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The annual Faculty Excellence Awards at the University of Houston celebrated distinguished faculty members for their contributions to research, teaching, and service. Held on April 24 at the Hilton University of Houston, the event saw over 30 faculty members receiving honors.
Opening the ceremony, UH Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost, Diane Z. Chase, stated, “I can’t think of a place I’d rather be right now. Being in the same room with award-winning faculty is truly an honor!” She addressed the audience comprising awardees, deans, and supporters. UH President Renu Khator emphasized to professors the importance of their mission to “transform the lives” of students.
The most prestigious award, the Esther Farfel Award, was presented to Elena Grigorenko, a professor of psychology known for her research on child and adolescent learning and developmental disorders. In her acceptance speech, Grigorenko acknowledged the mentors who guided her and expressed her desire to inspire other researchers, stating that she now “surrenders her shoulders” to aspiring scholars.
Among other honorees, Vincent Tam, professor of pharmacy, received recognition in the category of Excellence in Research, Scholarship, and Creative Activity. Tam commented on the recognition saying, “It is an honor for me to be a part of this prestigious group of fellow colleagues that have been given the awards in the past.”
Miriam Afzal Manuel, a clinical assistant professor of mathematics, earned a Faculty Excellence Award for her work with teachHouston, which has been instrumental in preparing future STEM educators. She said, “Receiving the Faculty Excellence Award is a true honor. For me, teaching is both a privilege and a responsibility, one I don’t take lightly.”
Patrick Peters, a professor of architecture, was recognized in the Community Engagement category. He highlighted the impact of the community-focused projects he leads, noting, “Their successes in practice and in life are validation of our shared success in the College.”
Award recipients, nominated by their peers, receive cash awards and commemorative trophies, with the Farfel Award recipient receiving a bronze Cougar. Emmy-winning television and radio host Ernie Manouse emceed the ceremony, noting the longstanding service of UH faculty, some of whom are approaching 60 years at the institution.
Grigorenko, celebrating a decade at UH, reflected on her commitment to the university, stating she has no plans to leave, “I have all I need here, at least for now.” Further details of the award recipients are available on the Faculty Excellence Awards website.
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