Dance Professor Karen Eliot teaches ballet technique and repertory of the Merce Cunningham Dance Company, as well as classes in dance writing and dance history. With her knowledge of dance history, her commitment to student writing and her experience as co-editor of the peer-reviewed journal, Dance Chronicle, Eliot seeks to serve her undergraduate and graduate students by improving their writing skills.
Interim Executive Dean and Vice Provost Janet Box-Steffensmeier surprised Eliot at the faculty meeting on Monday, January 7 with a presentation of the Ronald and Deborah Ratner Distinguished Teaching Award. “The Ratner Awards recognize faculty for making a difference in students' educations, lives and careers. Candidates are chosen for creative teaching and exemplary records of engaging, motivating and inspiring students,” according to the award website. “Each Ratner Award includes a $10,000 cash prize, as well as a $10,000 teaching account to fund future projects.”
Eliot plans to use the award to support a print publication of student writing and photography documenting and reflecting on the Wexner Center for the Arts' 2019-2020 season of performing arts. "This publication will facilitate student critical writing and interaction with contemporary performing arts," says Eliot. "Students will serve as writers and observers of the arts, and they will also learn about the processes of preparing a manuscript, and editing and bringing a volume to full publication."
