Innovation in Teaching Award 

The Provost’s Innovation in Teaching Awards recognize faculty members that have exhibited exceptionally creative, and/or innovative approaches to promote student-centered learning. This award is based on the extent of creativity, and innovation, as well as on evidence of positive impact on student success and the potential for wider adoption. This includes both specific innovations as well as sets of closely connected and/or integrated initiatives implemented at the same time. Noteworthy innovations may have been employed throughout a course, in special/major assignments, or in other learning activities. They may involve the innovative use of learning technologies, tools, and/or pedagogical methods, or be targeted toward novel outcomes. Up to five awardees ($8,000/ea) may be selected.

Nominated innovative faculty teaching will be assessed based on the following criteria (innovations do not need to address all of these criteria):

• This award recognizes innovative teaching practices at the level of individual University of Houston courses, with greater weight given to undergraduate instruction, based on the:
  • Originality and innovativeness of the teaching strategy or how it was implemented.
  • Demonstrated impact on student learning, engagement, and success,
  • Potential to adopt/scale the teaching strategy (or key elements thereof) within or across disciplines, departments, and/or colleges.

Nominees under this category must:

• Be full-time faculty who have been in residence at the University of Houston for at least two academic years prior to the year of nomination.
• Have a mean score of 4.0 or greater over the four University-wide questions in the student evaluations of teaching over all of courses the nominee has taught in the prior two years.
• Not have won a university award in this category in the prior five academic years.

Nominations under this category must include:

• A one-page letter of nomination.
• A one-page statement of innovative teaching philosophy by the nominee.
• The nominee's curriculum vitae.
• A one-page description of the innovative teaching approach, its impact, and its potential to be scaled.
• Samples of the innovative teaching practice are encouraged (e.g., links to videos/materials, documents, prototypes, or other methods of conveying the practice).

Cougar Spirit Faculty Award 

The Cougar Spirit Faculty Award recognizes a faculty member who demonstrates exceptional dedication to student engagement both inside and outside the classroom while embodying strong school spirit. This award honors an educator who actively connects with students, supports their academic and personal growth, champions UH traditions, and strengthens the campus community through visible and enthusiastic Cougar pride. Up to one awardee ($5,000) may be selected. 

Nominated Cougar Spirit faculty teaching and service will be assessed based on the following criteria:

• Student Engagement Inside the Classroom
  Creates interactive, inclusive, and engaging learning experiences that foster student participation, curiosity, and success. Demonstrates care for students’ growth and cultivates a classroom environment where students feel supported, motivated, and valued.
• Student Engagement Outside the Classroom
  Actively supports student growth beyond the classroom through activities such as mentorship, advising, participation in student events, and encouragement of co‑curricular opportunities. Builds meaningful connections and fosters a sense of belonging and confidence in students.
• Strong School Spirit and Community Building
  Demonstrates consistent and visible support for UH traditions and events, promotes Cougar culture, and inspires student pride. Actively contributes to a welcoming campus community and motivates students to engage fully in the UH experience.

Nominees under this category must:

• Be full-time faculty who have been in residence at the University of Houston for at least two academic years prior to the year of nomination.
• Have a mean score of 4.0 or greater over the four University-wide questions in the student evaluations of teaching over all of courses the nominee has taught in the prior two years.
• Not have won a university award in this category in the prior five academic years.

Nominations under this category must include:

• A one-page statement of student engagement philosophy by the nominee
• The nominee's curriculum vitae
• A one-page description of the engagement approach, its impact, and its potential to be scaled
• Samples of the engagement practices are encouraged (e.g., links to videos/materials, documents, prototypes, or other methods of conveying the practice).

Big 12 Faculty of the Year

The Big 12 Faculty of the Year Award is given annually each academic year to one outstanding faculty member per Big 12 institution. The award recognizes outstanding faculty who excel in innovation and research on their campus. Honorees represent and reflect all the best attributes that make a college campus a bastion for learning and growth. The award highlights the incredible work, research breakthroughs, and educational opportunities afforded to students attending Big 12 institutions. Throughout the academic year, the Big 12 Conference will highlight the honorees with spotlights on social media channels.

• The UH Big 12 Faculty of the Year will be awarded to the Farfel winner that year.