UST Honors Excellence with Faculty Awards at Opening Day Ceremony

The University of St. Thomas celebrated the outstanding achievements of its faculty at the annual Opening Day Ceremony, recognizing three distinguished professors for their exceptional contributions in teaching, research, and service. The awards presented were the Saint Thomas Aquinas Excellence in Teaching Award, the Saint Edith Stein Excellence in Research Award, and the Joseph M. McFadden Excellence in Service Award.

Saint Thomas Aquinas Excellence in Teaching Award: Dr. Crystal D. Tran

Dr. Crystal D. Tran, a long-serving faculty member and department chair at the University of St. Thomas, was honored with the Saint Thomas Aquinas Excellence in Teaching Award. This prestigious award recognizes Dr. Tran's unparalleled dedication to student learning and research, both within and beyond the classroom. Her commitment is evident in her service as a Faculty Senate representative and Institutional Review Board member, where she has mentored students in ethical research and leadership.

Dr. Tran has taught over 12 different psychology courses at the university, showcasing her cross-disciplinary expertise and dedication to students' holistic, applied, and collaborative lifelong learning. Her colleagues and students alike celebrate her as a critical support system and a shining example of teaching excellence. Congratulations, Dr. Tran!

Saint Edith Stein Excellence in Research Award: Dr. James Matthew Wilson

Dr. James Matthew Wilson, the Cullen Foundation Chair in English Literature, received the Saint Edith Stein Excellence in Research Award for his outstanding contributions to intellectual excellence in research and publishing. Dr. Wilson, who also directs the university's Master of Fine Arts in Writing program, is the prolific author of fourteen books, including four published in the past year. His research has been widely recognized, with numerous articles and essays published in peer-reviewed and popular journals, as well as an upcoming monograph.

Dr. Wilson's distinguished career has been acknowledged by various prestigious awards, including the Hiett Prize from the Dallas Institute of Humanities and the Parnassus Prize from Memoria College. In addition to his role at the University of St. Thomas, he serves as poet-in-residence at the Benedict XVI Institute and holds various editorial positions. Congratulations, Dr. Wilson!

Joseph M. McFadden Excellence in Service Award: Dr. Michael E. Sullivan

Dr. Michael E. Sullivan, the Program Director of Graduate Studies, Project Director for Title V Grants (PSON), and Program Director of Health Care Administration Graduate Studies (CSB), was recognized with the Joseph M. McFadden Excellence in Service Award. Dr. Sullivan embodies the spirit of Christian service through his unwavering dedication to caring for others, regardless of their background or circumstances.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Sullivan played a crucial role in securing partnerships that enabled the university to provide over 1,900 free COVID-19 tests and administer more than 1,800 vaccinations. He also coordinates the annual administration of flu vaccines to the university community. His work extends to securing grants for community health initiatives, such as distributing Naloxone kits to address campus drug overdoses. Dr. Sullivan's compassionate service and commitment to justice in the service of faith are truly commendable. Congratulations, Dr. Sullivan!

Remarkable Achievements

The University of St. Thomas takes great pride in recognizing the remarkable achievements of its faculty members. The dedication of Dr. Crystal D. Tran, Dr. James Matthew Wilson, and Dr. Michael E. Sullivan reflects the university's commitment to excellence in teaching, research, and service. These awards not only honor their individual accomplishments but also inspire the entire UST community to strive for continued excellence in their academic and professional endeavors.

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