MSU honors universitywide faculty, staff with excellence in teaching, advising awards
Contact: Mary Pollitz
STARKVILLE, Miss.—Mississippi State is honoring its exceptional faculty and staff with annual awards for their outstanding teaching, mentoring, advising and contributions to the university’s students.
"At Mississippi State University, excellence in teaching and academic advising is crucial to our students' success,” Executive Vice Provost Peter Ryan said. “High-quality teaching, academic advising, and career guidance are essential for students to complete their degrees on time and secure quality jobs. The university is committed to enhancing teaching and advising skills and acknowledges individuals for their achievements. We are fortunate to have talented early career teachers and academic advisors, and these awards celebrate their accomplishments.
“We also extend our heartfelt thanks to all the committee members who diligently worked on the reviews,” he continued. “Their efforts are invaluable in recognizing and promoting excellence within our community.”
This year’s honorees include:
Alumni Association Outstanding Graduate Student Mentor Award
—Mary Dozier, assistant professor, Department of Psychology, College of Arts and Sciences.
Alumni Association Graduate and Professional Teaching Excellence Award
—Dr. Marc Seitz, associate clinical professor, Department of Clinical Services, College of Veterinary Medicine.
2025 Donald Zacharias Early Career Undergraduate Teaching Excellence Award
—Abigail Good, instructor, Department of Mathematics and Statistics, College of Arts and Sciences.
—Morgan Green, assistant teaching professor, Michael W. Hall School of Mechanical Engineering, Bagley College of Engineering.
—SaMin Han, assistant professor, Department of Landscape Architecture and Environmental Design, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.
Center for Distance Education Online Teaching Excellence Award
—Liza Bondurant, associate professor, Department of Teacher Education and Leadership, College of Education.
Irvin Atly Jefcoat Excellence in Advising Award Staff Recipient
—Trina Pollan, academic coordinator, Adkerson School of Accountancy, College of Business.
Irvin Atly Jefcoat Excellence in Advising Award Faculty Recipient
—Terri Hernandez, assistant professor, Department of Communication, College of Arts and Sciences.
Wesley A. Ammon Outstanding New Staff Advisor Award
—Taylor Watson, academic coordinator, College of Business.
Foil-Wyatt Outstanding New Faculty Advisor Award
—Jessica Benson, assistant professor, School of Human Sciences, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.
Mississippi State University is taking care of what matters. Learn more at www.msstate.edu.