The Ohio State University’s Alumni Award for Distinguished Teaching, established during the 1959–60 academic year, is one of the university’s most prestigious teaching awards. Ten faculty members were recently notified of their 2026 awards through surprise announcements led by senior university leaders.
“These incredible faculty are inspiring today’s students, who in turn, become tomorrow’s alumni — alumni who will go out into the world to make a difference, changing lives in ways we have not yet imagined. The faculty recognized this year demonstrate extraordinary dedication to student learning through creativity, rigor and meaningful support. On behalf of the alumni association, it is an honor to recognize their contributions to teaching and learning across Ohio State.”
Molly Ranz Calhoun ’86
President and CEO
The Ohio State University Alumni Association
Jasmine Abukar, Department of Educational Studies
Jasmine Abukar
Clinical Assistant Professor
Department of Educational Studies
College of Education and Human Ecology
Jasmine Abukar distinguishes herself through student-centered teaching that challenges students intellectually while fostering supportive and engaging learning environments. Her courses emphasize critical dialogue, reflection and the application of theory to practice, helping students connect academic concepts to real-world contexts. Students describe her classrooms as spaces where high expectations are paired with meaningful support. Beyond instruction, she is a dedicated advocate for students, supporting their growth through mentoring and thoughtful advising.
Yiğit Akin, Department of History
Yiğit Akin
Associate Professor
Carter V. Findley Chair of Ottoman and Turkish History
Department of History
College of Arts and Sciences
Through creative, carefully structured teaching, Yiğit Akin brings complex historical topics to life for students with little prior exposure to Middle Eastern and Ottoman history. His courses emphasize critical analysis, cultural context and primary sources, including art and music. Students describe his teaching as engaging and transformative. Beyond the classroom, he is known for detailed feedback, approachability and a strong commitment to student learning, academic growth and faculty mentorship.
Dawn Allain, Department of Internal Medicine
Dawn Allain
Clinical Professor
Department of Internal Medicine
College of Medicine
Dawn Allain demonstrates exceptional leadership and teaching excellence in graduate and clinical education. As a leader in curriculum development, she emphasizes thoughtful course design, reflective learning and rigorous preparation for professional practice. Students describe her teaching as well organized, engaging and supportive, with a strong focus on discussion and feedback. She is also deeply committed to mentoring and advising, investing significant time in student growth and professional development.
Rebecca R. Andridge, Division of Biostatistics
Rebecca R. Andridge
Professor
Division of Biostatistics
College of Public Health
Innovative course design and active learning are hallmarks of Rebecca Andridge’s teaching. As associate dean for undergraduate studies, she strengthens academic experiences across programs and helps shape high-quality online and in-person courses. Her approach emphasizes clear explanation, handson application and timely feedback, helping students build confidence with complex concepts. Students praise her clarity, engagement, accessibility and steady commitment to learning in online and in-person settings.
Amanda Bird, Department of Human Sciences, Department of Molecular Genetics
Amanda Bird
Associate Professor
Department of Human Sciences
College of Education and Human Ecology
Department of Molecular Genetics
College of Arts and Sciences
An emphasis on high-energy, student-centered teaching allows Amanda Bird to create learning experiences that extend well beyond the classroom. She is known for courses that blend rigorous science with communication, outreach and real-world application, engaging learners from undergraduates to community partners. Her teaching emphasizes preparation, confidence and enthusiasm, supported by clear structure. Her classrooms are marked by approachability and a deep commitment to helping learners grow as students, educators and future professionals.
Ellen Klinger, Department of Entomology
Ellen Klinger
Associate Professor of Professional Practice
Department of Entomology
College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences
Ellen Klinger’s supportive, student-centered teaching and advising play a central role in helping students navigate academic and professional pathways. She is known for well-organized, engaging courses that emphasize critical thinking, practical skills and meaningful feedback. Her approach combines flexibility, responsiveness and approachability, creating an environment that encourages growth and goal‑setting. Her sustained investment in mentoring and career guidance helps students build confidence
Danielle Schoon, Department of Sociology
Danielle Schoon
Assistant Professor of Teaching
Department of Sociology
College of Arts and Sciences
Using thoughtful facilitation and course design, Danielle Schoon creates learning environments where students engage deeply with complex topics. She is known for clear structure, meaningful activities and a strong classroom presence that encourages participation and dialogue and was named Outstanding Lecturer by the Department of Sociology in 2021. Her teaching balances high expectations with approachability and responsiveness. Students praise her preparation, care and ability to build academic growth and confidence.
Guramrit Singh, Department of Molecular Genetics
Guramrit Singh
Associate Professor
Department of Molecular Genetics
College of Arts and Sciences
Rigorous instruction and generous mentorship characterize how Guramrit Singh challenges students while providing the support needed for deep learning. His teaching emphasizes clarity, thoughtful explanations and real-world analogies that make complex material accessible without lowering expectations. Known for exceptional availability, he spends extensive time meeting with students, offering feedback and guiding research and career development. Students consistently praise
his patience, enthusiasm and lasting impact on their confidence, curiosity and professional growth.
Margaret Sumner, Department of History
Margaret Sumner
Associate Professor
Department of History
College of Arts and Sciences
At Ohio State Marion, Margaret Sumner transforms history education into professional practice. She is known for creating hands-on learning opportunities that connect students with archival research, public history and civic engagement beyond the classroom. Her teaching emphasizes rigor, mentorship and real-world application, supported by exceptional availability and guidance. Students value her creativity and ability to help them develop confidence, skills and clear pathways toward academic and professional success.
Ryan J. Yoder, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
Ryan J. Yoder
Professor
Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
College of Arts and Sciences
Engaging, student-focused teaching makes organic chemistry both rigorous and approachable in Ryan J. Yoder’s courses. He is known for clear explanations, storytelling and problem-solving strategies that build confidence in challenging material. Recognized with the 2018 Ohio State Marion Teaching Award, his teaching emphasizes active participation, practice and conceptual understanding. Exceptionally accessible, he maintains an open-door approach and provides support through feedback, guidance
and mentorship that strengthens academic performance and confidence.
Alumni Award for Distinguished Teaching recipients are recognized with a $5,000 honorarium made possible by gifts from The Ohio State University Alumni Association, University Advancement and the Office of Academic Affairs (OAA). In addition, OAA awards an increase of $1,200 to each recipient’s base salary. Members are also inducted into Ohio State’s Academy of Teaching.