Each year, the Kroepsch-Maurice Excellence in Teaching Award honors one faculty member in each ranked category. This year, Assistant Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Dr. Matthew Scarborough, received this honor. The award follows a student nomination as well as observation by a member of the selection committee.

Scarborough’s nomination highlights his wide capacity for compassion with students, involvement in community, and innovation in the classroom. His teachings “challenge his students” while “[allowing] flexibility in the delivery of his material” as well as “[encouraging] teamwork and collaboration and [promoting] academic literacy.”

The author of several publications, Scarborough's experience and value of research is reflected in his classroom environment. As noted by students, he ventures beyond textbook readings to prepare students for real-world experiences, including teaching “industry terms and standards”. His commitment to students is also clearly demonstrated by his involvement with UVM’s Engineers Without Borders, as well as his responsibilities as a student advisor.  

Scarborough’s teaching style and philosophy closely reflects the considerations for the Kroepsch-Maurice Excellence in Teaching Award. As a licensed professional engineer, his previous work for an environmental consulting company allows Scarborough to incorporate a flexible research-framed teaching style that is always adapting to what best suits his students. He often incorporates group work to facilitate collaborative skills, is clear in his objectives for students, and ensures availability to anyone who needs it.

The considerations for this award stress the importance of one’s commitment to Our Common Ground for lifelong learning, which Scarborough demonstrates both in and out of the classroom. His learner-centric philosophy engages, supports, and inspires while establishing open and respectful relationships with students.