Elizabeth Stone, PhD, and Danielle Conklin, PhD, were recognized by the Fairfield University chapter of Alpha Sigma Nu, the Jesuit honor society, with 2025 undergraduate and graduate Teacher of the Year awards, respectively. Two adjunct faculty members, Patrick Kennedy and Mary Kelly '02, MBA'25, were honored with 2025 Excellence in Teaching awards.
The Fairfield University chapter of Alpha Sigma Nu held its annual Teacher of the Year recognition ceremony on Wednesday, May 14. The celebration was an opportunity to recognize one undergraduate and one graduate professor for their dedication to the field, support to students, and lasting impact beyond the classroom.
Faculty nominations are made by students only and are based on scholarship, loyalty, and service — the three pillars of the Alpha Sigma Nu Jesuit Honor Society.
Undergraduate Alpha Sigma Nu Teacher of the Year Elizabeth Stone, PhD, is an assistant professor of chemistry and biochemistry. “This is truly a testament to the students and faculty who have given me invaluable feedback and support throughout the year,” said Dr. Stone. “To me, the Alpha Sigma Nu Undergraduate Teacher of the Year Award feels like the highest honor for teaching effectiveness, as it comes from the students, and it is the award that I am the proudest to have received.”
Graduate Alpha Sigma Nu Teacher of the Year Danielle Conklin, PhD, assistant professor of nursing, shared a similar sentiment. “Receiving the Alpha Sigma Nu Graduate Teacher of the Year Award is truly one of the greatest honors I have received,” Dr. Conklin said, “because it is from my students. It is a true testament to the power of experiential learning.”
The Excellence in Teaching awards for adjunct faculty were also celebrated at the May 14 celebration. Mary Kelly '02, MBA'25, adjunct professor of advertising in the Dolan School of Business was awarded the Undergraduate Excellence in Teaching Award. Patrick Kennedy, adjunct professor of interior design in the College of Arts and Sciences was awarded the Graduate Excellence in Teaching Award.
Congratulations to the Alpha Sigma Nu faculty awardees and the Excellence in Teaching adjunct faculty awardees.
