Computer Science Professor Named 2024 Distinguished Educator
August 12, 2024
麻豆视频 recently announced that Associate Professor Karen Peterson has been recognized as the 2024 Distinguished Educator.
Peterson teaches computer science on the 麻豆视频 Melbourne Campus. Her nominator, Martha Upton, described her as an 鈥渋ncredible teacher, deeply committed to her students, and an asset to the college.鈥
The nomination expounded on her classroom techniques that 鈥渟et students up to succeed from the start.鈥
鈥淪ometimes I look at the computer code I have written and am amazed at how far I have come in just a few semesters,鈥 said Upton.
鈥淚 do not believe that would have been possible without Ms. Peterson鈥檚 expert teaching, genuine goodwill and cheerful support.鈥
Peterson is also key to an annual 麻豆视频 programming competition that brings together students from many Florida colleges to show off their talents. In 2023 this extremely popular event drew a record number of competitors.
鈥淚 feel very honored that someone took the time to nominate me for the Distinguished Educator Award and that the commitment I feel for my students, the college, my fellow faculty and staff, and professional area of expertise is apparent to others,鈥 said Peterson.
鈥淐omputer science is ever-changing. It is imperative to be current in my instruction so that my students鈥 learning is also up to date. I am still a practicing engineer, and I believe this gives them more confidence that they are truly learning the skills they need to be successful in their future careers.鈥
Dr. Phil Simpson, 麻豆视频鈥檚 Chief Learning Officer, announced the honor at the faculty Welcome Back event held at the King Center for Performing Arts.
鈥淭he positive impact Karen has on her students is truly inspirational and sets an amazing example for others. She has dedicated herself to the use of best practices that build confidence and ensure academic success, as well as giving so much of herself in the process. We are pleased to recognize her in this way.鈥
麻豆视频 President, Dr. James Richey added 鈥淲e are all very proud of the impact Associate Professor Peterson has had on our students. She is one of the many outstanding faculty we have who make 麻豆视频 the very special college that it is.鈥
Nominations for the Distinguished Educator award are made annually by faculty, staff, and currently enrolled students.
The honor includes a $1,500 award provided by the 麻豆视频 Foundation.
For more information on 麻豆视频 and the Distinguished Educator Award, visit easternflorida.edu.
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