UH Hilo honors teaching excellence
University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo
Steven Lundblad
Patricia Hensley
Lisa Parr
The University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo honored members of its faculty with excellence in teaching awards during this year’s Spring Commencement held on May 12.
Dr. Steven Lundblad, professor of geology, is the recipient of the University of Hawaiʻi Board of Regents Award for Excellence in Teaching.
Lundblad is recognized as a popular and creative teacher, a remarkable mentor and a resource for students. His teaching style is described as dynamic and interactive, with a wonderful mix of entertaining and thought-provoking lectures, in-class activities, discussion, group work and demonstrations. Through his Geoarchaeology laboratory, Lundblad provides opportunities for students to assist in cutting-edge research, present findings at national conferences, and co-author scientific papers. Those who know him as a teacher and colleague say Lundblad produces better students and better scientists.
The Frances Davis Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching was presented to Dr. Patricia Hensley, assistant professor of nursing.
Hensley has earned a reputation as a dedicated nurse, educator and student advocate with a passion for teaching what she loves. Hensley works tirelessly to make complicated subjects easier to grasp by utilizing a variety of teaching methods, including study aids, critical-thinking exercises and hands-on activities. She sets high expectations for her students, and they respond by putting in the extra time and effort required to become the best possible nurses they can be.
The Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching was awarded to Lisa Parr, instructor in marine science.
Parr is committed to ensuring every student achieves their highest potential. Her teaching style and classes are specifically designed to engage and challenge students and fit each class dynamic. She also serves as site coordinator for the Marine Option Program and co-director of the scientific diving field course, Quantitative Underwater Ecological Surveying Techniques. To address the demand for advising, Parr created a Peer Advising Group that helps ensure no one is denied a timely graduation due to inadequate planning.