College of Liberal Arts Announces 2026 Teaching Award Recipients
The College of Liberal Arts is proud to announce the recipients of its annual teaching awards, recognizing exceptional dedication to student learning and instructional excellence across the college.
The Kenneth T. Kofmehl Outstanding Undergraduate Teaching Award honors the legacy of Dr. Kenneth T. Kofmehl (1920–2002), professor emeritus of political science. Dr. Kofmehl served on the University faculty from 1957 until his retirement in 1990, earning distinction as an award‑winning teacher. Established in 2003, the award celebrates undergraduate educators who embody his commitment to inspiring and impactful teaching.
2026 Kenneth T. Kofmehl Outstanding Undergraduate Teaching Award Recipients
Kali Rubaii, assistant professor (Anthropology)
Bradley Dilger, professor; director of writing (English)
Deborah Fleetham, clinical associate professor (History)
Tyler Girard, assistant professor (Political Science)
Huai‑Rhin Kim, clinical assistant professor (School of Languages and Cultures)
In addition to the Kofmehl Award, the College of Liberal Arts recognizes outstanding teaching through three college‑wide awards established to highlight excellence at all instructional levels.
College of Liberal Arts Award for Outstanding Undergraduate Teacher
Ryan Schneider, associate professor (English)
William Gray, professor (History)
Patrick Kain, associate professor (Philosophy)
Li Wei, teaching assistant professor (School of Languages and Cultures)
College of Liberal Arts Award for Outstanding Graduate Teacher
Cheryl Zhenyu Qian, professor (Design, Art, and Performance)
Dorsey Armstrong, professor (English)
College of Liberal Arts Award for Outstanding Lecturer
Heather Vickers, senior lecturer (Design, Art, and Performance)
Michael Johnson, lecturer (English)
These faculty members represent the highest standards of teaching within the College of Liberal Arts. Their dedication enriches the academic experience for students across disciplines and strengthens the college’s mission to foster critical inquiry, creativity and engaged learning.