Julie Albertson was recently named the UCCS Instructor of the Year and will be recognized at the Campus Awards Ceremony at 4 p.m. on May 1 in Berger Hall.
In addition to the recognition, she will receive a $1,000 bonus.
According to Andrew Ketsdever, professor, College of Engineering and Applied Science, and chair of the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, there is no one more deserving of the award.
“[Julie] has the respect of her peers and the administration on campus for her caring and devotion to students, her hard work on campus curriculum issues, and her seemingly endless efforts with various committees around UCCS,” Ketsdever said.
Albertson, senior instructor, College of Engineering and Applied Science, said she was surprised and honored when she learned she’d been nominated for the award.
“I’m very grateful to know that people have that kind of faith in me,” Albertson said. “I just really love teaching and getting to know my students.”
Albertson, an 18-year UCCS veteran, has helped develop a freshman introduction to engineering curriculum, coordinate the advising of undergraduate students and created the MAE Student Advisory Board. All while teaching full time.
“Her devotion to not only her instruction but to student success demonstrates her many outstanding qualities as a faculty member,” R. “Dan” Dandapani, dean, College of Engineering and Applied Science, said.
According to Albertson, one of the most important aspects of student success is recognizing the varying learning styles with the student population.
“My courses center around hands-on, kinesthetic learning experiences to reinforce concepts covered in lecture, homework, and reading,” Albertson said. “You can be demanding of excellence and still have fun in the classroom while communicating your love for the subject.”
According to Albertson, faculty and staff bear a responsibly to help students succeed in their endeavors – both within and out of the classroom.
“Developing a community within the classroom is one of the most important things a professor can do,” Albertson said. “Students try harder and are more comfortable asking questions when there is a support network in place.”
Ketsdever believes this approach help Albertson succeed and helped the department’s retention rates increase.
“Julie is an excellent role model for all of our students,” Ketsdever said. “She has the respect of student population and is always sought out by our students – even ones that have never had a course with her – for professional and personal advice.”
— Photo by Philip Denman
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