Education Professor Named Finalist For National Teaching Award

Dr. Claire Katz is a finalist for the prestigious 2024 Robert Foster Cherry Award for Great Teaching. The award, presented every two years by Baylor University, is given to an individual recognized for exceptional teaching. Katz is among three professors nationwide selected as a finalist.

Katz has served at Texas A&M since 2006 and is currently a professor and interim department in School of Education & Human Development’s Department of Teaching, Learning and Culture. Overall, her career as an educator spans nearly four decades. Katz’s teaching and research focus on the intersection of philosophy, gender, education and religion, as well as K-12 philosophy, which includes successfully developing a philosophy summer camp for teens.

“I am humbled and honored to receive this recognition, but it is also wonderful for the discipline of philosophy, which is the foundation of university education, to receive this affirmation,” said Katz. “I am so grateful to my nominators, colleagues and students who wrote reference letters and to the School of Education and Human Development who provided invaluable support.”

As a Cherry Award finalist, she will receive $15,000, as well as $10,000 for her department to foster the development of teaching skills. She will also present a series of lectures at Baylor during the fall and a Cherry Award lecture at Texas A&M.

“The Cherry Award is a preeminent symbol of high-impact teaching and scholarship. Dr. Katz exemplifies excellence in teaching and as a leader in our Department of Teaching, Learning and Culture,” said Dr. Michael A. de Miranda, Dean of SEHD. “We are proud and privileged to have Claire in our School and as a finalist for this prestigious honor.”

The Cherry Award winner will receive $250,000, an additional $25,000 for their department and will teach in residence at Baylor University during fall 2024 or spring 2025. Baylor will announce the winner in spring 2024.