Dr. Andrew Jorgensen Outstanding Teaching Assistant Award
University of Minnesota
Key Statistics
Grant Amount
Varies by year
Location
Deadline
Varies by year
About this Scholarship
The Dr. Andrew Jorgensen Outstanding Teaching Assistant Award is a merit-based scholarship established to recognize exceptional teaching assistants within the University of Minnesota community. This award honors the legacy of Dr. Andrew Jorgensen, a respected educator known for his commitment to excellence in teaching and mentorship. The scholarship aims to acknowledge graduate students who demonstrate outstanding performance in their teaching assistant roles, including effective communication, dedication to student learning, and contribution to the academic environment. Recipients of this award are selected based on their teaching evaluations, peer and faculty recommendations, and their overall impact on the educational experience of undergraduate students. The award serves both as a form of recognition and as financial support to encourage continued excellence in teaching. It is open primarily to graduate students enrolled in departments where teaching assistantships are integral to academic programs, particularly in the fields of education, humanities, and social sciences. The exact amount and number of awards vary annually, depending on available funding and institutional priorities. Applicants are typically required to submit a teaching portfolio, letters of recommendation, and a statement reflecting their teaching philosophy and contributions. This award reflects the University of Minnesota’s commitment to fostering high-quality teaching and supporting graduate students who contribute significantly to the academic mission.
Eligibility & Overview
Financial Grant
Varies by year
Scholarship Type
Merit based
What's Covered
Description
The Dr. Andrew Jorgensen Outstanding Teaching Assistant Award is designed to recognize and reward graduate students who have demonstrated exemplary teaching skills and a strong commitment to enhancing the learning experience of undergraduate students. Teaching assistants play a vital role in the academic success of many courses, often leading discussion sections, grading assignments, and providing one-on-one support to students. This award highlights those who go beyond these basic responsibilities by showing innovation in teaching methods, effective communication, and a dedication to student engagement and success. The selection process typically involves a comprehensive review of the applicant’s teaching evaluations, letters of support from faculty and peers, and a reflective statement on their teaching philosophy and practices. The award not only provides financial assistance but also serves as a formal recognition that can be valuable for future academic or professional pursuits. It is important to note that the grant amount and number of recipients can vary each year based on the university’s budget and priorities. Applicants are encouraged to consult the University of Minnesota’s graduate school or relevant departmental offices for the most current information. The award aligns with the university’s broader mission to promote excellence in teaching and learning, supporting graduate students who contribute significantly to this goal. By acknowledging outstanding teaching assistants, the university fosters a culture of quality education and professional development among its graduate student community.
Key Benefits
Provides financial support to graduate students excelling in teaching roles
Enhances the recipient's academic and professional profile through formal recognition
Encourages continued commitment to high-quality teaching and mentorship
Supports the university’s mission to improve undergraduate education through effective teaching assistance
Financing Information
Funding and Award Mechanics of the Dr. Andrew Jorgensen Outstanding Teaching Assistant Award
The financial support provided by the Dr. Andrew Jorgensen Outstanding Teaching Assistant Award is typically sourced from university funds allocated for graduate student development and teaching excellence. The amount awarded varies annually depending on available resources and the number of qualified applicants. This variability means that the grant amount is not fixed and may differ from year to year. The award is generally disbursed as a lump sum or as a stipend credited to the recipient’s student account, which can be applied toward tuition, fees, or living expenses. Recipients are selected through a competitive process that involves evaluation by a committee composed of faculty members and administrative staff familiar with teaching assistant roles and standards. The committee assesses applications based on teaching effectiveness, contributions to student learning, and professional conduct. Since the award is merit-based, financial need is not a primary consideration. Applicants should be aware that receiving this award does not guarantee continued funding in subsequent years and that they must maintain high teaching standards to be considered for future awards. Additionally, the award may be combined with other scholarships or assistantships, but students should verify any restrictions with the university’s financial aid office. Overall, the award functions as both a financial incentive and a formal acknowledgment of teaching excellence within the graduate student community.
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* Disclaimer: Information provided here is subject to change. Applicants should verify all details, including eligibility criteria, deadlines, and award amounts, directly with the University of Minnesota or the official scholarship awarding body before applying.