James MacLeod Named Outstanding Teacher
Published: May 10, 2009
The University of Evansville is proud to announce that James MacLeod, professor of history, has been named the University’s Outstanding Teacher for the 2008-09 academic year.
The award, which was announced today during UE’s 151st Commencement, is given each spring by the UE Alumni Association. MacLeod, who has taught at the University since 2001, was chosen after receiving several nominations and high marks from students, many of whom praised his ability to bring history to life in the classroom.
“Dr. MacLeod is one of the best teachers or professors I’ve ever encountered,” one student wrote. “He makes whatever we are discussing relevant and important to our lives; he teaches with humor, thoughtfulness, and morality. “I looked forward to coming to his class every time.”
MacLeod has been a part of the University of Evansville community since 1994, when he joined the faculty at Harlaxton College, UE’s British campus, as an assistant professor of history. He came to the UE campus in August 1999 in the same role, before being promoted to associate professor in May 2001. He since has been promoted to full professor. During his time at UE, MacLeod has been recognized several times for his excellence in the classroom.
In 2002, he received the UE College of Arts & Sciences Dean’s Teaching Award; then, during the 2003-04 academic year, he earned the United Methodist Church’s Exemplary Teacher Award.
“Honestly, it is hard to believe that Dr. MacLeod hasn’t already received this award, so high is his reputation as an outstanding teacher,” said Susan Calovini, UE’s dean of arts and sciences. “And, in addition to being a valuable and inspiring classroom teacher, James is a fine scholar – with numerous publications and presentations to his name – as well as a dedicated professional and colleague at the University. “He is clearly very deserving of this highest teaching honor.”
MacLeod received his MA in history at the University of Edinburgh in 1988, and followed that with his PhD from the same institution. His thesis was in nineteenth century Scottish history, entitled “The Origins of the Free Presbyterian Church of Scotland.” It is because of his ability to translate a passion for that subject, and for the rest of history, that MacLeod’s students hold him in the highest esteem. For that reason, he is the University of Evansville’s 2008-09 Outstanding Teacher.
“Dr. MacLeod has a unique approach unlike any other I have experienced,” another student concluded. “It allows us to better understand the concepts – not just the facts – of history.”
