Geology faculty member receives WSUs highest teaching award

Larry Lemke received the President's Award for Excellence in Teaching in April 2006, presented by WSU Provost Nancy Barrett. This annual award provides recognition for faculty who have made outstanding contributions to teaching at Wayne State University.

Dr. Lemke was cited for his contributions to course development and the growth of the recently developed environmental science degree program. Dr. Lemke views this award as an honor for the department as well as himself and hopes that it will contribute to the positive momentum that geology and environmental science have seen in the recent past at WSU. Excerpts from his citation are provided below:

"Whether he is teaching introductory environmental geology or the most advanced course in economic geology, he engages his students deeply in the subject and he engages with them in the learning process."

"Much of the success of these programs is due to his exceptional teaching abilities. He makes complex subjects understandable, incorporates computer modeling programs into his courses to bring the subject matter to life, and has created challenging and education games to help students study and learn. His GEOPARDY! game has become legendary in the department."

"Professor Lemke has a deep commitment to student learning and has earned the respect and admiration of his faculty colleagues as an outstanding teacher who is most deserving of a 2006 President's Award for Excellence in Teaching."