Casey O’Brien, senior lecturer, Women’s & Gender Studies

Casey O’Brien has taught many of the core courses in Women’s & Gender Studies since joining UWM in 2008. She has become an invaluable member of the department, according to Andrea C. Westlund, associate professor of philosophy and Women’s & Gender Studies chair.

“She is, quite simply, a brilliant teacher and outstanding colleague,” Westlund said. “The emphasis Casey places on critical reading, writing and research skills in all the courses she teaches has greatly improved our students’ preparedness for upper-division Women’s & Gender Studies coursework. But perhaps even more importantly, she has an uncommon talent for inspiring students to engage with the course materials in ways that are meaningful in the broader context of their lives.”

Her students agree, consistently giving her high marks on evaluations. For Krista Grensavitch, a lecturer in the Department of History, she’s been a mentor.

“I can personally attest to Casey’s effectiveness as an instructor and her commitment to innovative content delivery and curricular development,” Grensavitch wrote. “I can think of a no more committed, innovative, deserving and personally inspirational individual to receive this honor.”

Read UWM Report article: 29 faculty and staff honored at fall awards.