Professor Karen Eliot received the OSU Distinguished Teaching Award on Thursday, March 24 when her ballet technique class was interrupted by a surprise visit from Provost Bruce McPheron, who presented her with the award in front of students, faculty and staff. Jim Smith, President of The Alumni Associaiton, Dean Peter Hahn of Arts and Humanities, Dean Scott Herness of the Graduate School and other dignitaries were on hand to offer words of congratulations.  Chair Susan Hadley summed it up best, "Karen has been taught by legends; with this award, she is too is legend."

Recipients are nominated by current or former students for superior teaching. Nominator Josh Manculich, a 2^nd Year MFA candidate, says Karen “is an excellent teacher both in the studio and lecture, and has a quiet strength about her that is contagious.”

photo by Kim Wilczak