Dr. David Allen

He really just wanted to see his colleagues get the recognition they deserved. That is why, after 32 years on the faculty of The University of Findlay, Dr. David Allen created the David L. Allen Award for Teaching Excellence, an endowed award given annually to a deserving member of the UF faculty.  “This is really an award for full-time faculty based on teaching effectiveness,” he said. “Most of the faculty here go beyond the basic call of duty, and it was time to give those kind of people some recognition and credit for doing the kinds of things they do.”

Dr. Allen passed away on Jan. 18, 2005.  Through a bequest in his will Dr. Allen added to his endowment fund. The endowment has grown from its beginning of $10,000 to more than $65,000.

The faculty recognition comes in the form of a $500 cash award each year and the honor of being named the recipient. Selection is based on those who embrace “holistic teaching excellence,” and recipients must be nominated through a letter of recommendation from students, staff or fellow faculty members. Quality and effectiveness of teaching, contributions to student growth and development, contributions to the profession, professional development as a teacher and contribution to the University community at large are all considered when selecting the recipient. The selection committee is comprised of representations of the faculty, administration, staff and currently enrolled students.

At the time of the award’s establishment, Dr. Allen explained that a similar award, established by the Churches of God, General Conference, had been given for many years. However, that award primarily focuses on recognizing publication and professional development of faculty and not necessarily the overall academic career of a given faculty member. “At an institution like The University of Findlay, faculty have the opportunity to do research, writing and presentations, but most of the faculty concentrate on teaching, advising, mentoring and conferences related to teaching their given subject matter. For almost all of our faculty, the focus is on teaching and relating to students outside the classroom,” Allen said. He pointed out that most faculty are committed to helping students crystallize their career plans and assess how they can gain entrance into graduate programs. 

There is also great support among faculty for students’ involvement in extracurricular activities such as sports, theatre, music, student government and other organizations.

“I also wanted this to be an award for faculty who are creative in developing new courses that are on the cutting edge, those who are willing to experiment with instructional methods and not just lecture. I think faculty who present material so students get excited and want to know more should be recognized,” he said. The David L. Allen Award for Teaching Excellence was awarded for the first time in the spring of 2002 to Jack Taylor, associate professor of music and director of bands.  

Dr. Allen himself was a dedicated UF faculty member, having served with the University since 1970. Holding the rank of professor of sociology, Allen served UF in numerous positions over the years. He was a division chairperson for 15 years, director of the first-year seminar program for 10 years and director of the social science area for six years. He held leadership positions on the Faculty Senate and was the Faculty Marshal. A member of numerous professional organizations and active in his community, Allen was recognized by the Findlay•Hancock County Chamber of Commerce as an Outstanding Educator. “I’m excited to give back, and I have hopes of growing the corpus of this award.  I truly believe there are scores of people here worthy of a teaching award,” Allen said.