Byrd Graduate Educator Award

The Office of Graduate Studies is accepting nominations for the Louise Byrd Graduate Educator Award.  The Louise Byrd Graduate Educator Award was established to honor the memory of Louise Byrd, long-time Secretary of the Graduate School and of the Graduate Council.  Louise Byrd was noted for her deep concern for the welfare of graduate students.  Each year, in her memory, a faculty member who demonstrates the qualities of concern for graduate students as scholars and individuals is presented this award. This award includes a cash prize and is highlighted on the Graduate Studies website.

The Nomination Deadline is April 15, 2021 (by midnight). 

Nomination Process: All regular members of the Graduate Faculty are eligible to receive this recognition. Graduate students, past or present, and graduate faculty members are invited to nominate a member of the graduate faculty. 

The nomination should address these issues:

• The nominee’s extraordinary devotion to graduate students and their education.
• The nominee should be a distinguished, active scholar in their field.
• The nominee should exhibit a proven record of continuing interest in the growth and success of graduate students, expressed through quality lectures, availability, psychological support, graduate research advising, and contact outside the classroom.
• A description of the nominee’s impact on their students’ accomplishments as scholars and in the quality of professional appointments in their field.
• Clear evidence should be presented that the nominee’s concern for graduate students goes significantly beyond that of the average, but dedicated, members of the Graduate Faculty. Supporting letters from colleagues and current or former students and an updated curriculum vita greatly strengthen the nomination.

To nominate a professor for the graduate educator award, please complete the online form.

 Louise Byrd Graduate Educator Awardees