GSA honors Caldwell and Chapman for dedication

GSA
honors Caldwell and Chapman for dedication
…………………………………………………………………

Two Rice professors
have been singled out for their commitment to graduate student
education through the Graduate Student Association’s
Faculty Teaching/Mentoring Award.

Carl Caldwell,
associate professor of history and German and Slavic studies,
and Walter Chapman, associate professor in chemical engineering,
are the recipients of the award that encourages and recognizes
outstanding service to graduate student life at Rice. The
award, funded through the Office of the President, includes
a $1,500 prize.

Caldwell is
“someone to whom the very diverse group of students
in the graduate program in history at Rice naturally gravitate,”
said Scott Marler, associate editor of the Journal of Southern
History.

Gerd Appelhans,
a graduate student in the history department, noted that
Caldwell “blends humor, erudition and encouragement
in an environment open enough for free discussion while
guiding the class with discreet nudges.”

Students also
recognized Caldwell as an adviser and mentor. He takes an
interest in graduate students, even those whom he does not
directly advise, making himself available to read students’
articles and offer criticism, engage in open discussion
and give advice as needed.

Caldwell has
worked to make professional training a part of the graduate
student curriculum, and he has spoken to groups of students
about such issues as the job market and interviewing tips.

Chapman also
was praised for his commitment to teaching and mentoring.
“Professor Chapman stands out from a lot of other professors,
due to his excellence in pedagogy as well as his effectiveness
as a mentor for his students,” said Auleen Ghosh, a
graduate student in chemical engineering.

Chapman demonstrates
exceptional knowledge of the subject matter while often
experimenting with new teaching techniques. He strives to
relate what’s being taught in class with other areas
of knowledge and with the real world, said David Ting, another
chemical engineering graduate student.

Chapman maintains
an open-door policy and has offered invaluable input and
support to graduate students. Sharon Sauer, a graduate student
who plans to pursue a career in academia, commented, “By
giving me suggestions on how to improve my method of presentation
and content of lectures and by working together in organizing
the course material and assignments, he has served as a
tremendous mentor.”