The First-Year Seminar Advisory Council, at the direction of the Office of the Provost, has named Franny Perez-Ramirez, graduate teaching assistant for the Center for Learning, Advising and Student Success, as the recipient of the inaugural First-Year Seminar Instructor of the Year Award.
The award recognizes a First-Year Seminar instructor who demonstrates excellence in teaching, a commitment to student success and innovation in course design.
More than 200 nominations were collected from students, faculty and staff across the WVU System.
Perez-Ramirez’s inclusive and collaborative approach to teaching makes her students feel valued, respected and empowered to take an active role in their academic journey. Connectivity is at the heart of her work where she fosters a sense of belonging, encourages open communication and incorporates immersive teaching methods to enhance the learning experience. She uses team-based learning and real-world, problem-solving exercises to help students develop soft skills in critical thinking, teamwork and accountability.
Students say she fosters a safe, respectful and positive learning environment and is always willing to help. Her dedication to cultivating connections beyond the classroom inspires her students to take part in service-learning opportunities, outreach projects, workshops and campus events.
Perez-Ramirez is a doctoral student in the Educational Theory and Practice program in the College of Applied Human Sciences and is working toward certificates in University Teaching and Women and Gender Studies.
She will be awarded $1,250 for professional development and recognized during a faculty and staff awards reception at Blaney House April 16.
Learn more about the First-Year Seminar Instructor of the Year Award.