The College of Education at the University of Montevallo recently honored a number of alumni at a dinner held in conjunction with homecoming activities on Feb. 6. At the annual dinner, the College of Education also recognizes one faculty member for his or her excellence.
Ernest Outstanding Commitment to Teaching Award
This year’s recipient of the Ernest Outstanding Commitment to Teaching Award is Jenifer Williams of Montevallo. Williams serves as an associate professor of elementary education and program coordinator of the Elementary Education Program. Both colleagues and students nominated Williams for this award.
“She has shown her dedication to the success of the Elementary Education Program and each student that comes through, by the countless hours that she spends preparing for classes, meetings, trainings, research and workshops. Dr. Williams is an inspiration to not only her students but also colleagues,” said a faculty nominator.
Many of the faculty and student nominations mentioned Williams’ diligence, enthusiasm and “student-first” attitude.
A former student explained this attitude in a nomination letter, “As a student, you don’t realize the amount of effort teachers put into their lessons. Looking back now, as an educator myself, I can appreciate her dedication to this calling. I value her as a mentor and teacher and I can honestly say that I would not be the teacher I am today had I not had her as a professor.”
Professor of Elementary Education Almir Smajic presents Jenifer Williams the Ernest Outstanding Commitment to Teaching Award.