Teaching is one of the primary reasons I pursued an academic career, and it remains a source of genuine satisfaction. Beyond its obvious function, teaching compels clarity of thought and coherence of presentation and offers a continuous opportunity to learn from students, regardless of their background or level of experience.
I hold the view that a university's standing is determined not by research excellence alone, but to an equal degree by its commitment to outstanding teaching as a matter of course rather than exception.
This commitment has been rewarding on multiple levels: personally, through the many expressions of appreciation received from students over the years; and formally, through consistently strong course evaluations. I was honored to receive the Credit Suisse Teaching Award twice, in 2007 and 2009.