Antonia Syson Cornerstone Teaching Award

The Antonia Syson Cornerstone Teaching Award honors excellence in teaching and mentorship in Transformative Texts, SCLA 101 and 102 as well as SCLA 200, Cornerstones of Constitutional Law. The award recognizes instruction, guidance, creativity, and concern for students. This award is dedicated to Antonia Syson, who in bringing transformative literature to students, transformed their lives. Antonia was instrumental as a founding Cornerstone faculty fellow to the development and success of Cornerstone. Thanks to her help, Cornerstone has become a model integrated Liberal Arts program, capable of reaching more students across campus and bringing with it, a love of learning and an appreciation of great texts.

Guidelines for the Antonia Syson Cornerstone Teaching Award(.pdf)

Guidelines for the Antonia Syson Cornerstone Teaching Award

1 Recipient | $1,000 award

The Antonia Syson Cornerstone Teaching Award is given to one member of the Cornerstone faculty. Recipients of this awards are chosen by the Cornerstone Steering Committee and the Director based on faculty nominations, student ratings, teaching and mentorship philosophy as well as contributions to the Cornerstone program.

1. Criteria and Eligibility for the Award

   1. Anyone teaching SCLA 101, 102 or 200 during the previous academic year.
   2. Recipients of the award will not be eligible to receive it again for five years.

2. Procedures for Selecting Award Nominees

   1. Instructors can be self-nominated or nominated by a colleague in Cornerstone. Please email Dr. Stephanie Ayala-Chittick (smatosay@purdue.edu) with your nomination.

3. The Nomination Document | The nomination document must include all of the following sections:

   1. Teaching Philosophy.

      1. A 500 word (2-page) narrative description of their teaching philosophy, mentorship, and goals. Nominees should also discuss how their goals and vision align with those of the Cornerstone program as well as how they have sought to contribute to the program.

   2. SCLA Syllabus.

      1. The nominee’s SCLA 101, 102 or 200 syllabus (or syllabi) along with any other teaching materials they think relevant.

4. Student Ratings of Teaching.

   1. Include PICES reports on any SCLA course.

Award Recipients