Social work professor recognized for teaching excellence

KALAMAZOO--Dr. Linda Reeser, a Western Michigan University professor of social work, has received the 2011-12 College of Health and Human Services Teaching Excellence Award.

The award is based on a mix of classroom teaching; creative and innovative work as it relates to teaching, fieldwork or supervision; and teaching that involves interdisciplinary or collaborative activity. She was one of six faculty members nominated.

Reeser was nominated through multiple letters of support from students, faculty and community members. Current and former students and colleagues noted Reeser's passion for her course subjects and her dynamic teaching style, as well as being a tough, challenging teacher, who creatively uses case studies and other innovative techniques to stimulate independent and critical thinking.

In addition to empowering and advocating for students, Reeser serves as a liaison for field placements and an advisor to the social work student organization Eta Eta Sigma.