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Regarded as a caring and very personal teacher by her students, Zhiqiang Wang, Ph.D., associate professor of chemistry and biochemistry, was one of the recipients of the 2017 Distinguished Teaching Award, joining an elite group of more than 150 Kent State faculty members recognized for excellence in the classroom.

Dr. Wang, who teaches at 5X���� at Geauga, says she felt overwhelmed and honored when her colleagues surprised her with the award while she was in the middle of teaching a class.  

“It was overwhelming, like a dream come true,” Dr. Wang says. “I’m so thrilled to be a recipient of this prestigious award.”

With a teaching philosophy that centers on inspiring, engaging and being a role model for students through challenges and critical thinking, Dr. Wang says she focuses her class on making students lifetime learners.

“Chemistry tends to be hard for most students,” Dr. Wang says. “I try to connect the concepts of chemistry to their lives so they look forward to learning more.”

Sponsored by the Kent State Alumni Association, the Distinguished Teaching Award is the university’s most prestigious honor in teaching for tenure-track faculty. Awards are presented to three full-time faculty members who demonstrate exceptional teaching in the classroom and an unwavering dedication to students.

Lisa Clark, a student and nominator of Dr. Wang, says she is thrilled her professor is being recognized for her wonderful contributions to the education of so many and appreciates her caring approach to making a difference in our world.

“Dr. Wang began each class with a smile and warm personal greetings for each student,” Ms. Clark says. “She was patient and graciously answered my questions, even though I know she was very busy at times.”

Dr. Wang says she is thankful that Kent State and the Alumni Association take the time and effort to acknowledge good teaching.

Dr. Wang says she will continue trying to make students passionate about learning by including fun experiences and engaging lectures.

“The more you engage students, the better they learn,” Dr. Wang says. “It’s very rewarding to see students succeed.”

The recipients of the 2017 Distinguishing Teaching Award were recognized on Oct. 20 at the University Teaching Council’s Celebrating College Teaching conference and luncheon.