College of Education and Human Development

Dr. Ramona Lewis

2021 Mary L. Dawson Teaching Excellence Award Recipient

Dr. Ramona Lewis has been teaching in higher education settings for over 20 years. She teaches undergraduates and graduate students in a variety of modalities in the Department of Educational Leadership, Research and Technology.

Students often comment on Dr. Lewis’s enthusiasm towards the topic and engaging classroom activities and assignments. Dr. Lewis has a passion for co-teaching courses because of reflection and co-learning that happens with collaborators. Many of the nomination letters of support for this award came from graduate student and student affairs professionals who served as co-instructors with Dr. Lewis. She received her B.A. in English from Arizona State University, M.A. in College Student Personnel from Bowling Green State University, and Ed.D. in Educational Leadership from Eastern Michigan University.

Quote from nomination

What makes Dr. Lewis excellent are her versatility in teaching innovative curricula, her focus on cross-disciplinary instruction, her learner-centered teaching strategies, and skill in teaching both undergraduate and graduate students.

- Dr. Eric Archer, nomination letter

Acceptance speech

"Thank you to my nominator and the students, alumni, faculty, and staff who supported my nomination with their letters of support. Over 20 years ago, when I taught my first FYE (first-year experience) course I did not imagine that I would be a full-time faculty member one day. It was that early experience teaching that helped inspire my career path. I am particularly passionate about mentoring graduate students and professionals in the practice of college teaching through co-instruction. Those co-instruction opportunities are mutually beneficial, so I want thank the many individuals with whom I have co-taught courses with over these 20+years—my work is strengthened because of you. Special thanks and blessings to my mentors, my family, and my spiritual community who all modeled and taught me what it means to be a teacher as well as the practical applications of teaching. To the students, from first-year students to doctoral students, thank you for allowing me to be a part of your lives."

- Dr. Ramona Lewis

About the award

This award recognizes one individual (Board-appointed faculty member) who demonstrates exceptional creativity, enthusiasm, and passion for teaching at the undergraduate and/or graduate level(s).

Back to 2020 and 2021 award recipients

Award recipients

About the College of Education and Human Development

As the cornerstone of Western Michigan University, the College of Education and Human Development continues to build upon its rich tradition of excellence by facilitating the preparation and growth of pre K-12 teachers, human service professionals, innovative designers, and health and wellness specialists. Learn more about the programs offered from the College of Education and Human Development.