11 Fresno State professors receive 2015 teaching awards

Fresno State announced the winners of its annual teaching awards on Tuesday.

Anil Shrestha, professor of plant science, received the school’s top teaching honor, the 2015 Provost’s Award for Excellence in Teaching. Shrestha started at Fresno State in 2008. He received the award for his ability to draw students into agriculture and keep them interested through humor and encouragement. He also pushes students to seek help through workshops and apply for scholarships.

Kevin J. Ayotte, associate professor of communications, won a Faculty Service Award for his work ensuring the university’s compliance with disability laws. Kathryn Forbes, associate professor of women’s studies, also received a Faculty Service Award for helping the university be more responsive to modern human needs.

Kenneth L. Froelich, associate professor of music, won a Research, Scholarship or Creative Achievement Award for the 32 creative works he’s written in his 10 years at Fresno State.

Eric Person, associate professor of chemistry, won an Innovation Award for leading numerous education initiatives that have helped hundreds of students every semester.

The following professors received Promising New Faculty Awards: Monique L. Bell, assistant professor of marketing; Mara Brady, assistant professor of earth and environmental sciences; Lori Clune, assistant professor of history; Frederick L. Nelson, assistant professor of curriculum and instruction; Jes Therkelsen, assistant professor of mass communication and journalism; and Pei Xu, assistant professor of agricultural business.

This story was originally published April 28, 2015 at 8:08 PM with the headline "11 Fresno State professors receive 2015 teaching awards."