Augusta University celebrates faculty commitment to teaching excellence

Augusta University recently honored faculty from across its academic units for their exceptional commitment to student success, innovation in instruction and ongoing professional growth. In a ceremony hosted by the Center for Instructional Innovation, faculty were recognized for their active participation in developing programming that strengthens teaching and learning across the institution.

This year, over 1,000 digital badges were awarded to 347 faculty members who participated in workshops to enhance instructional practices. Eighty-eight faculty earned formal recognition by meeting participation requirements for CII’s structured certificate programs: Teaching Excellence for Student Success, Instructional Technology Essentials and Tech Savvy Teaching.

“We’re not just celebrating completion of certificate programs; we’re celebrating a shared commitment to educational excellence,” Interim Provost Jennifer C. Sullivan, PhD, the executive sponsor of the initiative, said in praising the university-wide engagement. “Every badge and certificate awarded reflects the dedication and commitment of our faculty to improve the learning experiences of our students.”

Certificate awardees included faculty from across each of Augusta University’s colleges and schools, as well as the University Libraries, demonstrating that high-quality instruction is a campus-wide priority.

“These efforts reflect our faculty’s dedication to growth and student impact and directly enhance the quality of instruction for our students,” said Doug Blackburn, assistant vice president of Instruction with the Center for Instructional Innovation, emphasizing the collaborative nature of the achievement.

The celebration underscored Augusta University’s strategic commitment to supporting teaching excellence and fostering academic environments where all students can thrive. As the institution continues to expand its development offerings, the accomplishments of these faculty members serve as a strong foundation for future innovation.

Phillip Kang, PhD, an assistant professor in the Kinesiology Department in the College of Education and Human Development said, “Participating in Augusta University’s Center for Instructional Innovation programs has transformed my teaching. The certificates in Teaching Excellence and Instructional Technology Essentials gave me research-based strategies to motivate students, use AI and digital tools meaningfully and create inclusive, engaging learning environments. These programs didn’t just teach skills; they helped me reimagine how I connect with students across all modalities.”

View a PDF of the complete list of award winners.

View the complete gallery of winners present for the awards ceremony.