By SARA GIBONEY
UNK Communications
KEARNEY – The 2013 Leland Holdt/Security Mutual Life Distinguished Faculty Award was presented to Valerie Cisler, professor of music and chair of the Department of Music and Performing Arts, during winter commencement ceremonies at the University of Nebraska at Kearney.
“Her record of teaching, scholarship and service is described by colleagues as ‘exemplary’ and her dedication to her students as ‘tireless,’” Chancellor Doug Kristensen said while presenting the award.
Cisler has served on the UNK faculty for 19 years.
“In the area of teaching, she is known for creating and developing innovative curriculums that serve as models for programs throughout the country and for mentoring undergraduate research students and sponsoring students in state and regional performances,” Kristensen added.
“Her course evaluations are consistently high, and student evaluation comments are consistently positive as well.”
Cisler is also an author whose works have sold more than 60,000 copies domestically and internationally. She has published in refereed journals and written by invitation for conference proceedings and state journals. As an artist she has performed dozens of times locally, nationally and internationally, and has premiered works by noted composers.
She is a previous recipient of the Pratt-Heins Faculty Award for Scholarship, the campus-wide Creative Teaching Award, and the University of Nebraska system-wide Outstanding Teaching and Instructional Creativity Award.
UNK’s most prestigious faculty award, the Leland Holdt/Security Mutual Life Award recognizes an outstanding teacher/scholar for achievements that bring substantial credit to the university. The activity areas considered include teaching, research and service, with preference given to candidates who demonstrate high accomplishments in all three areas.
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Source: UNK Office of the Chancellor, 308-865-8208
Writer: Sara Giboney, 308.865.8529, giboneys2@unk.edu
