Annie Murray-Close, associate professor of the Department of Psychological Science in the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Vermont, has been named by the UVM Alumni Association as the 2018 recipient of its George V. Kidder Outstanding Faculty Award.
The Kidder Award honors one full-time University of Vermont faculty member for excellence in teaching and extraordinary contributions to the enrichment of campus life. Established in memory of Dr. George V. Kidder, UVM Class of 1922 and former dean of the College of Arts and Sciences who served the university for more than 70 years, the prestigious award has been presented annually since 1974.
Murray-Close was recognized at a May 3 ceremony at UVM Alumni House, with Dr. Lewis First – a professor in the Department Pediatrics and the 2017 Kidder Award winner – presenting a pin and offering a toast.
“Annie is an accomplished scholar and a remarkable teacher and mentor whose colleagues, students and alumni endorsed highly for this great honor,” said Alan Ryea, vice president for alumni relations at the UVM Foundation.
She now joins the select group of “Kidder” faculty at UVM who have been recognized for igniting passion in the classroom for learning and discovery in so many students. Some of the comments received from students and faculty colleagues about Murray-Close during the nomination process include:
“Annie is a quiet leader but one that has impacted me greatly. She reminds me daily that teaching is about learning from others what works and what doesn’t and that as educators, we have to share that knowledge.” (Colleague)
“She is a fabulous teacher, marvelous mentor, and a tireless advocate for lifelong learning. Annie watches her students grow through their experience – hands-on learning in her lab.” (Colleague)
Murray-Close received her B.A. from Carleton College and her M.A. and Ph.D. degrees from the University of Minnesota. In 2007, she joined the University of Vermont as associate professor in the Department of Psychological Science in the College of Arts and Sciences. Annie teaches courses at both the undergraduate and graduate level. She has been credited for her engaging lecture style, and her commitment to students in and out of the classroom. Annie is a full time faculty member who is well respected across campus by students and her peers.
About The University of Vermont Alumni Association
The University of Vermont Alumni Association fosters lifelong relationships among a vibrant, global and diverse community engaged in a common desire to preserve, celebrate and enhance the University of Vermont and to enrich the lives of its more than 115,000-strong worldwide alumni network. The UVM Alumni Association is part of the UVM Foundation, a nonprofit corporation established to secure and manage private support. The Foundation is currently engaged in Move Mountains: The Campaign for The University of Vermont. For more information, visit alumni.uvm.edu or visit the UVM Alumni House at 61 Summit Street in Burlington, Vermont.
Source: UVM News