Hudson College Honors Faculty Excellence During Annual Awards and Honors Ceremony

The Hudson College of Public Health recognized faculty members for excellence in teaching, mentorship and academic achievement during its annual Awards and Honors Ceremony, celebrating educators and scholars whose work continues to shape the future of public health education and research.

Dean’s Master Teaching Award

Amanda Janitz

The Dean’s Master Teaching Award recognizes faculty members who demonstrate sustained excellence in teaching, create enriching learning environments and bring innovative instructional methods into the classroom.

This year’s recipient, Dr. Amanda Janitz, was honored for her exceptional mentorship, commitment to student success and innovative approach to teaching. Peer nominations highlighted her dedication to supporting graduate students through extensive committee leadership and mentorship, including serving as chair or co-chair for multiple doctoral and master’s students.

Colleagues also praised Janitz for continuously evolving her teaching methods through student and peer feedback while incorporating modern analytic strategies, interactive problem-solving exercises and applied research experiences into her courses. Her teaching approach includes hands-on opportunities such as developing R21-style grant proposals and participating in peer review activities designed to mirror the scientific process.

OU Hudson College of Public Health Student Association Faculty Teaching Award

Evan L. Floyd

Selected by students through the OU Hudson College of Public Health Student Association, the Faculty Teaching Award recognizes an educator who exemplifies innovation, mentorship and excellence in public health education.

Students recognized Dr. Evan Floyd for his ability to make complex scientific concepts engaging and accessible while connecting classroom learning to real-world public health challenges. An associate professor whose research focuses on aerosol science, respiratory protection and environmental exposures, Floyd was praised for encouraging students to think critically, solve practical problems and actively engage in the scientific discovery process.

Students also highlighted his mentorship and commitment to fostering curiosity, creativity and confidence among future public health professionals.

Faculty Board Award for Outstanding Teaching

Jennifer Peck

The Faculty Board Award for Outstanding Teaching is nominated by faculty members and selected by the college’s Awards Committee to recognize exceptional contributions to teaching, mentorship and student learning across the OU Hudson College of Public Health.

This year’s award was presented to Dr. Jennifer Peck in recognition of her dedication to instructional excellence and her lasting impact on students throughout the college. Colleagues praised Peck for creating engaging and supportive learning environments that encourage students to think critically, apply public health concepts in meaningful ways and build confidence in their academic and professional development.

Faculty also highlighted Peck’s commitment to student success through her approachable teaching style, thoughtful mentorship and ability to connect classroom learning to real-world public health practice. Her contributions to the college extend beyond instruction alone, fostering collaboration, curiosity and a strong sense of community among students and peers alike.

Through her commitment to high-quality teaching and student engagement, Peck exemplifies the type of educator who helps prepare the next generation of public health professionals to lead and serve their communities.

In addition to recognizing teaching excellence, the college also celebrated faculty members who achieved significant academic milestones through promotion and tenure.

Granted Tenure

• Kerstin Reinschmidt
• Michelle vanDellen

Promotion to Associate Professor

• Jessica Reese

Promotion to Professor

• Tabitha Garwe
• Dee Terrell
• Marianna Wetherill

The annual Awards and Honors Ceremony recognizes the dedication and accomplishments of faculty, staff and students whose work advances the mission of the college and strengthens public health education, research and service across Oklahoma and beyond.