University of Iowa Honors Four Faculty Members with Top Teaching Award
In a celebration of outstanding contributions to education, four faculty members at the University of Iowa have been awarded the prestigious President and Provost Award for Teaching Excellence for 2026. This accolade, established by the UI Council on Teaching in 2004, represents the university’s highest recognition for teaching excellence.
Each year, the award is given to three clinical-track or tenure-track faculty members and one instructional-track or adjunct faculty member. The criteria for selection include innovative curriculum design, exceptional student mentorship, commitment to creating accessible learning environments, educational outreach, and a demonstrated interest in students’ academic and career success.
Colleen Bringman
Colleen Bringman, an associate professor of instruction in the Roy J. Carver Department of Biomedical Engineering, has consistently demonstrated a commitment to student success. Recognized annually on the Faculty and Staff Who Made a Difference list since 2018, Bringman has also earned numerous awards, including the College of Engineering’s 2025 Excellence in Teaching Award and the Dedication to Student Success Award. Her innovative approach includes a three-course medical device design sequence that offers hands-on experience in prototyping and industry-aligned problem-solving. Through the Carver Medical Device Design Lab, she supports hundreds of students each year, contributing significantly to their professional development.
Alison K. Guernsey
Alison K. Guernsey, Herschel G. Langdon Professor of Trial Advocacy, is renowned for her role as the director of the Federal Criminal Defense Clinic. This unique program, one of only two such clinics in the nation, provides law students with real-world experience in federal defense. Guernsey’s teaching extends beyond the classroom as she involves students in national policy reform efforts, even preparing testimony for Congress and the U.S. Sentencing Commission. Her commitment to student growth is also evident through an informal network she has established for aspiring public defenders.
Ted Neal
Clinical Professor Ted Neal of the College of Education has been lauded for his dedication to preparing future science educators. His innovative methods, including experiential learning opportunities in Iowa, Colorado, Costa Rica, and Nepal, aim to transform students into confident scientific thinkers. Neal has developed open educational resources, such as a widely used online textbook, and has played a crucial role in establishing the Undergraduate to Graduate science teacher preparation program. His mentorship is noted for its enduring impact, guiding students well beyond their graduation.
Chad R. Tracy
Chad R. Tracy, clinical professor and vice chair for education in the Department of Urology, has been instrumental in developing educational innovations that are now nationally recognized. His initiatives, such as the Urology Intern Boot Camp and the first national virtual sub-internship, have enhanced the residency program and improved national exam scores for residents. With a focus on mentorship, Tracy has supported over 60 residents and numerous fellows, many of whom have become faculty members across the country, ensuring the growth of future urologists through expert guidance.
Read More Here
