Dan Frisbie is recognized for exceptional training of over 70 PhD students and postdoctoral fellows in state-of-the-art materials research, many of whom are now leaders in academia and industry; for exemplary graduate teaching in materials science; and for leadership in graduate education while he was Head of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, especially his decision to expand interdisciplinary education in data science, machine learning, artificial intelligence, and chemical and materials engineering.

Christopher Federico has mentored and published extensively with Ph.D. students in two disciplines. As graduate faculty in two departments and the PhD Minor in Political Psychology, he plays a key role in the development of interdisciplinary doctoral training in political psychology and advanced methodological training of graduate students in multiple disciplines.

Angela Birnbaum is widely recognized by students for her accessibility, advocacy, and ability to tailor guidance to diverse career goals. She is a recognized expert in clinical pharmacology of special populations and pharmacometric analyses and in training of the next generation of scientists in this field. Dr. Birnbaum uses a holistic and individualized approach and her contributions to graduate teaching and training have been recognized by peers nationally.

William Arnold has developed innovative programming at the intersection of environmental engineering, art, and policy. He co-authored a highly regarded and widely used water chemistry textbook and has mentored 28 doctoral and master’s student researchers, leading to prolific scholarship and impactful research findings that benefit society. 

Lindsey Weiler is a highly regarded educator and researcher whose work has shaped undergraduate education in Family Social Science. Dr. Weiler employs a whole‐student approach that empowers, respects, and inspires learners. Through the integration of her skills as a clinician and educator, her leadership is creating measurable and lasting impacts on students through exemplary instruction, innovative program development, and high-impact mentorship.

Jacob Wainman’s innovative courses provide students with the necessary challenges and support to develop skills essential to their future careers. He is committed to making his classroom a welcoming space where all students can learn from their mistakes. His research on chemistry education studies the impact of cutting-edge teaching methods on students’ success, and impacts all chemistry students at UMD.

Jane Sumner specializes in political economy and research methodology. Her expertise in academic programming development has helped her students and advisees succeed in their chosen path during and after their time at the University of Minnesota. Dr. Sumner’s teaching skills are highly regarded by both students and colleagues.

Donna Spannaus-Martin has three decades of experience as a dedicated and creative teacher who deeply cares about students and their overall learning experiences. Her expertise in technology-enhanced learning began early in her career, and her advocacy for students and her profession at both state and national levels serves as a model of leadership. Her mentoring extends beyond graduation, providing pathways into the profession for students from all backgrounds.

Rachel Olson’s teaching blends authentic, community-engaged research and individualized mentorship to facilitate student access to transformative experiences. Dr. Olson nurtures student-initiated projects by providing research mentorship, grant support, and access to opportunities and resources, and cultivates students’ identities as emerging scientists and capable problem-solvers.