An assistant professor of biology in the Department of Natural, Information, and Mathematical Sciences, Finkler was recognized in the full-time faculty category and received a $3,000 award. He teaches physiology. As an associate member of the IU graduate faculty, he also teaches in the Master of Liberal Arts Program.

An adjunct instructor in English for IU Kokomo’s Department of Humanities since 1987, Suffield received a $1,000 prize in the adjunct category. Specializing in teaching composition, she has also taught freshmen seminar courses and "Western World Masterpieces" at the Kokomo campus. She is chairman of the English department at Western High School and teaches a range of courses, from freshman composition and advanced placement English literature to a dual-credit course that allows Western students to earn composition credits through IU Bloomington.

Susan Sciame-Giesecke, dean of the School of Arts and Sciences, praised Suffield’s willingness to try new approaches to enhance student success. "She recently linked her English composition class with an introductory history course to enable students to develop their writing skills in the general education program. I am so pleased that IU Kokomo has recognized Judy’s teaching excellence.

"One facet of Dr. Finkler’s excellence in teaching is his work with undergraduate research projects," Sciame-Giesecke said. "This past year, he mentored four students in his laboratory. Mike is a very accessible teacher who is truly interested in engaging students in the scientific research process. I know as word spreads about Mike, students will choose to study at IU Kokomo because of the research opportunities he provides."

"Both candidates submitted dossiers that demonstrated strong evidence of consistently excellent teaching," said Stuart Green, vice chancellor for academic affairs. The Claude Rich award recognizes excellence in teaching over time, Green noted, rather than awarding just one year’s accomplishments. Their selection represents "something very special on a campus where we have many fine full-time and adjunct faculty members, and where excellence in teaching and learning is at the center of what we are about," he said.

The award commemorates the late Claude Rich, a Howard County native who retired from IU after 44 years of service.