CELT Teaching Award winners announced

The Center for the Enhancement of Learning and Teaching is pleased to announce the winners of its 2026 teaching awards.

2026 Friends of the University Outstanding Teacher Award

Cheu-jey Lee is the recipient of the 2026 Friends of the University Outstanding Teacher Award. This honor recognizes exceptional teaching and a meaningful, sustained impact on students at Purdue University Fort Wayne. The selection committee was especially impressed by the strong evidence of student connection and impact reflected throughout the nomination dossier.

Student testimonials highlighted not only deep appreciation for Dr. Lee’s teaching but also the lasting influence on student learning, confidence, and professional development as future educators. The committee also noted the effectiveness of Lee’s teaching in supporting students’ content mastery and readiness for licensure exams and professional practice.In addition, the nomination demonstrated a sustained commitment to course improvement, student learning, literacy education, and teaching-related scholarship, as well as consistent excellence over time.

2026 Excellence in Online and Hybrid Teaching Award

Cindy Vanderlaan has been selected to receive the 2026 Award for Excellence in Online and Hybrid Teaching. Vanderlaan was recognized for the intentional, evidence-informed redesign of MA 22900, which addressed common barriers in online mathematics courses. Drawing on insights from participation in the CELT online course design cohort, Vanderlaan translated this work into a course structure that is clear, supportive, and well-aligned with learning goals.

The award committee highlighted the transparency, consistency, and organization of the redesigned course. Features such as a “Start Here” module, well-structured weekly modules, streamlined communication, centralized resources, and an improved gradebook help students understand expectations, track progress, and stay engaged. Vanderlaan’s materials also demonstrate strong use of active learning, metacognition, and growth mindset. Tools such as a Personalized Tracking Sheet, guided notes, custom video lessons, and embedded Kaltura quizzes promote active, reflective engagement and reinforce that challenges in mathematics do not define a student’s potential. Student feedack further strengthened the nomination, with comments praising the course design and overall learning experience.

2026 Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching Award

Austin Rausch is this year’s recipient of the Leepoxy Plastics, Inc. Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching. This honor recognizes outstanding contributions to undergraduate learning.

The selection committee was impressed by the project's creativity and transferability, as well as its clear alignment with meaningful student learning. His work highlighted effective use of Universal Design for Learning and gamified, activity-based approaches in theatre courses, creating multiple pathways for students to engage in analysis, discussion, writing, and creative interpretation.

The committee also noted the strong relational approach reflected in the nomination, emphasizing intentional efforts to connect with students, foster participation, and support intellectual and creative risk-taking. This combination of innovative course design and meaningful student connection exemplifies the spirit of the Leepoxy Award. The committee commended Rausch for a continued commitment to inclusive, creative, engaging, and rigorous educational experiences.