Young Teacher Award
Megan Pickett, 2008
"Megan Pickett, you came to Lawrence in 2006, after receiving your Ph.D. in astrophysics at Indiana University and establishing yourself as an excellent teacher at Purdue University. You have brought with you a passion for science and a strong desire to have students share that passion. At Lawrence, you immediately established a reputation for teaching excellence. Your very first lecture in astronomy brought a standing ovation from your students. You have offered courses ranging from introductory astronomy to computational mechanics, and have taught a variety of students that includes physics majors, pre-medical students, and non-science majors. You have also taught in the Freshman Studies program, where you helped explain Albert Einstein to the students, and to the faculty. Your presentations on Pluto and the events leading to its sad demotion from the status of a planet are legendary.
Your passion for science is joined with a tremendous capacity for creativity. When your classes ask to meet outside in the warm spring weather, you have obliged by writing the main points you want to cover in colorful chalk on the sidewalk. I believe the appearance of Hubble’s constant on the walkway in front of Youngchild Hall is a first for Lawrence. In addition to passion and creativity, you are known for your care in providing immediate feedback so students know where to focus their attention and strengthen their learning.
Your success in creating excitement about science is an outstanding accomplishment. In an era when problems of science education are a national concern, it is heartening to know that you are helping make Lawrence a leader in addressing those problems.
In honor of your teaching accomplishments, I am pleased to recognize you today with the 2008 Award for Excellence in Teaching by a Young Faculty Member at Lawrence."
