Faculty members earn Institute-wide recognition for teaching excellence, interdisciplinary research, technology use

Georgia Tech’s Faculty Honors Committee has recognized three professors in the School of Civil and Environmental for their impact on students and their interdisciplinary work.

 

Kahn
   
 

Russell
   
 

Webster

The intensely competitive awards went to Lawrence Kahn for his teaching, Ted Russell for his interdisciplinary activities, and Donald Webster for his use of technology to “flip” his Fluid Mechanics and Dynamics course.

“Interdisciplinary research, effective teaching, and use of innovative technology are areas we have identified as critical to the future success of our program,” said Reginald DesRoches, Karen and John Huff chair of the School. “To see our faculty members recognized for their excellence in these areas reflects their dedication to ensuring our students get the best education and our scientific efforts are directed toward improving our world. I’m proud of my colleagues for their achievements.”

Kahn, Russell and Webster will receive their awards at Georgia Tech’s annual Faculty and Staff Honors Luncheon in April. More details on the awards, including comments from the awards committee:

Lawrence Kahn, Class of 1940 W. Howard Ector Outstanding Teacher Award

“The committee was impressed by your distinguished record of teaching excellence, including multiple awards from your school and long-term impact on students who have achieved success in a variety of careers.”

Ted Russell, Class of 1934 Outstanding Interdisciplinary Activities Award

“The committee was impressed by your deliberate efforts to draw together faculty from different disciplines to engage the issue of air quality. In particular, the committee noted the public policy impact of this work, including recognition by the [U.S. Environmental Protection Agency].”

Donald Webster, Class of 1934 Outstanding Innovative Use of Education Technology Award

“The committee was impressed by your efforts to flip upper division courses in Fluid Mechanics and Dynamics, as well as the efficacy of that work. In addition, we noted how more attention was placed on the process and pedagogy rather than the specific technologies themselves. But it was student feedback about the experience that was the deciding factor in the award.”