Three College of Education Faculty Receive Excellence In Education Awards

Three MU College of Education faculty members, chosen for their commitment to teaching beyond the classroom, were honored at the Excellence in Education Awards reception April 21.

The event, hosted by the Division of Student Affairs and MU Parents Association, recognized ten faculty members throughout the university who have demonstrated exceptional skills at enhancing the learning experience for MU students.

Puncky Paul Heppner, professor in Educational, School and Counseling Psychology (ESCP), Deborah L. Hanuscin, assistant professor in Learning, Teaching, and Curriculum (LTC), and Mike Pullis, chairperson for Special Education (SPED) each received the award after being nominated by students and others who recognized or were influenced by their work.

“These faculty have been recognized for their contributions to enriching the education of our students,” said Cathy Scroggs, Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs. “They have gone above and beyond for students, maintaining a focus on students' needs.”

Heppner, who is also the co-director for the Center for Multicultural Research, Training and Consultation, was nominated for both his compassion and impact on former and current students, as well as 30 years of dedicated service to the College of Education.

“Students’ experiences with Heppner as both an adviser and mentor have transformed them,” Scroggs said. “Puncky has continually served as a social justice advocate for both his students and the university.”

Hanuscin was selected for the award because of her focus on enhancing the value of students’ education through both advising and teaching. In addition, Hanuscin, who also represents the department of Physics and Astronomy, was recognized for her work with the National Science Teachers Association.

“Deborah has an extraordinary gift for giving advice and building a relationship with students,” Scroggs said. “She has stood by her students and put others before herself.”

Pullis, the third honoree for the College of Education, was chosen for his long-standing commitment to his students through the Teaching Fellows Program and commitment as a co-facilitator for the Freshman Interest Groups programs at MU.

“One student called Dr. Pullis the ‘consummate reflective teacher,’” Scroggs said. “His dedication to each student’s learning experience helps them realize their own potential as teachers.”

Vice Provost Brian Foster, who also spoke at the event, said the ten award recipients demonstrated creative ways to work with student organizations or programs in ways that helped students “test drive” their skills and knowledge.

“Learning in the classroom is simply a prerequisite to education,” Foster said. “You have to take that learning outside as knowledge, use it and be passionate about it.”