2024 Marinus Smith Award Winners

Sigman Byrd

Dept: Writing
Nominators: John Murray

“Dr. Byrd's pedagogy, teaching style and persona were all key to facilitating an intellectual transformation in our son." - John Murray

Cathy Comstock

Dept: College of Arts and Sciences
Nominators: Carrie Shahbahrami

“Dr. Comstock’s approach with her students appears to be collaborative and innovative; students appear encouraged to fully express their needs and meet benchmarks in their learning.” - Carrie Shahbahrami

Jennifer DeDominici

Dept: College of Music - Voice Department
Nominators: Caroline and Nicole Dewell

“Professor DeDominici is the human form of Superwoman." - Caroline Dewell

Carl Hager

Dept: College of Arts and Sciences
Nominators: Sofiya Velychko

“Dr. Hager is an amazing professor who truly cares for his students and their lives." - Sofiya Velychko

Heather Kelley

Dept: Theatre and Dance
Nominators: Amy Kibort

“Heather brings in a warm, calming and inclusive environment. From day one, Heather made an effort to get to know everyone in the class and foster a safe space for us all.” - Amy Kibort

Anja Lange

Dept: Herbst Program for Engineering, Ethics and Society
Nominators: Luke Seifert

“Anja's classes just exemplify the type of learning environment I would like to see more of..." - Luke Seifert

Andres Montoya Castillo

Dept: Chemistry
Nominators: Monica Ochoa and Anthony Dominic

“His teaching method allows for his students to succeed and learn..." - Monica Ochoa

"I knew he would help me grow as a mentor, communicator and as a person." - Anthony Dominic

Susanna Saurini

Dept: Department of French and Italian
Nominators: Deborah Marshall Goretity

“I've rarely seen such a genuinely encouraging teacher with no agenda except for the students to get the very most out of a class." - Deborah Marshall Goretity

Taylor Stratton

Dept: Forever Buffs Advisory Board
Nominators: Samantha Drobnich

“Taylor has all the qualities I would ever want in someone who is a part of my child's daily life. To name a few; integrity, courage, respect, compassion, patience, resilience and above all else kindness." - Samantha Drobnich