Award Nomination Requirements

Award Nomination Requirements

Jump to Award

Spirit of the Land-Grant Award

The CAHNR Spirit of the Land-Grant Award recognizes faculty that embraces the Land-Grant Mission in our college. This award will be given to a CAHNR faculty member who integrates research, teaching, and extension in their program.

The Land-Grant Mission 

  • The Morrill Act of 1862 was created to establish state institutions to educate people in agriculture and mechanics arts without excluding scientific and classic studies. Since then, Land-Grant Universities have received incentives from the federal government to generate and pass along new information in food and agriculture, economic development, among others, as stated in the hatch Act of 1887 and the Smith-Lever Act 1914, for instance.  

The College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources has its roots in serving the public with the most updated scientific information. Additionally, the outreach and research is combined with formal teaching. The spirit of the Land-Grant Award aims to honor faculty that reinforces our mission of integrating education, research, and outreach, going above and beyond their formal appointment.    

Eligibility:  

  • Faculty or Staff in the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources.

Nomination 

  • Nominations should be submitted by a CAHNR employee.
  • Nominations will not be accepted for groups. 
  • Nominations packets should follow the guidelines and include all required documents.  

Nomination required documents:

  • A nomination cover letter should be no longer than one page. 
  • The cover letter should mention, in a non-technical way, why the candidate is suitable for the award based on the award criteria.
  • A content section, no more than three pages that should be divided into the following topics:
    • Summary 
      • Description of the candidate’s career and its highlights on teaching, research, and extension.  
    • Evidence of Research Innovation
      • The candidate should demonstrate how the research program is successful by publications, grants, patents, among others
    • Evidence of Education Success
      • The candidate should show evidence of teaching and learning success in educational activities for K12, undergraduate and graduate students, and/or professionals. Surveys, student evaluation of teaching and/or other evidence of teaching success should be used. 
    • Extension and Outreach
      • A description of the candidate’s participation in extension or outreach programs and their impacts should be stated in this section. Focus on the involvement of the candidate should be a priority instead of a detailed program description.
    • Integration and the Land-Grant Mission
      • In this section, the candidate should demonstrate how their career aligns with the Land-Grant Mission, especially showing the integration of teaching, research, and extension.
  • Only the first page of the nomination cover letter and the first three pages of the nomination section will be evaluated in case they exceed the maximum length. 
  • Up to three letters of support
  • The Excellence Committee recommends that at least one letter of support comes from an external source (i.e., not from UConn).
  • If more than three letters of support are submitted, only the first three will be used, and the subsequent ones will be ignored.
  • Candidate’s Curriculum Vitae should contain the following sections:
    • Education
    • Appointments 
    • Memberships
    • Service
    • Funded Grants
    • Awards
    • Publications 

CAHNR Excellence in Research Award

The University of Connecticut College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources Excellence in Research Award is designed to recognize UConn CAHNR faculty members demonstrating a superior commitment to an on-going research program.

Nomination Requirements:

  1. Must be a UConn faculty member.
  2. Must be engaged in and show evidence of an on-going outstanding and creative research program.

Nomination/Application Process:

  • Persons interested in being nominated for this award should make their interest known to faculty who can complete the nomination form.
  • Each department may nominate multiple candidates for the Excellence in Research Award.
  • Previous awardees may be nominated again after 5 years.
  • Nomination packets and letters of support must be submitted in electronic form using pdf format in one file. Required documents are listed below. The pdf file name format is ResearchExcellence_NomineeName.
  • The nominator should address any applicable criteria described below.

Please use the following checklist as a Table of Contents for the Nomination Packet

  • Nomination Form
  • A non-technical statement from the candidate (3 pages maximum) including
    1. overview of the research program over the past ten years;
    2. research progress and innovations over the past ten years;
    3. current and prospective research collaborations;
    4. impact of candidate’s research program on the field;
    5. mentorship of graduate students and other laboratory personnel; and
    6. future research goals and plans.
  • The nominee’s curriculum vitae within a 5-page limit to include:
    1. the names, level, and date graduated (or anticipated) for all graduate students;
    2. type and amount of grants or contracts received in the past 10 years (descending order)
    3. peer reviewed publications in the past 10 years, and
    4. awards for research presented.

Selection Criteria:  

Candidates will be evaluated on the basis of demonstrated excellence and lasting impact in the following areas: 

  • Ability to establish and sustain a research program as evidenced by grantsmanship, publications and mentorship of students and postdoctoral fellows 
  • Impact of the candidate’s research program on the field 
  • Creativity or innovation of the research program including novel discoveries, methodology, etc. 
  • Ability to develop research collaborations and partnerships 
  • Evidence of continual interest in the improvement of research program 
  • Evidence of excellence in research focusing on priority issues tied to the College Strategic Vision or the input of stakeholders 
  • Evidence of meaningful impact on a community, our state, region or beyond 
  • Evidence of going above and beyond the expected duties of the position. 

Selection Process:

The CAHNR Excellence Committee will review all nominee materials and select an award candidate based on evaluations of the selection criteria, as outlined above. Members of the Excellence Committee who nominate a candidate for an award or write a letter of recommendation will not be assigned to evaluate that nomination category during preliminary screening. The nominating member may not participate in discussions during the all-committee meeting and will refrain from voting for that award.

Awardee(s) will be notified and recognized at the Spring Honors and Awards Excellence ceremony. Award Funds will be deposited into a university account for the awardee(s)’ use on/before October 1 of the year of the award.

Excellence in Early Career Research Award

The University of Connecticut College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources Excellence in Early Career Research Award is designed to recognize UConn CAHNR faculty members demonstrating a superior commitment to an emerging research program.

The nominee must meet the following criteria: 

  • All current UConn faculty who have fewer than 5 years of experience in a tenure-track, or non-tenure Research position at UConn (or another tertiary education institution) are eligible for the CAHNR Excellence in Early Career Research Award. Years of service in a post-doctoral or non-academic positions do not count toward eligibility. 
  • Must be engaged in and show evidence of an emerging outstanding and creative research program.

Nomination/Application Process: 

  • Persons interested in being nominated for this award should make their interest known to faculty who can complete the nomination form. 
  • Each department may nominate multiple candidates for the Excellence in Research Award. 
  • Nomination packets and letters of support must be submitted in electronic form using pdf format in one file. Required documents are listed below. The pdf file name format is ResearchExcellence_NomineeName. 
  • The nominator should address any applicable criteria described below. 

Please use the following checklist as a Table of Contents for the Nomination Packet  

  • Nomination Form
  • A non-technical statement from the candidate (3 pages maximum) including 
    • overview of the research program over the past five years 
    • research progress and innovations over the past five years 
    • current and prospective research collaborations 
    • impact of the candidate’s research program on the field 
    • mentorship of graduate students and other laboratory personnel 
    • future research goals and plans 
  • The nominee’s curriculum vitae within a 5-page limit to include: 
    • the names, level, and date graduated (or anticipated) for all graduate students; 
    • type and amount of grants or contracts received in the past 5 years (descending order) 
    • peer reviewed publications in the past 5 years, and 
    • awards for research presented. 

If the candidate is in a non-tenure track position, a letter from the Department Head must be included describing the responsibilities of the faculty member and the percent effort allocated to research activities.  

Selection Criteria:  

Candidates will be evaluated on the basis of demonstrated excellence and lasting impact in the following areas: 

  • Ability to establish and sustain a research program as evidenced by grantsmanship, publications and mentorship of students and postdoctoral fellows 
  • Impact of the candidate’s research program on the field 
  • Creativity or innovation of the research program including novel discoveries, methodology, etc. 
  • Ability to develop research collaborations and partnerships 
  • Evidence of continual interest in the improvement of research program 
  • Evidence of excellence in research focusing on priority issues tied to the College Strategic Vision or the input of stakeholders 
  • Evidence of meaningful impact on a community, our state, region or beyond 
  • Evidence of going above and beyond the expected duties of the position. 

Selection Process: 

The CAHNR Excellence Committee will review all nominee materials and select an award candidate based on evaluations of the selection criteria, as outlined above. Members of the Excellence Committee who nominate a candidate for an award or write a letter of recommendation will not be assigned to evaluate that nomination category during preliminary screening. The nominating member may not participate in discussions during the all-committee meeting and will refrain from voting for that award. 

Awardee will be notified and recognized at the Spring Honors and Awards Excellence ceremony. Award Funds will be deposited into a university account for the awardee’s use on/before October 1 of the year of the award. 

CAHNR Excellence in Engagement Award

The University of Connecticut College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources request nominations for the CAHNR Excellence in Engagement Award. This award is designed to recognize UConn CAHNR faculty and/or staff, demonstrating a superior commitment to an on-going outreach/engagement program.

Nomination Requirements:

  1. Must be a UConn faculty member with no formal extension appointment;
  2. Must be a faculty  member who is actively involved in outreach/engagement efforts that complement their teaching and/or research programs.

Nomination/Application Process:

  • Persons interested in being nominated for this award should make their interest known to faculty or staff who can write letters of nomination and support.
  • Each department may nominate multiple candidates for the Excellence in Engagement Award.
  • Previous awardees may be nominated again after 5 years.
  • Nomination packets and letters of support must be submitted in the order listed below as an electronic form as a single pdf titled “ExcellenceEngagementOutreach_NomineeName”.

Please use the following checklist as a Table of Contents in the Nomination Packet

  1. Nomination Form
  2. No more than two (2) additional letters in support (may be a team nomination) from persons with an intimate knowledge of the nominee’s outreach/engagement program.
    1. These letters must describe how the nominee has engaged in outreach beyond their normal duties or job responsibilities. 
  3. A non-technical statement from the candidate (3 pages maximum) including
    1. overview of the engagement/outreach program over the past five years;
    2. philosophy and vision regarding engagement;
    3. application of engagement philosophy; and
    4. program innovations over the past five years;
    5. Optional, but recommended: a succinct portfolio of engagement program materials, impacts, and evaluation documents or preferably a one-page document with brief descriptions and hyperlinks to the supporting exemplars (a link to a program website is not sufficient).
  4. The nominee’s curriculum vitae within a 5-page limit to include grants, publications, and service to the department, college, university, and beyond over the past 5 years; and any prior awards for outreach/engagement.
  5. A letter from the Department Head describing the responsibilities of the faculty member and the effort allocated to teaching, research and service.  

Selection Criteria:

Candidates will be evaluated on the basis of demonstrated excellence and lasting impact in the following areas:

  • The ability to motivate and stimulate participants through outreach or engagement activities;
  • Creativity or innovation regarding outreach/engagement methods or techniques for disseminating information;
  • Outstanding contributions in developing collaborations and partnerships that lead to measurable outcomes;
  • Meaningful impact on a community, our state, region, or beyond; or
  • Going above and beyond the expected duties of the position for outreach/engagement.

Selection Process:

The CAHNR Excellence Committee will review all nominee materials and select an award candidate based on evaluations of the selection criteria, as outlined above. Members of the Excellence Committee who nominate a candidate for an award or write a letter of recommendation will not be assigned to evaluate that nomination category during preliminary screening. The nominating member may not participate in discussions during the all-committee meeting and will refrain from voting for that award.

Awardee(s) will be notified and recognized at the Spring Honors and Awards Excellence ceremony. Award Funds will be deposited into a university account for the awardee(s)’ use on/before October 1 of the year of the award.ount for the awardee(s)’ use on/before October 1 of the year of the award.

CAHNR Excellence in Extension Award

The University of Connecticut College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources request nominations for the CAHNR Excellence in Extension Award. This award is designed to recognize UConn CAHNR faculty members who have demonstrated superior accomplishments in support of UConn Extension

Nomination Requirements:

  1. Must be a UConn faculty member in the Department of Extension or a formal Extension appointment in another CAHNR department; 
  2. Must have at least five years of Extension experience at UConn.
  3. Nominations must be submitted by the established deadline.

Nomination/Application Process:

  1. Interested individuals may be nominated by a current CAHNR colleague or may complete a self-nomination. 
  2. Application packets must include the documents listed in the Table of Contents in the Nomination Packet, as described in the following section, and must be submitted as an electronic document in a single PDF entitled Extension Excellence_NomineeName. 
  3. Each department may nominate multiple candidates for the Excellence in Extension award. 
  4. Previous awardees may be nominated again after 5 years. 

Selection Criteria:

Selection will be based on documentation of superior accomplishments in the criteria listed in the following Table of Contents. 

  • A brief signed statement from the applicant’s Department Head indicating approval of the application. 
  • Impactful Extension programs. Describe major program efforts and evidence of measurable outcomes leading to positive social, economic, and/or environmental impacts over time for the target audience served. (Limit: 1 single spaced page) 
  • Public dissemination of work. Describe significant efforts to make knowledge accessible to the public through written or oral communication (e.g., blogs, websites, podcasts, newspaper columns, periodicals, fact sheets, YouTube videos). (Limit ½ single spaced page) 
  • Scholarly dissemination of work. Summarize peer-reviewed journal articles, conference papers, conference posters, and any other scholarly work that contributes to elevating Extension as a profession. (Limit ½ single spaced page) 
  • Selected accomplishments. List previous recognition relevant to Extension. (Limit: ½ single spaced page) 
  • Leadership, service, and engagement in Extension professional associations, other national or international organizations, and the Extension profession, broadly defined. (Limit: ½ single spaced page) 
  • No more than two (2) letters of support, one of which must be from a current or past participant in an Extension program led by the applicant. (Limit: 2 single spaced pages per letter) 

Selection Process:

The CAHNR Excellence Committee will review all nominee materials and select an award candidate based on evaluations of the selection criteria, as outlined above. Members of the Excellence Committee who nominate a candidate for an award or write a letter of recommendation will not be assigned to evaluate that nomination category during preliminary screening. The nominating member may not participate in discussions during the all-committee meeting and will refrain from voting for that award.

Awardee(s) will be notified and recognized at the Spring Honors and Awards Excellence ceremony. Award Funds will be deposited into a university account for the awardee(s)’ use on/before October 1 of the year of the award.

Kinsman CAHNR Excellence in Teaching Award

The University of Connecticut College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources Kinsman CAHNR Excellence in Teaching Award is designed to recognize superior teaching by early-career UConn CAHNR faculty members.

Nomination Requirements

All current UConn faculty who hold a teaching appointment in CAHNR and have fewer than 5 years of teaching experience in a tenure-track, adjunct, in-residence, or instructor position at any tertiary education institution are eligible for the Kinsman CAHNR Excellence in Teaching Award. Years of service in research and/or extension positions that did not include a teaching component do not count toward eligibility. Years of service in a post-doctoral position that included teaching responsibilities, but were not the primary job duty, do not count toward eligibility.

Each department may nominate at most two candidates for the Kinsman CAHNR Excellence in Teaching Award.

Nomination/Application Process

Persons interested in being nominated for this award should make their interest known to faculty who can write letters of nomination and support.

Nomination packets and letters of support must be submitted in the order listed below as an electronic form as a single pdf titled “KinsmanTeaching_NomineeName”.

Please use the following checklist as a Table of Contents in the Nomination Packet

  • Nomination Form
  • A completed nomination form from a current employee of UConn. This includes any member of the faculty, staff, or administration. A single nomination form signed by multiple individuals (a team nomination) is also permissible. The nomination form must clearly state the category of nomination (Kinsman CAHNR Excellence in Teaching Award) and the discipline of the nominee’s teaching program. It is recommended that nomination form are dated in the academic year for which the nominee is being considered.
  • At least three letters of support from current or former students that address the nomination form questions.  Additional letters of support addressing the selection criteria are optional, but strongly encouraged. Student letters of support must be dated within two academic years of the one for which the nominee is being considered, e.g., letters of support for the 2020-2021 Kinsman CAHNR Excellence in Teaching Award must be dated no later than August 2018.
  • A non-technical statement from the nominee (3- pages maximum) that provides an overview of their teaching program, describes their teaching philosophy, and addresses the selection criteria listed below.
  • A curriculum vitae that includes current appointment at UConn, educational and employment history, and the following information for the preceding five years: courses taught; graduate students supervised (with post-degree placement, if available); peer-reviewed publications; sources and amount of extramural funding; service to the department, college, university, and community; and awards or distinctions earned. Curriculum vitae must be limited to five pages or fewer.
  • BPIR teaching evaluations in a tabular form for all courses taught only in the preceding four semesters (please do not include the entire teaching evaluation). The nominee is encouraged to refer to these evaluations in their application statement to provide additional context. Student comments should not be included. 
  • Evidence of teaching effectiveness (such as an SET+ or ATE form) 
  • A learning module portfolio for one class/laboratory including class goal, learning objectives, class activities, examination questions and assignments linked to one class to illustrate how the nominee meets the selection criteria of the award and are referenced in the non-technical statement (see above) is optional, but encouraged.  Nominees are encouraged to submit succinct supporting exemplars or to provide a one-page document with brief descriptions and hyperlinks to the supporting exemplars (a link to a nominees website is not sufficient).

Selection Criteria:

Eligible candidates for the Kinsman CAHNR Excellence in Teaching Award will be evaluated on the basis of excellence and lasting impact in teaching. Award applications should therefore address the nominee’s demonstration of the following:

  1. Outstanding contributions to the teaching program offered by the university, college, and department;
  2. Ability to motivate and stimulate student learning through their teaching and advising activities;
  3. Development and use of new course materials, technological innovations, and pedagogical approaches that measurably improve student learning outcomes;
  4. Partnerships with other faculty, staff, and/or professionals that enhance the value of their teaching and/or advising program;
  5. Collaboration with undergraduate and/or graduate students on research projects, including the presentation of results at conferences, publication of peer-reviewed articles, and acquisition of extra-mural funding;
  6. Successful placement of former students in graduate programs, fellowships, and/or professional positions.

Selection and Notification Process

The CAHNR Excellence Committee will review all nominee materials and select an award candidate based on evaluations of the selection criteria, as outlined above. Members of the Excellence Committee who nominate a candidate for an award or write a letter of recommendation will not be assigned to evaluate that nomination category during preliminary screening. The nominating member may not participate in discussions during the all-committee meeting and will refrain from voting for that award.

Awardee(s) will be notified and recognized at the Spring Honors and Awards Excellence ceremony.

Award Funds will be deposited into a university account for the awardee(s)’ use on/before October 1 of the year of the award.ty account for the awardee(s)’ use on/before October 1 of the year of the award.

Cooperative Extension Awards and Guidelines

Epsilon Sigma Phi Fund Extension Awards

Eligibility: Cooperative Extension staff and faculty who meet the criteria established for the awards.

Purpose: To recognize outstanding Cooperative Extension faculty and staff and provide support for programmatic enhancements for the honoree. Honorees shall be selected for the following awards based on the criteria established for each award.

  • The Arland R. Meade Communications Award will recognize an Extension faculty or staff member who has helped improve communications within or for Cooperative Extension.
  • The Doris Lane Award shall be an outstanding Cooperative Extension member who has been employed for at least two years.
  • The Alpha Chi Chapter honoree shall be a Cooperative Extension member who has pursued a program of personal professional improvement.
  • The Mary “Lib” Jacobsen Award will recognize an individual who has pursued coursework or workshops in Nutrition.

Submit: A letter of nomination not to exceed three pages. The letter should designate the specific award that applies.

Selection Process:

The CAHNR Excellence Committee will review all nominee materials and select an award candidate based on evaluations of the selection criteria. Members of the Excellence Committee who nominate a candidate for an award or write a letter of recommendation will not be assigned to evaluate that nomination category during preliminary screening. The nominating member may not participate in discussions during the all-committee meeting and will refrain from voting for that award.

Awardee(s) will be notified and recognized at the Spring Extension All-Hands Meeting in the spring.

Justice, Equity, Anti-Racism and Inclusion Award

Nomination Requirements:   

  1. All current UConn staff, faculty or students in CAHNR. Three awards will be given: student, faculty and staff.
  2. Must be engaged in and show evidence of impactful change in the realms of justice, equity, diversity and inclusion

Nomination/Application Process:   

  • Persons interested in being nominated for this award should make their interest known to those who can write letters of nomination and support.   
  • Nomination packets and letters of support must be submitted in electronic form using pdf format in one file. Required documents are listed below. The pdf file name format is Justice_NomineeName.

Please use the following checklist as a Table of Contents for the Nomination Packet   

  • A letter of nomination dated in the academic year for which the nominee is being considered from a colleague or peer demonstrating how the nominee meets the criteria 
  • No more than two (2) additional letters in support from persons with an intimate knowledge of ways the meets the award criteria
  • A non-technical statement from the candidate (3 pages maximum) including background, philosophy and vision related to antiracism and justice in CAHNR, overview of activities demonstrating a commitment to Justice, Equity, Anti-racism and Inclusion of underserved minorities and minoritized communities within or served by the work and programs of CAHNR.
  • Demonstrable impacts or changes made as a result of the candidate activities

Review process:   CAHNR WGSR will review nominations to make recommendations to Excellence Committee  

Reference Materials (these should be uploaded to a public place as educational resources):

  • For reference please view the Office of Diversity and Inclusion Presentation “Move Toward Being an Antiracist and Justice Oriented University” 
  • View the mission, values, and areas of focus of the Working Group on Structural Racism 

Selection Criteria:    

Candidates will be evaluated on the basis of demonstrated impact in one or more of the following areas:   

  • Evidence of innovation in developing research collaborations and partnerships that promotes JEDI; 
  • Evidence of excellence in research focusing on priority issues tied to the College Academic Plan or the input of stakeholders; 
  • Evidence of increasing activity and development of an emerging research program; 
  • Creativity or innovation pertaining to research methods; 
  • Evidence of going above and beyond the expected duties of the position. 
  • Identifying barriers to justice, inclusion and equity in policies of practice
  • Creating a welcoming environment within the College
  • Furthering efforts to discuss, understand and address elements of structural racism and exclusion from participating in CAHNR teaching, outreach and research
  • Promoting justice, equity and inclusion in our Communities
  • Advance the mission, values and work of the SGSR

Selection Process:   

The CAHNR Excellence Committee will review all nominee materials and select an award candidate based on evaluations of the selection criteria and recommendations of WGSR.  Members of the Excellence Committee who nominate a candidate for an award or write a letter of recommendation will not be assigned to evaluate that nomination category during preliminary screening.  The nominating member may not participate in discussions during the all-committee meeting and will refrain from voting for that award.    

Awardee(s) will be notified and recognized at the CAHNR Honors and Awards ceremony.  Award Funds will be deposited into a university account for the awardee(s)’ use on/before October 1 of the year of the award.  

CAHNR Graduate Student Research and Creativity Award

(M.S. and Ph.D. Categories)

The University of Connecticut College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources Graduate Student Research and Creativity Award is designed to recognize the superior scholarship of UConn CAHNR graduate students. Candidates will be evaluated on the basis of demonstrated excellence and lasting impact in the following areas:

  • Outstanding contributions to research/creative activity
  • Future promise as a researcher
  • Originality; imagination
  • Satisfactory progress toward a degree
  • Research mentoring to peers and/or undergraduates

Nomination Requirements:

  1. Must be a current UConn M.S. or Ph.D. degree-seeking graduate student or professional student in good academic standing at time of nomination;
  2. Must show evidence of outstanding scholarly/creative productivity as a graduate student or professional student;
  3. Must show evidence of national visibility in research/creative activity (e.g., publications, presentations, juried exhibits of performance). Visibility could also include evidence of recognition and honors in endeavors related to the research and/or creative activities.
  4. Each department may nominate only ONE M.S. and only ONE Ph.D. candidate for the Graduate Student Research and Creativity Award. Therefore, departments that have multiple nominations must select a single nominee to forward to the CAHNR Excellence Committee.

Nomination/Application Process:

Students interested in applying for this award should make their interest known to faculty who can write letters of nomination and support. Additionally, faculty are asked to identify and encourage students to prepare application materials that will be submitted.

Students may not self-nominate.

Nomination packets and letters of support must be submitted in the order listed below as an electronic form as a single pdf titled “GradStudentResearchCreativity_NomineeName”.

Please use the following checklist as a Table of Contents in the Nomination Packet

The nomination should be completed by a single nominator, which could be either an individual or a group of faculty. Nomination form, a Curriculum vitae, and the student application letter are the only materials that will be reviewed.

  1. Nomination Form. It is recommended that nomination forms are dated in the academic year for which the nominee is being considered.
  2. A clear, complete, and non-technical description (one page written by the nominee) of the program of research or creative activities accomplished as a graduate/professional student at UConn.
  3. The nominee’s 5-page limit curriculum vitae including grants, awards, publications, performances, exhibitions (e.g. dates, locations, page numbers, co-authorship, publication status). Indicate with an asterisk (or by some other means) those publications, exhibitions or presentations that were selected through a formal independent referee or competitive process.

Selection Process

The CAHNR Excellence Committee will review all nominee materials and select an award candidate based on evaluations of the selection criteria, as outlined above. Members of the Excellence Committee who nominate a candidate for an award or write a letter of recommendation will not be assigned to evaluate that nomination category during preliminary screening. The nominating member may not participate in discussions during the all-committee meeting and will refrain from voting for that award.

Awardee(s) will be recognized at the Spring Honors and Awards Excellence ceremony.

CAHNR Graduate Student Teaching Award

The University of Connecticut College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources Graduate Student Teaching Assistant Award is designed to recognize the superior teaching ability of UConn CAHNR graduate students.

Nomination Requirements

Current graduate students with assigned teaching responsibilities at time of nomination will be evaluated on the basis of demonstrated teaching excellence and lasting impact in the following areas:

  • Successful classroom performance
  • Enthusiasm and commitment
  • Satisfactory progress toward a degree
  • Mentoring to peers and/or undergraduates

Nomination/Application Process

Students may not self-nominate.

A department may nominate ONE graduate student for the CAHNR Graduate Teaching Assistant Award.

Nomination packets and letters of support must be submitted in the order listed below as an electronic form as a single pdf titled “GradStudentTeaching_NomineeName”.

Please use the following checklist as a Table of Contents in the Nomination Packet

  1. Nomination Form.  It is recommended that nomination form is dated in the academic year for which the nominee is being considered.
  2. Minimum of two letters of evaluation required – one from a faculty member and one from a student in the class (three maximum).  A third letter from a faculty member or peer teacher such as a senior graduate student may be submitted.  
  3. Candidate’s resume or curriculum vitae within a 5-page limit.

Selection Process

The CAHNR Excellence Committee will review all nominee materials and select an award candidate based on evaluations of the selection criteria, as outlined above. Members of the Excellence Committee who nominate a candidate for an award or write a letter of recommendation will not be assigned to evaluate that nomination category during preliminary screening. The nominating member may not participate in discussions during the all-committee meeting and will refrain from voting for that award.
Awardee(s) will be recognized at the Spring Honors and Awards Excellence ceremony.

CAHNR Excellence in Teaching Award

The University of Connecticut College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources  request nominations for the  Excellence in Teaching Award. This award is designed to recognize superior teaching by UConn CAHNR faculty members.

Nomination Requirements

  1. Must be a UConn faculty member with at least 5 years of teaching experience in a tenure-track, adjunct, clinical, in-residence, lecturer, or instructor position.
  2. Must show evidence of outstanding teaching and advising contributions to the university, college, and department.

Nomination/Application Process

  1. Persons interested in being nominated for this award should make their interest known to faculty or staff who can complete the nomination form.
  2. Application packets must include the following documents in the order listed below and be submitted as an electronic document in a single pdf titled ExcellenceInTeaching_NomineeName.
  3. Each department may nominate multiple candidates for the  Excellence in Teaching Award
  4. Previous awardees may be nominated again after 5 years

Please use the following checklist as a Table of Contents in the Nomination Packet

  1. Nomination Form
  2. A completed nomination form from a current employee of UConn. This includes any member of the faculty, staff, or administration. A single nomination form signed by multiple individuals (a team nomination) is also permissible. The nomination form must clearly state the category of nomination (UCAHNRA Excellence in Teaching Award) and the discipline of the nominee’s teaching program. It is recommended that nomination forms are dated in the academic year for which the nominee is being considered. 
  3. Three letters of support from current or former students that address the nomination form questions. Student letters of support must be dated within two academic years of the one for which the nominee is being considered.
  4. A non-technical statement from the nominee (three pages maximum) that provides an overview of their teaching program, describes their teaching philosophy and vision regarding teaching, program innovations, impact and/or evaluation and addresses the selection criteria.
  5. A curriculum vitae of no more than 5 pages.
  6. Teaching evaluations in a tabular form for all courses taught only in the preceding four semesters (please do not include the entire teaching evaluation). The nominee is encouraged to refer to these evaluations in their application statement to provide additional context. Student comments should not be included. 
  7. Evidence of teaching effectiveness (such as an SET+ or ATE form) 
  8. A learning module portfolio for one class/laboratory including class goal, learning objectives, class activities, examination questions and assignments linked to one class to illustrate how the nominee meets the selection criteria of the award and are referenced in the non-technical statement (see above) is optional, but encouraged.  Nominees are encouraged to submit succinct supporting exemplars or to provide a one-page document with brief descriptions and hyperlinks to the supporting exemplars (a link to a nominee’s website is not sufficient).

Selection Criteria

Eligible candidates for the Excellence in Teaching Award will be evaluated on the basis of excellence and lasting impact in teaching. Award applications should therefore address the nominee’s demonstration of the following:

  1. Ability to motivate and stimulate student learning through their teaching and advising activities;
  2. Development and use of new course materials, technological innovations, and pedagogical approaches that measurably improve student learning outcomes;
  3. Focus on priority issues tied to the University, College or Department strategic initiatives, Academic Plans or the input of stakeholders;
  4. Partnerships with other faculty, staff, and/or professionals that enhance the value of their teaching and/or advising program.
  5. Demonstrated pursuit of professional development for the continued improvement of teaching and student learning.

Selection and Notification Process

The CAHNR Excellence Committee will review all nominee materials and select an award candidate based on evaluations of the selection criteria, as outlined above. Members of the Excellence Committee who nominate a candidate for an award or write a letter of recommendation will not be assigned to evaluate that nomination category during preliminary screening. The nominating member may not participate in discussions during the all-committee meeting and will refrain from voting for that award.

Awardee(s) will be notified and recognized at the Spring Honors and Awards Excellence ceremony. Award Funds for use by the Awardee are disbursed on or before Oct 1 through the Dean’s Office.

CES Grant for Innovative Programming in Extension

Purpose: provide seed funding to promote and encourage innovative approaches to outreach and engagement related to the Cooperative Extension mission of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. Yearly grants of $5000 are anticipated. This initiative is supported by the Nancy H. and David E. Bull CES Innovative Programming Fund.

The goal of innovation is a positive change to make someone or something better. A distinction is made between invention – an idea made manifest, and innovation – ideas applied successfully. Innovation in Extension refers to creative new approaches that change how people do things. Innovation often involves taking risks — the outcomes are unknown and unpredictable. However, our knowledge of how to do successful programming is also increased by failures. Therefore, it is hoped that this fund will provide the financial impetus to enact change.

Eligibility: the competition is open to all with a full or partial Extension appointment. Team submissions including non-extension personnel will be considered as long as the team leader holds an Extension appointment.

Submissions (not to exceed 3 double-spaced pages) will include the following:

  1. Statement of the project goal. Clearly articulate the problem that is being addressed by the project and delineate the goal of the project.
  2. Proposed programming. Describe the programming you will undertake to achieve the project goal.
  3. Explicitly identify the innovation proposed and the risks involved. Describe how trying this approach will have the potential to influence future program delivery.
  4. Briefly describe a project timeline. Typical projects should be completed within 24 months.
  5. Measurable outcomes. How will you assess and document the anticipated change as a result of your innovation?
  6. Travel to conferences will not be supported by this fund. Expenses should involve creating and implementing the innovation.
  7. Extended Application. Assuming the programming effort is successful, to whom and how will you extend the new approach to enhance the program being improved over the long term.

Evaluation criteria

The proposal showing the greatest possible potential for positive change related to the Extension mission will be selected for funding.

Deliverable

Upon completion of the project, awardees will prepare a report that describes the innovative programming. This will be showcased on the College website and will serve as a way of engaging others in employing the innovative approach.

Selection Process:

The CAHNR Excellence Committee will review all nominee materials and select a project based on evaluations of the selection criteria. Members of the Excellence Committee who nominate a project for an award or write a letter of recommendation will not be assigned to evaluate that nomination category during preliminary screening. The nominating member may not participate in discussions during the all-committee meeting and will refrain from voting for that award.

Awardee(s) will be notified and recognized at the CAHNR Awards and Honors Event in the spring.

CAHNR Outstanding Staff Award

The University of Connecticut, College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources requests nominations to recognize exceptional staff or teams, who provide exceptional support to faculty, students, or other staff within the College or CAHNR Community.

Nomination Requirements

  1. The individual staff member or collective team provides exceptional support and assistance to faculty, students or other staff in the College or CAHNR Community
  2. The nominee(s) must work well with students, faculty, co-workers, stakeholders or the public
  3. The nominee(s) must strive for professional improvement

Nomination/Application Process

  1. Persons interested in being nominated for this award should make their interest known to faculty or staff who can write letters of nomination and support
  2. Nomination packets and letters of support must be submitted in the order listed below as an electronic form as a single pdf titled CAHNR Outstanding Staff _Nominee Name
  3. Each unit may nominate multiple candidates; separate nomination packets must be submitted for each individual or team.
  4. Previous awardees may be nominated again after 5 years

The nominator should complete their nomination letter and include it in the PDF submission, along with the required letters of support.

Required Documents for the Nomination packet:

  1. A letter of nomination from the Dean, Department Head, or Direct Supervisor to include the name of the award and specific examples of how the nominee meets the selection criteria. It is recommended that nomination letters are dated in the academic year for which the nominee is being considered.
  2. No more than two (2) additional support letters (at least one should be external to the candidate(s) work unit/department) that address how the candidate(s) meet the selection criteria for this award.

Selection Criteria:

CAHNR Excellence Committee members will review the nomination packet. Eligible candidates will be evaluated based on demonstrated excellence and lasting impact in the following areas:

  1. Initiative-what roles or responsibilities has the staff member(s) taken to contribute to the department’s mission and overall welfare? 
  2. Demonstrated a willingness to take on new or additional tasks; pitched in when needed
  3. Work ethic and dedication to Work Unit/Department and College; exhibiting strong work qualities such as dependability, patience, and commitment
  4. Demonstrated pursuit of professional improvement of skills associated with the position. This could include formal or informal training or workshops.

Selection and Notification Process

The CAHNR Excellence Committee will review all nominee materials and select an award candidate based on evaluations of the selection criteria, as outlined above. Members of the Excellence Committee who nominate a candidate for an award or write a letter of recommendation will not be assigned to evaluate that nomination category during preliminary screening. The nominating member may not participate in discussions during the all-committee meeting and will refrain from voting for that award.

Awardee(s) will be notified and recognized at the Spring Honors and Awards Excellence ceremony. Award Funds for use by the Awardee are disbursed on or before Oct 1 through the Dean’s Office.

CAHNR Staff Community Innovator Award

Purpose

To recognize an individual staff member within the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources (CAHNR) who has made significant contributions through innovative initiatives, fostered a spirit of teamwork, and engaged actively with the CAHNR community.

Nomination Requirements

  1. Demonstrated innovative contributions that have led to improvements in processes, programs, or the overall environment within the CAHNR community.
  2. Exemplary teamwork and collaboration with faculty, students, staff, and/or external community members.
  3. Active involvement in CAHNR activities
  4. Commitment to inclusivity and diversity, promoting a welcoming and supportive atmosphere for all members of the College and CAHNR community.

Nomination/Application Process

  1. Supervisor or Peer nominations are accepted.
  2. Nomination packets and up to 2 letters of support (one should be external to the candidate’s work unit/department) must be submitted as a single PDF titled “StaffInnovatorAward_NomineeName”.
    1. A letter of recommendation from the nominating party is required. It is recommended that nomination letters are dated in the academic year for which the nominee is being considered.
    2. Up to 2 additional letters of support may be included in the submission packet.
  3. Each department may nominate multiple candidates; separate nomination packets must be submitted for each individual.
  4. Previous awardees may be nominated again after five years.
  5. The nominator should complete the nomination letter and include it in the PDF submission, along with the required letters of support.

Required Documents for the Nomination Packet

  1. Nomination Letter: Completed by the nominator, highlighting the nominee’s innovative contributions, teamwork, and CAHNR community involvement. The letter should include specific examples and be dated within the current academic year.
  2. No more than 2 letters of support (one should be external to the candidate’s work unit/department) from colleagues, students, or CAHNR community members addressing the selection criteria.
  3. Optional: Supporting documents such as project reports, CAHNR community engagement records, or any evidence of the nominee’s impact and contributions.

Selection Criteria

CAHNR Excellence Committee members will review the nomination packet. Eligible candidates  will be evaluated based on demonstrated excellence and lasting impact in the following areas

  • Innovative Contributions: Evidence of creative solutions and improvements.
  • Team Spirit: Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and foster a positive team environment.
  • CAHNR Community Engagement: Active participation and impact in CAHNR community-related activities and initiatives.
  • Inclusivity and Diversity: Efforts to promote and enhance inclusivity and diversity.

Selection and Notification Process

The CAHNR Excellence Committee will review all nominee materials and select an award candidate based on evaluations of the selection criteria, as outlined above. Members of the Excellence Committee who nominate a candidate for an award or write a letter of recommendation will not be assigned to evaluate that nomination category during the preliminary screening. The nominating member may not participate in discussions during the all-committee meeting and will refrain from voting for that award.

Awardees will be notified and recognized at the Spring Awards and Honors ceremony. Award funds for use by the awardee will be disbursed on or before October 1 through the Dean’s Office.