Albertson named Outstanding Instructor of the Year

Albertson

Julie Albertson, senior instruction at the College of Engineering and Applied Science at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs, was named Instructor of the Year and was recognized at the Campus Awards Ceremony on Wednesday. In addition to the recognition, she will receive a $1,000 bonus.

No one is more deserving of the award, said Andrew Ketsdever, professor and chair of the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering. “(Julie) has the respect of her peers and the administration on campus for her caring and devotion to students, her hard work on campus curriculum issues, and her seemingly endless efforts with various committees around UCCS.”

Albertson said she was surprised and honored when she learned she’d been nominated for the award. “I’m very grateful to know that people have that kind of faith in me. I just really love teaching and getting to know my students.”

Albertson, an 18-year UCCS veteran, has helped develop a freshman introduction to engineering curriculum and coordinate the advising of undergraduate students, and created the MAE Student Advisory Board. All while teaching full time.

“Her devotion to not only her instruction but to student success demonstrates her many outstanding qualities as a faculty member,” R. “Dan” Dandapani, dean, College of Engineering and Applied Science, said.

Albertson said one of the most important aspects of student success is recognizing the varying learning styles with the student population. She said faculty and staff bear a responsibility to help students succeed in their endeavors – both within and out of the classroom.

“Developing a community within the classroom is one of the most important things a professor can do,” Albertson said. “Students try harder and are more comfortable asking questions when there is a support network in place.”

Ketsdever believes this approach help Albertson succeed and helped the department’s retention rates increase.