Mandar Dewoolkar, assistant professor in the School of Engineering, and Robert Erickson, senior lecturer in the Department of Computer Science, have each received the 2007-08 Kroepsch-Maurice Excellence in Teaching Award. Erickson and Dewoolkar were among many UVM faculty nominated for the award and will each receive $1000.

Created by Robert H. and Ruth M. Kroepsch and her parents, Walter C. and Mary L. Maurice, the award recognizes teaching excellence and innovation (including student learning experiences beyond the classroom), the capacity to motivate and challenge students to pursue knowledge, and a commitment to cultural diversity.

"I knew I had been nominated for this award, but was pleasantly surprised to learn I'd received it," says Dewollkar. "To be recognized by your colleagues for teaching is truly an honor."

Erickson says, "I am honored and speechless to receive this award. By my count, I've taught 4,792 students since my arrival in 1991. It's great to receive recognition for teaching excellence."

"The official awards will be given in fall 2007," says Joan Rosebush, chair of the Kroepsch-Maurice Award.