Two faculty members from New Mexico State University's College of Arts and Sciences were honored with the prestigious Donald C. Roush Award for Teaching Excellence at a ceremony Wednesday, Feb. 19, in Milton Hall.

"This recognition underscores the outstanding work of our faculty," said Enrico Pontelli, dean of NMSU's College of Arts and Sciences. "Dr. Chinnasamy and professor D'Antonio-Hangen exemplify the high standards we strive for at NMSU, and their impact on students is immeasurable. Their passion for teaching inspires excellence across campus."

Ramesh Chinnasamy, a college associate professor of chemistry and biochemistry, and Ida D'Antonio-Hangen, a college assistant professor in criminal justice, were both selected to receive the award, which recognizes outstanding teaching and dedication to student success.

Chinnasamy, whose research focuses on metal catalyzed synthetic methodology and their applications in organic chemistry and synthesizing molecules for cancer therapeutic practices, has been recognized for his approach towards teaching complex scientific concepts. He has created a dynamic classroom environment where students are encouraged to think critically, engage with challenging material, and be successful.

Shelley Lusetti, professor and head of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, emphasized the importance of Chinnasamy's work, "Ramesh, as well as all of our faculty and professors have done a great job of preparing our students for what comes next." Lusetti said. "We are happy to have him in our department."

"To be changing the lives of these students and challenging our students and being a part of getting them to graduation, I am very happy, thank you for this award." Chinnasamy said.

D'Antonio-Hangen, whose work focuses on criminal justice theory, policy and practice, is praised for her commitment to mentorship and student development through her approach to real-world problems.

Dennis Giever, professor and head of the Department of Criminal Justice, highlighted her dedication to mentoring students. "She's retired from the FBI, and many students come in interested in federal law enforcement or federal agencies," Giever said. "She does an outstanding job of mentoring these students and is also a strong advocate for the "30 by 30" initiative which aims to increase the number of women in law enforcement." The "30 by 30" is a national initiative seeking to raise the number of women police recruits to 30 percent by 2030."

"It was my FBI experience in the real world, and I pass that on to my students," D'Antonio-Hangen said. "So, when Dennis (Giever) said they're your classes to design, I thought, 'Well, here we go.' I was just trying to give students a more practical experience."

The ceremony highlighted the importance of high-caliber teaching and the positive influence that dedicated faculty members have on students' academic and personal growth. Both award recipients were nominated by their peers and recognized for their exceptional ability to engage and inspire their students.

For more information or to see previous award winners, visit https://convocation.nmsu.edu/awards/roush.html.

The full article can be seen at https://newsroom.nmsu.edu/news/nmsu-faculty-members-receive-donald-c.-roush-award-for-teaching-excellence/s/d612a047-6b8d-494d-9e3b-26d710bdbfcf