Two NU English colleagues have been recognized with 2017-18 CSSH Outstanding Teaching Awards—Melissa Wolter-Gustafson and Elizabeth Polcha:
Melissa Wolter-Gustafson, Part-time Lecturer, Department of English. With this award, the college recognizes Melissa Wolter-Gustafson’s dedication to each student she teaches in the writing program. She has excelled in creating courses in which students from diverse backgrounds learn how to engage in a continued dialogue about ways to improve their writing. The committee was impressed by her versatile teaching in First-Year writing and advanced writing courses in Business, Science, Health, and Technical Professions. Described as a flexible, rigorous and dedicated instructor by her nominator, Wolter-Gustafson has adapted “her courses to new needs” of students and has played “a strong role in helping determine the shape and direction of the Writing Program” through her service.
Elizabeth Polcha, Ph.D. Doctoral Candidate, Department of English. With this award, the college recognizes Elizabeth Polcha’s well developed teaching philosophy emphasizing social justice and media literacy in her courses in the writing program; her commitment to teaching non-traditional students; and her consistent success in creating an inclusive classroom environment. Students describe her teaching as “inspired,” “effective,” and “respectful,” and her classroom as “welcoming,” “professional yet also comfortable.”
We are delighted that the wonderful teaching of our colleagues is being recognized—huge congratulations to Melissa and Liz!
