Faculty Awards
UNIVERSITY OF RICHMOND — Two University of Richmond professors have received the Harris Family Faculty Award for their excellence in teaching from the Virginia Foundation for Independent Colleges.
Michael Leopold, professor of chemistry, was selected in the Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching category, and L. Andrew Bell, associate director of digital pedagogy and research, was selected in the Excellence in Instructional students to approach complex problems in chemistry with confidence, think critically, and discover capabilities they didn’t know they possessed.
“Dr. Leopold’s students become physicians, researchers, scientists, educators, and leaders,” said Joan Saab, executive vice president and provost. “They leave Richmond believing they can solve difficult problems and contribute meaningfully to the world around them.”
Leopold has taught at UR since 2002 and is frequently recognized for his contributions to his field. He was previously awarded the Outstanding Faculty Award from the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia.
The Excellence in Instructional learning to advance student success. With a focus on data science and artificial intelligence, he has served as a trusted guide for faculty across the university as they navigate ever-changing technology in higher education.
“While Dr. Bell has deep technical expertise, he is a leader who is committed to supporting colleagues where they are, in the same way we seek the support our students,” said Nicole Maurantonio, associate provost for academic affairs.
Bell has worked at UR since 2014 and currently serves in the Faculty Hub, a department that offers comprehensive support for faculty and instructional staff through personalized consultations, workshops, and programs.
