Faculty Convocation welcomes new faculty members, recognizes faculty excellence
September 17, 2024
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As the 2024-25 academic year begins at Loyola University Chicago, the University welcomes 69 new faculty members across a diverse range of disciplines. On September 13, Loyola’s academic community gathered for Faculty Convocation to celebrate these new additions, recognize outstanding faculty achievements, and set the tone for another year of academic excellence.
A highlight of the event was the presentation of the Faculty Member of the Year award to Reuben Keller, professor in the School of Environmental Sustainability. Jim Devery, president of Faculty Council, recognized Keller’s significant contributions to research and policy, stating, “Dr. Keller’s work informs policies and management to prevent negative ecological and economic outcomes associated with species invasions.”
Keller expressed gratitude for the support and opportunities at Loyola, saying, “Loyola has allowed me freedom to pursue my research interests, it has allowed me to work with excellent students from whom I gain great motivation, and it has given me an exceptional group of colleagues.”
The work of faculty is the lifeblood of our university. At Loyola, teaching, research, and service are deeply rooted in our Jesuit principles and mission.
— Douglas W. Woods, provost and chief academic officer
In addition to celebrating faculty achievements, the convocation also introduced the 69 new faculty members joining the University this year. Loyola’s newest faculty members bring expertise from various disciplines across the University, spanning the sciences, humanities, arts, health sciences, and business, enriching the academic community with their varied backgrounds and knowledge.
Markeda Newell, vice provost for Faculty Affairs, welcomed attendees and recognized faculty achievements in the last year, including faculty who were granted tenure and/or promoted to the rank of associate professor or professor, those who were promoted within their schools, and the 43 exceptional scholars who hold endowed chairs and professorships.
Douglas W. Woods, provost and chief academic officer, presented two prestigious awards: the St. Ignatius of Loyola Award for Teaching Excellence to Ping Jing, associate professor in the School of Environmental Sustainability, for her exceptional contributions to teaching and student engagement; and the Pedro Arrupe S.J. Faculty Award for Diversity Leadership to Eilene Edejer, clinical associate professor in the School of Education, in recognition of her efforts to promote diversity and inclusion.
Provost Woods extended a welcome to Loyola’s newest deans, who bring a wealth of experience to their respective schools: Fr. Martin Connell of Arrupe College, Virginia McDermott of the School of Communication, David McIntosh of the School of Education, and Patricia Findley of the School of Social Work.
“The work of faculty is the lifeblood of our university. At Loyola, teaching, research, and service are deeply rooted in our Jesuit principles and mission,” stated Provost Woods in his remarks. “All universities aspire to academic excellence, but at Loyola University Chicago, we strive for excellence that expresses itself in service to humanity.”
For the full list of Provost and University awards, please visit the Faculty Convocation website.
