University Award for Excellence in Teaching
Dorrit Friedlander, 1980
"What faculty member most dramatically combines Gemutlichkeit, chutzpah, donaire, and warmth, to say nothing of being able to pronounce three of those words better than the President? Dorrit Friedlander, the spark in your eye, the timber of your voice, and the sprightliness of your spirit have been fixtures at Lawrence for twenty-nine years--a length of service exceeded by only one of your Main Hall colleagues--during which time you have shared your talent, learning, enthusiasm, and love with generation after generation of your students of the German language, and from time to time of Spanish as well. Whether you teach in the classroom in Appleton or in the seminar in Germany, whether you share your famous cheesecake in your house or your homespun advice in Munich, whether you welcome to the campus a budding German scholar from a Wisconsin high school or an accomplished Lawrence alumnus or alumna from any corner of the world, you evidence the superb qualities of the born teacher. You have, however, also worked hard on your teaching and command the respect and admiration of all who are touched by your presence. After taking care of the minds of your students, you have always had enough energy and affection left to devote them to the welfare of your friends. That they live and work happily in the restored Main Hall in renewed spirit, is largely due to your energy, your patience, your efficiency, and occasionally your temper.
Your commitment to teaching and your devotion to the University are qualities that make Lawrence a place of distinction. In recognition of your achievements as a teacher and your contributions as a colleague, I am pleased to present you with the 1980 Excellent Teacher Award."