Madison Reporter

The University of Wisconsin–Madison recently announced the recipients of the 2024 Academic Staff Excellence Awards, honoring individuals who have demonstrated exceptional achievements in leadership, public service, research, and teaching.

Among the awardees is Bárbara Rodríguez-Guridi, who received the Chancellor’s Hilldale Award for Excellence in Teaching. Fernando Tejedo, professor and chair of the Department of Spanish & Portuguese, praised Rodríguez-Guridi for inspiring students and providing growth opportunities for graduate educators.

Jim Reardon, the recipient of the WISCIENCE Lillian Tong Teaching Award, was commended by Sharon Kahn, graduate program manager in the Department of Physics, for his passion for teaching and ensuring all students have access to the subject matter.

Benjamin Griffiths, honored with the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Service to the University, was recognized by Nancy K. Lynch, vice chancellor for legal affairs, for his collaborative problem-solving approach and dedication to the university's well-being.

Timothy McGuine, the recipient of the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Research as an Independent Investigator, was praised by Tamara A. Scerpella, professor and chair in the Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, for his efforts in educating high school athletes and their families on the impact of his research studies.

Carla Schubert, honored with the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Research for Critical Research Support, was commended by Karen J Cruickshanks for her collaborative work and significant contributions to various research projects.

William Schwab, recognized with the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Leadership at the Individual Unit Level, was described by David Rakel, professor and chair of the Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, as a respected village elder who leads with compassion and inspiration.

Barbara Anderson, the recipient of the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Leadership at the School, College, or Larger University Level, was lauded by Robert N. Golden, dean of the Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, for her innovative leadership and critical thinking that have advanced the education mission in a vital area.

David A. Hart, honored with the Robert and Carroll Heideman Award for Excellence in Public Service and Outreach, was praised by Tim Campbell, aquatic invasive species program manager, for his impactful career dedicated to preserving the health and accessibility of the Great Lakes.

Clare Huhn and Edward “Teddy” Kaul were both recipients of the Martha Casey Award for Dedication to Excellence. Huhn, an institutional policy analyst, was recognized by Allison La Tarte for her reliable contributions to strategic efforts at UW–Madison. Teddy Kaul, an academic advising manager, was commended by Jennifer Pruitt for transforming the Art History department and increasing its relevance to students.

These exceptional individuals exemplify the University of Wisconsin–Madison’s commitment to excellence in academia and beyond.