The Outstanding Faculty Member of the Year Award is among the University's highest faculty honors, recognizing an educator whose sustained commitment to teaching, mentorship, and student success exemplifies the very best of American Military University (AMU).
Selected from the recipients of the Excellence in Teaching Award, this award honors a faculty member whose instructional excellence, innovation, and lasting impact on students distinguish them as an exceptional representative of the University's commitment to academic excellence.
One recipient is selected annually from across all academic schools to receive this distinguished honor.
The Outstanding Faculty Member of the Year Award may be presented annually. However, if no candidate sufficiently meets the established criteria, the award may not be presented.
Faculty members do not apply directly for the Outstanding Faculty Member of the Year Award.
Each year, recipients of the Excellence in Teaching Award automatically become candidates for this distinction. This includes:
- One recipient for undergraduate teaching from each academic school.
- One recipient for graduate teaching from each academic school.
These recipients represent the University's highest-performing educators and are automatically advanced for consideration.
Recipients of the Excellence in Teaching Award are reviewed by the Academic Awards Committee using established evaluation criteria.
The committee considers:
- Sustained excellence in teaching and instructional effectiveness.
- Exceptional impact on student learning and success.
- Innovation in teaching and curriculum development.
- Mentorship and support of students and colleagues.
- Contributions to academic excellence across the University.
- Alignment with the mission and values of AMU.
Following the Academic Awards Committee's review, one Outstanding Faculty Member of the Year is recommended to the University Provost for final approval.
- Applications Open: September 1, 2026
- Application Deadline: February 1, 2027
- Committee Review: February–March 2027
- Recipient Notified by: April 1, 2027
- Recognition: Commencement Weekend 2027
Recipients receive:
- Recognition during Commencement weekend.
- A crystal trophy.
- Travel and hotel accommodations in accordance with University award guidelines.
- Recognition in University communications.
Attendance at Commencement is encouraged but not required.
Questions regarding eligibility or the application process may be directed to the University Awards Committee at universityawards@apus.edu.