Fall 2018 Caught in the Act of Great Teaching award winners announced

The Fall 2018 Caught in the Act of Great Teaching awards winners were recently announced. Each semester the Office of Faculty Development and Teaching Excellence awards faculty for excellence in teaching acts that inspire students and exemplify teaching excellence. This semester winners include William Hatcher in Pamplin College, Jennifer Sullivan at MCG, Renee Sasser in the College of Education and Chris Pallas at MCG. Winners are chosen through blind nominations that are rated by a review committee. Below are some of the nomination bids.

William Hatcher, PhD – Social Sciences:

“Dr. Hatcher makes time for all of us no matter what time it is – I’ve emailed him at 10 p.m. and he’s responded immediately. He makes sure everyone feels heard, he’s funny, and he is just so passionate about what he teaches that it’s infectious. He makes me want to continue to pursue professional — and personal — growth because he has convinced us all that there is no such thing as a “small act.” He is the very definition of public service, and I am proud to be part of his MPA program.”

Jennifer Sullivan, PhD – Physiology and Endocrinology:

“Jen is a phenomenal professor who truly cares about each and every one of her students. She always goes the extra mile to make sure that her students learn, get involved, and grow as people every single day. She does so much for her students, her department, and all of the national societies that she’s a part of. I couldn’t imagine my graduate school experience without her!”

Renee Sasser, DED- Teaching and Leading:

“This Summer, Dr. Sasser stepped up to become our Residency I & II adviser/professor with a moments notice after the unexpected passing (death) of Dr. Gilbert. Another professor declined to take on this role and to be our teacher. Dr. Sasser is one of the best professors at Augusta University. She responds to emails within a few minutes with detailed answers. She is always willing to go above and beyond for her students. She starts each semester with a one on one meeting with the student, principal/coach, and her self. She brings banana bread for everyone and brownies. This is not a requirement in the program, but she takes the time to build relationships and know her students. She gives detailed written feedback for every assignment and is willing to let students make corrections if needed. Dr. Sasser will individually call you and give you her number to help you through the program. Dr. Sasser was an outstanding principal in Burke County and we are lucky to have her at Augusta University.

Chris Pallas, MD – DOM Cardiology:

“Dr. Pallas can often be caught in the act of teaching students and residents how to read EKGs in the terrace dining hall. He patiently explains how to approach this intimidating task through a stepwise method. He brings packets of teaching material and even offers to pay for his team’s coffee.”