UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Four faculty members at Penn State Commonwealth Campuses were recognized with five awards at the end of the spring semester for excellence in teaching, research, service and innovative instructional practices.
Three faculty members received University College Faculty Council Awards for research, teaching and service, while two faculty members received the Jack P. Royer Active and Collaborative Learning Award from the Office of the Vice President for Commonwealth Campuses.
“These award recipients represent the best of Penn State’s Commonwealth Campuses,” said Renata Engel, vice president for Commonwealth Campuses and executive chancellor. “Their dedication to student learning, scholarly achievement and service strengthens our campuses, enriches the student experience and advances Penn State’s mission across the commonwealth. I also want to thank those who submitted nominations and served on selection committees for their commitment to recognizing excellence.”
University College Teaching Award
The University College Teaching Award recognizes excellence in teaching, including innovative instructional practices, meaningful student engagement, commitment to student learning and development, and a lasting impact on students’ academic and intellectual growth.
Cassandra Miller-Butterworth
Associate professor of biology
Penn State Beaver
University College Service Award
The University College Faculty Service Award recognizes outstanding service to the campus, University, profession and broader community, as well as contributions that enhance the student experience and advance Penn State’s mission.
C. Kalpani Dissanayake
Assistant professor of project and supply chain management
Penn State Brandywine
University College Research Scholar Award
The University College Faculty Scholar Award recognizes significant and sustained contributions to research, scholarship and/or creative accomplishment that advance knowledge, engage undergraduate students and have a meaningful impact on the recipient's academic field.
Alan Peslak
Professor of information sciences and technology
Penn State Scranton
Jack P. Royer Active and Collaborative Learning Award
The Jack P. Royer Active and Collaborative Learning Award recognizes Commonwealth Campus faculty and staff who demonstrate excellence in innovative, student-centered teaching practices that actively engage students in the learning process and promote deeper understanding and application of course concepts.
Ike Shibley
Associate professor of chemistry
Penn State Berks
Cassandra Miller-Butterworth
Associate professor of biology
Penn State Beaver