WMU awards flute and geography professors for outstanding teaching
KALAMAZOO, Mich.—From mentoring musicians as they hone their craft to helping students understand the real-world impact of geography, Dr. Martha Councell-Vargas and Dr. Lisa DeChano-Cook, respectively, have made lasting contributions to student success at Western Michigan University. In recognition of their outstanding teaching, Councell-Vargas and DeChano-Cook have been named recipients of WMU’s Distinguished Teaching Award, the University’s highest honor for teaching excellence.
“Great teaching is measured not only by what students learn, but also by the confidence and sense of possibility they carry forward,” says Dr. Chris Cheatham, provost and executive vice president for academic affairs. “Dr. Lisa DeChano-Cook makes complex ideas accessible while ensuring students feel known and supported. Dr. Martha Councell-Vargas pairs high expectations with individualized mentorship that helps musicians find their own artistic voice. Their influence continues long after a course or lesson ends, shaping the lives and careers of the students they teach.”
Both professors will be formally recognized at the Fall Awards Celebration alongside recipients of the Distinguished Faculty Scholar, Distinguished Service, Emerging Scholar and annual Make a Difference awards. The event on Friday, Oct. 2, begins at 11 a.m. in the Fetzer Center’s Kirsch Auditorium.
Dr. Martha Councell-Vargas: Helping students prepare for successful music careers
Councell-Vargas, professor of flute, is being recognized for her teaching, mentorship and impact on student development. For decades, she has helped musicians refine their talents while preparing them for successful careers as performers, educators, music therapists and scholars.
“Dr. Martha Councell-Vargas has been an incredible teacher to work with. I completed my bachelor’s in music performance under her instruction, and was so pleased with her incredible instruction that I re-applied for my master’s at WMU and accepted my offer to return and continue my studies with Dr. CV,” wrote graduate student Sierra Staman. “She is an incredible educator and amazing mentor.”
Councell-Vargas, head of a competitive flute studio, gives individual lessons and teaches small-group technique and studio performance classes. Her students have earned recognition at regional, national, and international competitions and festivals, and many have gone on to pursue advanced degrees and professional careers in music. Alumni credit her with helping them navigate auditions, competitions, graduate school applications and career decisions long after graduation.
Councell-Vargas has also brought renowned performers and educators to campus and created opportunities for students to engage with musicians and scholars from around the world. With the support of a WMU Presidential Innovation Professorship (2022-25), she has expanded the standard flute repertoire by prioritizing the discovery, commissioning, performance, recording and teaching of lesser-known flute works by historically underrepresented composers.
“A true teacher plants seeds that flourish for a lifetime, and I carry many of those seeds that Dr. CV has planted in me,” wrote alumna Yamileth Almeida Maza. “Dr. Councell-Vargas truly deserves this recognition for her dedication and hard work, both with her students and the entire School of Music team.”
Dr. Lisa DeChano-Cook: Making geography meaningful and accessible
DeChano-Cook, professor in the School of Environment, Geography and Sustainability, is being recognized for helping students connect geography concepts to the world around them while preparing them for careers in education, planning, research and environmental fields.
“Dr. DeChano-Cook has an ability to make even the most complex topics clear and engaging for her students. She goes above and beyond to ensure that every student feels supported and challenged to do their best,” wrote student Jadon Nutt. “Dr. DeChano-Cook has most definitely given me more confidence in the field of geography.”
Whether teaching introductory physical geography courses or advanced classes in environmental impact assessment and disaster management, DeChano-Cook connects course material to real-world events and local examples, helping students understand how geography shapes everyday life.
In addition, students and alumni alike describe her as a mentor who provides guidance on research projects, graduate school applications, career opportunities and professional development.
Her teaching emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving and Experience-Driven Learning, giving students opportunities to apply classroom concepts to real-world challenges. Those experiences help students develop skills they continue to use long after graduation. Former students now working in planning, research, higher education and government service frequently point to DeChano-Cook’s courses as foundational to their careers.
“In all my time in academia, I cannot think of another professor more deserving of this award than Dr. Lisa DeChano-Cook,” wrote alumna Hailey Marie Lyczynski. “Her teaching and mentorship continues to inspire me.”
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