“Three traits define Professor Keiter’s masterful teaching. He demands analytical rigor while encouraging intellectual curiosity. He melds deep and broad expertise in the law with interdisciplinary perspectives on resource issues, ensuring that students understand questions not only legally but also for the political, scientific, economic, social and ecological dimensions they present. And he actively fosters a classroom environment where students are challenged as they form as professionals while also feeling nurtured and supported in their studies and development.”

“Akiko has dedicated both her research and teaching to community engagement. She is among the most prolific scholars on campus, and her ability to bring students and community partners into the research process is unparalleled. I cannot think of anyone more fitting for this award. … She regularly teaches courses with a community engaged learning (CEL) designation such as Medical Sociology. CEL students learn how to collaborate with others, manage time and resources and engage with health-related topics that are important for the community.”

“Adrienne’s approach to teaching and service fundamentally challenged conventional boundaries between the classroom and the community. She does not teach about community engagement—she practices it. Adrienne truly takes the classroom to the community, bringing students into small farms and gardens, refugee- and immigrant-led food projects, nonprofit organizations and neighborhood gatherings. Through this course, service was not framed as charity or extraction, but as relationship-building grounded in accountability, reciprocity and humility.”

“Prof. Nyawelo has built a highly visible connection between the university and the broader community since his arrival in Utah nearly 20 years ago. He has worked to develop deep connections between the university and refugee and marginalized communities across the Salt Lake Valley. … His long-term dedication to STEM educational opportunities has affected the lives of hundreds of students, many of whom have attended (or are attending) the University of Utah.”

“Dr. Stefanucci is well recognized in the department for her ability to maintain an inclusive, intellectually rigorous and deeply supportive educational environment that supports and empowers undergraduate students, graduate students, postdoctoral scholars and junior faculty to thrive as mentees and junior colleagues. As a nationally recognized scholar at the intersection of cognitive psychology and computer science, Dr. Stefanucci has been deeply committed to integrating trainees into her high-impact research program at all levels, while providing individualized guidance and support to help trainees develop their own independent line of scholarship, develop and refine their professional identity and achieve their long-term career goals.”

“Since Jim arrived at the University of Utah, the university has become a national leader in mountain meteorology, with science that has directly impacted weather forecasting for the Olympic Games, avalanche hazard and assessment and the impact of the Great Salt Lake on snow in the Wasatch Range, among many other topics. Much of this research is student-led, with Jim serving as a guide and collaborator, helping his students perform cutting-edge science. The training his students receive prepares them for careers as leaders in academia, public service and private industry, where they make contributions towards a better understanding of the atmosphere and natural world.”

“Dr. Vetter exemplifies what it means to be both an outstanding scientist and an extraordinary mentor. Her impact reaches far beyond the bench, shaping confident, compassionate and capable trainees while strengthening the broader scientific community. Through her mentorship, she has transformed countless careers and enriched the training environment at every level. She sets a standard for mentorship that is rare, deeply human and profoundly effective; she is truly deserving of this honor.”

“Dr. Drummond exemplifies the highest ideals of academic mentorship. He creates environments where trainees are supported personally, challenged intellectually and positioned for long-term success regardless of career path. Dr. Drummond’s mentorship has been instrumental in shaping the next generation of scientists and clinicians, providing mentees with rigorous research training, extensive professional development opportunities and an inclusive mentoring environment. Impressively and importantly, Dr. Drummond’s mentorship extends far beyond his own laboratory, shaping the culture of mentorship across departments and programs.”

“Prof. Boehme has led exceptional contributions to the research, teaching and service mission of the department and university. … He has built one of the most internationally recognized research programs that spans a broad range of fundamental and applied physics. … Having worked with Christoph on many projects and initiatives over the past 20 years, I can unequivocably state that he excels in every aspect of faculty service, as well as being a trusted colleague and major source of the success of the department. He is internationally recognized as a strong leader who gets things done, who picks up the mantle or responsibility without complaint, and whose cheerful, upbeat nature does wonders to motivate both peers and students for excellence. He has clearly distinguished himself for excellence among our university faculty.”

“Dr. Clark’s accomplishments have been recognized by numerous awards from professional organizations based on his innovative and creative contributions to the fields of sociology and environmental studies, as well as awards received while at the University of Utah. He has established a long and sustained record of outstanding scholarship, publishing in the top journals of sociology, environmental studies and adjacent fields. Alongside his prolific scholarship, Dr. Clark has served in a three-way split appointment at the University of Utah, such that his excellence in teaching, mentoring and program building have benefited hundreds of students and colleagues spanning disciplines and colleges.”

“When I consider what distinguishes a truly exceptional academic career from ‘merely’ an excellent one, I immediately think of my esteemed colleague, Lynn Jorde. For four decades, he has embodied our university's highest aspirations in ways both quantifiable and immeasurable. … His research has fundamentally changed how we understand human genetic variation, evolution and disease. His teaching has shaped how medicine is practiced by thousands of physicians. His service has influenced the direction of human genetics nationally and internationally. He weaves together research, teaching and service into a seamless whole, with each dimension informing and strengthening the others.”

“He arrived [at the U] with a vision: to create the most impactful program in restoring function for people with severe injuries to the spinal column/nervous system through implantable systems and neural interface technologies. Today, he is widely recognized as a pioneer and leader in this field, with his technologies and products used in hundreds of research centers around the world. … I have found Prof. Solzbacher to be exceptionally dedicated to his vision of improving lives—whether as a scientist and engineer, inventor, teacher and mentor, entrepreneur or change agent. He is a free spirit who deeply believes in the potential of those around him and consistently goes above and beyond to support their success.”

“Ling easily exceeds the university’s exacting standards for this honor. He is a rare academic who unites profound fundamental discovery with real-world impact, a transformative educator and a campus and professional leader who builds programs, partnerships and communities that endure. … He is a scientist of uncommon creativity, a technologist whose inventions save lives and protect communities, an educator who transforms students into innovators and a leader who builds institutions and partnerships that last. He stands as an exemplar for all of us at the U of U.”

“Her career is characterized by superb, boundary-breaking research that has achieved national and international recognition; inclusive excellence in both teaching and mentoring; and transformative service and leadership, benefiting both the profession and the University of Utah. … She was an advocate and innovator of interdisciplinary research and teaching long before such integrative, multi-faceted approaches were embraced by the academy. Along with other visionary colleagues, she helped create new practices of scholarship and pedagogy, forged at the intersections of education, cultural studies, ethnic and gender studies, and policy studies. She thus played an important role in bringing about theoretical and methodological change that has enriched scholarly understanding. In addition, Prof. Pillow’s expansive approach to meaning-making is driven by a commitment to accessible, empowering higher education.”

“Prof. Fang’s research accomplishments have both breadth and depth. His research is … groundbreaking in its field, with quantified advantages in energy, cost and materials performance and demonstrable impact that is both scholarly and societal. Prof. Fang has demonstrated in his career a unique gift, as an innovator, for recognizing opportunities of applying scientific principles to solve engineering problems and translating them into industrial impact.”

“She has conducted distinguished research in the area of spatial perception and has made some major breakthroughs in our understanding of spatial perception in real-world settings. … In her research, mentoring and program building we see an amazing ability to innovate, to have a bold vision for what is possible when others have a difficult time seeing the way forward and an ability to plan and organize so that that vision becomes a reality. … She has been an absolute guiding light during a very uncertain and changing time in higher education. She is an amazing role model for others in the way that she is able to stay positive and excited about research and student training.”

“Dr. Gordon’s career reflects the very essence of this award: a sustained record of groundbreaking research, transformative innovations that improve health systems and patient care and a demonstrated commitment to societal impact and mentorship. His leadership has positioned Utah as a national center for addiction research and implementation science. His work has not only advanced science but has tangibly improved lives, influenced national policy and trained the next generation of leaders.”

“Erin has a unique ability to challenge and motivate students both inside and outside the classroom. She believes in us in a way that empowers us to set high expectations for ourselves and recognize our own potential. Whether through thoughtful critique, thought-provoking questions or simply offering to lend a book or send a helpful article, she consistently encourages and inspires us to go beyond our comfort zone and realize our greater potential.”

“Professor Grünwald’s record demonstrates a rare and sustained commitment to pedagogical innovation, curricular leadership and student-centered mentorship. His teaching consistently inspires deep learning, intellectual curiosity and a sense of belonging among students. At every level, from classroom instruction to national program development, Professor Grünwald has advanced the university’s mission of excellence in teaching and student success.”

“Her teaching philosophy—providing both fuel and oxygen for growth—has guided nearly three decades of transformative work with students. Her pedagogical innovations have expanded access, deepened engagement and addressed workforce shortages. Her mentorship has launched countless careers and positioned students as knowledge creators. Her curricular leadership and grant-funded initiatives have strengthened our programs and contributed to state and national priorities. And her international work has prepared educators to thrive in a globalized world.”

“Not only is he incredibly accommodating, but he is also dedicated. He encapsulates the goals of the LEAP and QUEST programs at the University of Utah, as he works hard to arm new students with the necessary skills and confidence they need to succeed. He was always available to talk through writing tips, project ideas, questions or concerns. The passion he radiated in the classroom and the types of discussions he facilitated left me feeling empowered with a new way of thinking.”

“Dr. Stillman-Webb is an incredible mentor, teacher and overall human being. Her class was creative, unique and deeply impactful for every student that has gotten to take it. She cares about her students, and that is what motivated us all to work together and produce an end result we were all proud of. I cannot imagine that there would be anyone more suited to receive this award.”

“In addition to her clinical roles in Internal Medicine and Infectious Disease, Dr. Carey helped pioneer the use of Problem Based Learning into the curriculum, which was designed to foster early critical thinking in the context of clinical scenarios. … Dr. Carey always shows up. She welcomes new challenges and works extremely hard to make sure that a learning environment is as productive and inspiring as possible. I am sure that the creativity and sheer effort she puts into course design and lesson planning are not fully represented on paper, because it is hard to capture all the ways that she keeps teaching in the forefront of her work.”

“I have personally observed the significant improvement in obstetric care delivered to patients under Dr. Spiess’s guidance. Her systematic approach to standardizing prenatal care processes, implementing OB safety conferences and fostering interdepartmental collaboration has elevated both clinical quality and educational rigor. These initiatives not only enhance patient outcomes but also equip learners with the skills and confidence to practice comprehensive maternity care in diverse settings.”

“All in all, I cannot think of a better recipient of the Early Career Teaching Award than Jackie. Her teaching excellence is defined not only by her deep knowledge of the Spanish language, literature and culture, but by her remarkable ability to make complex material engaging, coherent and personally meaningful to her students. Through organized course design, creative use of visual and narrative frameworks and a student-centered approach to learning, she fosters intellectual curiosity and a lasting understanding well beyond the classroom.”

“Dr. King is one of my primary research collaborators in the Cognitive Motor Neuroscience theme in our department, and I also had the pleasure of co-teaching two different courses (one graduate course and one undergraduate course) with him over the last four years. … Dr. King is strongly invested in the students’ success, but he also cares deeply about the experience of his co-instructors. His communication and coordination skills are outstanding, and he is always ready to step up to help with the teaching assignments of his collaborators if needed. As such, Dr. King is bringing to our department a unique, innovative and collegial team-based teaching approach. He is a true collaborator who shines at efficiently leading and coordinating a teaching team.”

“Service, outreach and community building are also important aspects of Yao’s contribution here at the U and beyond. They play an active—now leadership—role in the Astro group within our department, guiding our course offerings, curriculum development and tracking of astro students’ successes and challenges. They have been engaged in outreach throughout their career, most recently giving public talks (e.g., ‘Astronomy on Tap’ in downtown SLC). Throughout, Yao has emphasized the importance of a strong academic community that values inclusion.”

“Professor Durante exemplifies what it means to be an exceptional educator, mentor and research scholar. In the classroom, Professor Durante is deeply attentive and intentional in her teaching and curriculum. She does not simply deliver material, she ensures students truly understand it. Through consistent discussion, collaborative group activities and reflective assignments, she creates an environment where students are encouraged to critically engage with the criminal justice system rather than passively absorb information about it. Her teaching style emphasizes dialogue, real-world application and nuance, allowing students to balance honesty with complex and often uncomfortable realities within criminology and the criminal justice system.”

“Professor Miller creates a classroom environment that is safe for all types of learners and students to speak up. He provides a lot of thoughtful encouragement in comments on students' thinking. He is articulate and does an excellent job of teaching material in a kind and respectful way. He's also great at directing discussions and making students feel safe to speak up. Finally, he's always willing and enthusiastic about helping students outside the classroom.”

“Dr. Yilmaz is an exceptional tenure-line faculty member in the Department of Education, Culture & Society whose innovative work in multilingual education and technology integration has already had a transformative impact on our programs. Dr. Yilmaz’s project aligns perfectly with the fellowship’s purpose of enriching and enlarging the individual’s teaching role. Her work will have immediate and sustained impact on graduate curricula, teacher preparation and statewide professional development initiatives.”

“Kirsten’s impact reaches far beyond the classroom. Her genuine dedication and deep care for her students is reflected in the way she supports each student individually, nurturing a growth mindset that helps them see challenges as opportunities and mistakes as a part of learning. Through thoughtful encouragement and a deep belief in every student’s potential, she builds their self-efficacy, empowering them to trust their abilities and persevere with confidence. The classroom climate that she creates for her students each year is not only conducive to a positive learning environment but is a safe and welcome space for all.”

“Dr. Osborn brings a rare combination of clinical expertise, innovation and community partnership. She has built a learning environment that not only teaches students about the complex interplay between social factors and health but also immerses them in meaningful, hands-on service that directly benefits children and families in our community. Her approach integrates experiential learning, research and community action in a way that is both rigorous and deeply human-centered.”

“Professor Pania Newell exemplifies the ideals of the John G. Francis Prize through her extraordinary mentoring efforts, sustained programmatic impact, documented mentoring record and unwavering commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment. Her mentorship spans undergraduates, graduate students, postdoctoral scholars, first-generation Ph.D. students and international trainees, reflecting her belief that mentorship knows no borders. She is an invaluable asset to the College of Engineering and the University of Utah.”

“Dr. Aspinwall deeply believes in the potential of all students, regardless of background. She goes out of her way to help students discover their research and career interests, develop and achieve their long-term career goals and mentors them to persist through, and grow from, personal and academic challenges. … Her mentoring initiatives have consistently and directly benefited undergraduate students campuswide by expanding access to high-quality research, mentoring and professional development opportunities. In addition, her advocacy, community-building events and commitment to equity and inclusion have created welcoming, identity-affirming spaces that support the academic and personal success of undergraduates from every corner of the university.”