Through his scholarly expertise and commitment to student learning, Dr. John Wallace, professor of biology at Millersville University, has been a role model to his students and his fellow faculty since he came to Millersville in 1998. For his dedication to the University, Wallace has been selected to receive the second annual Educator of the Year Award. He will be honored at the undergraduate commencement ceremony on May 12, 2012.

“Dr. Wallace was an outstanding nominee for this award,” said Dr. Laurie Hanich, educator of the year award committee chair. “Dr. Wallace’s commitment to student learning is demonstrated by his constant supervision and collaborative efforts with students on research projects, many resulting in presentations and peer-reviewed publications.”

As a medical and aquatic entomologist, Wallace teaches a variety of courses at Millersville, such as entomology, aquatic biology, ecology and evolution and forensic entomology. He works closely with his students in laboratory settings, studying a wide range of topics and generating important scientific data, which many of his students present at international, national, regional and local scientific conferences. Wallace also advises students on co-ops and internships, as well as serves as the faculty advisor for the Entomology Club at Millersville University.

“Being selected as Educator of the Year is humbling because I know of so many faculty doing amazing things across all disciplines here at Millersville University,” said Wallace. “I believe that we do not sign up for these positions for such accolades; however, these awards validate that we are on the right path in terms of both our own raison d’etre as professors but also in terms of producing well-rounded, critically thinking Millersville University graduates as productive citizens in society.”

His work and passion go beyond Millersville University as well. “My research and service life takes me to all parts of the world on projects such as one that deals with a neglected tropical disease, Buruli Ulcer,” said Wallace. In addition, Wallace is one of 15 Board Certified Forensic Entomologists in North America, a Diplomate with the American Board of Forensic Entomologists and a Fellow in the American Academy of Forensic Science.

The Educator of the Year Award recipient must exhibit the following criteria: Involves students actively in the learning process; synthesizes complex concepts and bodies of knowledge into well-communicated material; is approachable to students through fostering an environment of personal and professional concern and committed to what is going on not only within his/her department, but also throughout the University.

The Educator of the Year Award Committee is composed of seven members: Hanich, educational foundations; Dr. Carrie Smith, sociology/anthropology; Dr. Michelle White, academic advising; and Dr. Yuan Zhong, biology, as well as Millersville alum Kathy Brabson and graduate student Candace Williams.