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SALT LAKE CITY — Students at the Salt Lake University Institute of Religion honored a University of Utah instructor Friday for her "superior teaching skill, dedication to students, enthusiasm for one's academic discipline and the love of learning in general."
Those are the qualities recognized in the Excellence in Education award, which is awarded to a U. faculty member each year by university students who are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints attending the institute.
Maggie Cummings, an associate instructor in the university's math department, was chosen for this year's award.
Cummings has been at the U. since 2011, and she currently teaches freshman-level math and various courses for math teachers. Previously, she worked in the Jordan School District as a math teacher, department chairwoman, school administrator, and director of mathematics and science education.
Tracy Williams, director of the institute, said students have expressed admiration for Cummings' ability to teach math concepts effectively while giving individualized help to students who struggle academically.
"A number of students just were appreciative of her teaching and her encouragement and what she has given to them," Williams said.
He said students also noted how Cummings treats them "as individuals and people, not just as a number sitting in her class."
Instructors are nominated based on other criteria in their interaction with students, such as respecting the beliefs and values of students, being involved with student life in and outside the classroom, maintaining the "integrity and dignity" of their position in and outside the classroom, and encouraging and empowering students to excel academically, Williams said.
Faculty members with the most nominations from students receive the award, which has been given annually since 2005.
Williams said the award has helped the institute build collaborative relationships with the university, though that wasn't its original intent. He said many faculty also value the award more than others because it comes from students, not administration.
"There's a really good feeling and a good thing going on between the university and the institute right now," he said.
