Professors who demonstrate excellence in their teaching, research and mentoring were recognized at the Awards of Distinction ceremony on Monday, surrounded by co-workers, families, friends and students whose lives they have impacted.

"This Awards of Distinction ceremony is our opportunity to recognize excellence and to celebrate the outstanding accomplishments of University of Arizona faculty," said Andrew Comrie, senior vice president for academic affairs and provost, who gave opening remarks at the ceremony. "These awards acknowledge teaching and research excellence at our University."

Six professors were honored with the awards, given by the Office of the Executive Vice President and Provost, the UA Foundation, the Graduate College and the Honors College.

Anders Peterson, an instructor in the Department of Spanish and Portuguese, received the Margaret M. Briehl and Dennis T. Ray Five Star Faculty Award from the Honors College.

The Five Star Faculty Award was established in 1983 and is the only University-wide teaching award bestowed by undergraduates. This year, there were 188 faculty nominations, a record for the award.

Peterson is dedicated to his students and motivated to see them succeed, getting to know them individually to best meet their needs. He encourages students to combine what they learn in the classroom with community involvement. He displays excitement about both teaching and Spanish and uses that to inspire his students.

"Many years ago, I was a full-time undergraduate student who looked up to several outstanding professors, but now the roles have reversed and I am a professor that looks up to several of my undergraduate students," read a quote from Peterson in the awards program. "I strive to be the kind of educator that I would have respected deeply."

To read more about these awards, please click here.