Six honored for distinguished teaching

Christiane Buuck, a senior lecturer, is recognized for her exceptional teaching, commitment to student success and leadership in writing instruction. She has taught across the writing curriculum, from Basic and First Year Writing to Creative and Professional Writing, and is known for helping students develop confidence and clarity as writers. She received the Department of English’s Teaching Award for First Year Writing and the English Undergraduate Organization’s Associated Faculty of the Year Award. Through her work with the Young Scholars Program and the Minor in Professional Writing, Buuck helps students strengthen writing skills and find their voices. 

Exceptional student-centered teaching, commitment to accessibility and leadership in first-year engineering education define Lecturer Alexia Leonard’s teaching. She is widely respected for her curriculum innovation, mentorship of graduate and undergraduate teaching assistants, and dedication to removing barriers to student success. Known for creating supportive learning environments, Leonard integrates student feedback, experiential learning and thoughtful instructional design. Through her teaching and academic leadership, she empowers students to build confidence, creativity and a strong foundation for their academic and professional futures. 

Celebrated for his engaging, student-centered approach and a College of Pharmacy teaching award, Associate Professor of Practice David Matthews exemplifies teaching excellence, innovation in pharmacy education and ongoing commitment to student growth. He creates dynamic learning environments that connect classroom instruction with real-world clinical practice, balancing rigor with encouragement and support. In addition to his teaching, he serves as assistant dean for the Doctor of Pharmacy program, contributing to curriculum development that strengthens student learning. Widely praised for his mentorship, Matthews prepares future pharmacists to think critically, act confidently and succeed in complex health care settings. 

Known for his innovative teaching, Senior Lecturer Calvin Olsen creatively integrates digital media and emerging technologies into the study of literature and writing. His courses encourage students to think critically about storytelling, technology and culture through hands-on, project-based learning, including the use of 3D printing and digital media. Widely praised for fostering creativity, discussion and independent thinking, Olsen creates engaging learning environments in both in-person and online courses while helping students strengthen communication skills, analytical reasoning and confidence as writers and thinkers.

Honored for his exceptional teaching, mentorship and commitment to student development, Lt. Michael L. Terranova, an assistant professor of naval science, exemplifies excellence in experiential, student-centered education. His instruction integrates technical rigor with real-world naval application, helping students master complex concepts while building confidence, discipline and leadership skills. He is widely praised for his accessibility, extended availability and dedication to student growth both inside and outside the classroom. Through patient instruction, hands-on learning and consistent guidance, Lt. Terranova prepares future naval officers to excel academically, professionally and in service-oriented leadership roles. 

Lecturer Jennifer Walters is recognized for her transformative teaching, exceptional accessibility and dedication to student success in chemistry education. Known for making challenging material approachable, she creates engaging classrooms that reduce anxiety and build confidence, particularly in organic chemistry. Her teaching emphasizes active learning, reflection and evidence-based strategies that support student learning. Widely praised by students and colleagues alike, Walters pairs high expectations with extraordinary support, helping students develop strong problem-solving skills, resilience and a lasting sense of confidence in the sciences.