In recognition of his outstanding freshmen-level teaching and enthusiastic support of students in his classroom, Justin Stewart, a Department of Communication and Journalism lecturer, is the recipient of the University of Wyoming's Golden Apple Award.
The Beatrice Gallatin Beauf Golden Apple of the Hesperides Award was developed from Mrs. Beuf's strong interest in education and the important role teachers play in developing young people.
"She wanted to recognize teachers of freshmen-level Arts and Sciences courses because she believed it is they who can intellectually inspire students to discover and learn," says College of Arts and Sciences Dean Ollie Walter. He says a committee of A&S students makes the final selection from among several nominees.
"This course really grabbed my attention, and it was a fun experience. The instructor was very helpful and clear about everything," wrote a former student.
Such praise for Stewart's teaching abilities is common among students in the "Introduction to Human Communication" course he teaches at least once each academic year. Also, his efforts in the "Public Speaking" course -- with 600 students every semester -- complement his instructional contributions. He not only supervises half of the graduate assistants teaching the course, but also teaches two sections for at-risk Synergy program students.
Stewart serves as the department's summer orientation adviser. His office door can often be found open for students and advisees alike. One recommender commented, "He is a true asset to the University of Wyoming, and a large percentage of our students are better off because they were touched by his work."
A UW faculty member since 2005, Stewart received the 2010 Extraordinary Merit in Teaching Award from the College of Arts and Sciences. He also received the 2004 Ellbogen Outstanding Graduate Assistant Teaching Award. His research interests center around family communication, especially the relationship between divorce and parent-offspring communication.
