The University of Texas System Academy of Distinguished Teachers has welcomed eight new faculty members as fellows. The Academy, which is the only system-wide university teaching academy in the United States, includes faculty from all nine UT academic institutions and works to promote teaching excellence and innovation across the state.
At the induction ceremony, Chancellor John M. Zerwas said, “New fellows join a special group devoted to transformative education. Teaching excellence is essential to the UT System’s mission because every well-prepared nurse, engineer, teacher, doctor, scientist, software developer, manager, artist and public servant make for a stronger Texas.”
Founded in 2012, the Academy consists of faculty who have demonstrated exceptional achievements as classroom teachers and mentors. Its members advise UT System leadership and contribute to educational initiatives such as the Little Orange Books series, which shares essays offering insights on classroom learning.
Rebecca Karoff, PhD, associate vice chancellor for academic affairs, stated: “Congratulations to our newest fellows. They are thought leaders at their institutions and beyond, creative in the strategies they bring to their courses and classrooms, and they put students first ensuring their readiness for all that comes next as they complete degrees and pursue careers.”
The 2025 inductees are:
– Gina Amatangelo (The University of Texas at San Antonio), Distinguished Teaching Professor and Professor of Practice in Public Administration.
– Kerrie Anne Ambort-Clark (The University of Texas at Tyler), management faculty member and Assistant Dean in the Soules College of Business.
– Erika Bsumek (The University of Texas at Austin), Ellen Clark Temple Chair in Women’s History.
– Jennifer Dilley (The University of Texas at San Antonio), Distinguished Teaching Professor and Professor of Instruction.
– David Han (The University of Texas at San Antonio), Distinguished Teaching Professor and Romo Endowed Professor.
– Marcela Hebbard (The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley), Senior Lecturer in Writing and Language Studies.
– Clint Peinhardt (The University of Texas at Dallas), Professor of Political Science, Public Policy and Political Economy.
– Peggy Semingson (The University of Texas at Arlington), Associate Professor in TESOL.
These new fellows will contribute to ongoing efforts to improve teaching quality throughout the UT System.
