to recognize faculty they deem exceptional. Award recipients are nominated by student vote and chosen by a student committee that interviews the nominees and observes them teaching. Each University Professor receives $2,000 and teaches two classes on the topic of his or her choice.
Carpenter, a fourth-year humanities professor at the university and author of several books, said he is honored to receive the award. "The meaning of the award comes in that it is from the students," he said. "That's who I teach, that's who matters."
Chabot, who has taught at Ohio University since 1998, said the award means a great deal to her. "To me, it shows caring and enthusiasm about what you teach and that wanting students to be involved in the classroom really does matter," she said.
Next school year, Chabot plans to teach a class focusing on the impact of film and television on the portrayal of the family.
McMath, an elementary education professor at the university for 10 years, considers acknowledgement from her students the highest honor. "I teach what I love, and I love what I teach," she said. "Having my students recognize me for doing a good job is better than being recognized by the president of the world."
McMath plans to teach a course next year titled "Literature From Parallel Cultures."
Medved, a second-year professor at the university, is thrilled to receive positive feedback from her students. "I have wonderful students, who have been energized in the classroom," she said. "It's rewarding to know they have enjoyed the experience as much as I have."
She plans to teach a class focusing on the relationship between career and family or technology in the workplace.
Palmer, who has taught at the university for 21 years and authored the book "Vinson Court's Conference Votes: Data & Analysis," appreciates the recognition from his students. "It's an honor to be recognized by my students and the selection committee," he said.
