At the heart of every great university are great teachers. At UWM, teachers mentored and guided 22,321 undergraduate students in 93 programs during the 2015-’16 school year. Here are a few of the faculty members students most respect and admire.
Students talk about the UWM faculty they most admire
UWM students recently named biological sciences professor Douglas Steeber as undergraduate research mentor of the year. Despite a busy schedule of teaching, research and committee assignments, his students remain a priority. “Dr. Steeber challenges his students to do better and is always available to help them,” said student Navjit Lehal (right), pictured here with Steeber and fellow student Devan Leistikow. (UWM Photo/ Elora Hennessey)
Students of Color Advocacy senator Miela Fetaw holds in her highest regard Robert Smith, a history professor and director of the Cultures & Communities Program. “Open a dictionary and search the word spirited. It is defined as full of energy, enthusiasm and determination. Followed by the definition you will find a photo of Dr. Smith. This is the best word to describe the black brilliance and passion behind the man.” (UWM Photo/ Elora Hennessey)
Architecture student Kalin Reed (right) says Mo Zell, associate professor and associate dean of the School of Architecture and Urban Planning, has had the biggest impact on his schooling. “Mo Zell is a great professor because she is invested in you and your ideas. She will not let you give up on reaching your potential.” (UWM Photo/ Elora Hennessey)
Social work student Anna Dibba praises the teaching style of social work professor David Pate Jr. “He taught me to value my opinions and to speak with conviction. He never lets students get away with saying that they simply do not know something.” (UWM Photo/Elora Hennessey)
Madalyn Dellenach says her favorite teacher at UWM is Allen Morris, a faculty member in the photo department at the Peck School of the Arts. "Allen has an optimistic attitude that rubs off on everyone around him,” Dellenach said. “He is always willing to make the time to help his students, no matter the
issue. He makes the most stressful situations into a positive learning experience." (UWM Photo/ Elora Hennessey)
Engineering student Nisrit Pandey speaks highly of Benjamin Church, associate professor of materials science and engineering. “Working with Dr. Benjamin Church has allowed me to go beyond solving differential equations in my classes as I can actually apply my theoretical skills. He has been an amazing mentor and truly wants his students to succeed. His passion and love for the field of materials science is inspirational.” (UWM Photo/ Elora Hennessey)
