Penn State Honors Outstanding Educators for Excellence in Teaching

By Blake Jackson

Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences has announced its 2025 teaching award recipients, recognizing educators who demonstrate exceptional commitment to student learning.

The awards honor faculty members whose creativity, passion, and dedication support student success in and beyond the classroom.

Elizabeth Karcher, associate dean for undergraduate education, praised the awardees, noting, “Our faculty teaching award winners exemplify the very best of our college. Their dedication to the college’s teaching mission and to the success of our students is truly exceptional. Through their creativity, passion and commitment, they create meaningful learning experiences that shape our students’ futures. We are grateful for the excellence they bring to our college and the inspiration they provide to both colleagues and students.”

The Community of Teaching Excellence Award recognizes educators who demonstrate strong mentorship, innovative teaching methods, and deep commitment to students.

This year’s recipients include Jason Keagy, Daniel Foster, Jennifer Koehl, and Josephine Wee. Each has contributed to strengthening academic programs through course development, mentorship, and leadership.

Two faculty members, Jody Kull and Veronica Roman-Reyna, received the North American Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture Teaching Award of Merit, which highlights educators who use effective, student-centered teaching strategies and promote engagement and scholarship in agriculture.

The Paul R. and Joan M. Shellenberger Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching was presented to Justin Brown for his outstanding dedication to students within the Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences. Colleagues noted his ability to foster a classroom atmosphere of enthusiasm, trust, and support.

Awardees were recognized for a wide range of contributions. Keagy emphasizes experiential learning and inclusive teaching.

Foster prepares future agricultural educators and mentors students through certification processes. Koehl revitalized the One Health minor and promotes collaborative, ethical learning. Wee developed key undergraduate courses and advises student groups.

Kull is known for her clear instruction, engaging lectures, and real-world experiential learning opportunities. Roman-Reyna focuses on critical thinking, creativity, and inclusive teaching environments. Brown stands out for innovative technology use and dedication to independent student projects.

Together, these educators demonstrate the college’s commitment to excellence in teaching and student development.

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