Scholars Faculty Acknowledged for Contributions to Teaching and Undergraduate Education
May 10, 2004
COLLEGE PARK, Md. – Dorith Grant-Wisdom, Director of the International Studies program of College Park Scholars and Roxanne Lefkoff-Hagius, director of the Scholars Business, Society and the Economy program, have been selected to participate in the Summer Institute on Integrating East Asia into the Undergraduate Curriculum, sponsored by the Inter-College Committee on East Asian Studies and the Curriculum Transformation Committee.
According to Lefkoff-Hagius, “I look forward to incorporating new material into our College Park Scholar's Introduction to Business course.” Grant-Wisdom will continue to incorporate East Asia from a regional perspective in her Scholars colloquia, but add critical analysis of global issues and problems. Added Greig Stewart, Executive Director of College Park Scholars, “Given the growing need to internationalize the curriculum of all undergraduates, Roxanne’s participation in the Freeman Institute will bring added value to all of Scholars.”
John W. Merck, Jr., associate director of the Earth, Life and Time Scholars program, was acknowledged for his contributions to undergraduate education at the 16th Annual Academic Festival sponsored by the College of Computer, Mathematical and Physical Sciences. The Dean’s Award for Excellence in Teaching for an Instructor was presented to Dr. Merck at the College’s celebration on Friday, April 30, 2004.
One of Dr. Merck’s students provided the following tribute: “What is special about John Merck is his absolute enthusiasm/interest in the subject matter. Every time he lectures, he exudes a genuine passion and knowledge for Geology that inspires his students. Indeed, he is the reason I am a Geology major.” Dr. Merck was honored with a plaque and a cash prize.
College Park Scholars is a collaboration of twelve programs comprising a multi-disciplinary learning community. Scholars are academically and creatively talented freshmen and sophomores, eager to explore their future personal and professional roles. Each program prepares students academically for competitive research opportunities and challenging internships. Through civic engagement, team projects and other programs, Scholars examine and develop their personal character.
