Two faculty members at the University of Georgia have been recognized for their dedication to teaching with the prestigious Award for Excellence in Teaching. The 2024-2025 honorees are Maryann E. Gallagher, a senior lecturer in the department of international affairs, and Allison G. Hale, a senior lecturer in the School of Law.
S. Jack Hu, UGA's senior vice president for academic affairs and provost, remarked on the significance of this award: “This award highlights the invaluable contributions of our teaching faculty, and the enormous impact they have on students across campus.” He praised both Gallagher and Hale for their commitment to classroom instruction and mentoring students beyond academic settings.
Maryann E. Gallagher focuses on creating an active learning environment where students engage with current political theories while developing analytical skills. She emphasizes research opportunities and mentorship through programs like the Security Leadership Program. "While the content of courses may differ, my objectives always include developing students’ analytical and critical thinking skills," said Gallagher.
Gallagher's efforts extend beyond her courses as she initiated the SPIA Undergraduate Research Colloquium in 2019 to provide professional research experiences for undergraduates. Her mentorship has left a significant impact on many students including Mariah Cady, a 2024 Rhodes Scholar who stated, “Dr. Gallagher has been an instrumental, inspiring and ever-supportive role model.”
Allison G. Hale's approach is informed by her own experience as a first-year law student. She provides tools and confidence-building exercises to help students master essential legal skills. "I firmly believe that, in order to learn, students need to be shown what to do," Hale explained.
Hale uses diverse teaching methods tailored to different learning styles, such as visual charting techniques and kinesthetic exercises like reconstructing cut-up analyses. Peter B. “Bo” Rutledge noted Hale’s enthusiasm: “Professor Hale’s enthusiasm for teaching is contagious."
The University of Georgia Award for Excellence in Teaching underscores UGA's dedication to educational excellence by recognizing faculty who focus primarily on instruction. Eligible candidates must be full-time faculty with non-tenurable positions at UGA for at least ten years; winners receive a $7,500 cash prize.