Fox Cities News

UWO Professor Donald Hones, UW-Stevens Point Professor Rebecca Stephens, and the Special Education Department at UW-Whitewater have been honored with the Regents’ top teaching award from the University of Wisconsin System Board of Regents. Each recipient will receive $7,500 and will be recognized at the upcoming Regents meeting at UW-Platteville. The awards aim to commend exceptional commitment to teaching and learning, effective teaching strategies, and significant impact on students’ intellectual development.

Regent Cris Peterson, chair of the selection committee, expressed pride in recognizing the recipients' innovative and successful teaching approaches. Peterson stated, “These UW educators and programs are inspiring and supporting students in their educational journey.”

Donald Hones, a professor at UW Oshkosh, was acknowledged for his dedication to ESL and bilingual education. Hones has published studies on pedagogical practices and collaborated with public-school teachers to enhance outcomes for ESL students. He has also led study abroad trips and developed exchange programs for educators globally. Hones' efforts have impacted over 5,000 students during his tenure, with many becoming teachers themselves.

Rebecca Stephens, a professor at UW-Stevens Point, was commended for her work in the English Education program and her commitment to teaching future secondary English teachers. Stephens' focus on incorporating the latest scholarship in teaching and learning has led to the program's graduates achieving a 100 percent placement rate, with several receiving accolades for their teaching excellence.

The Special Education Department at UW-Whitewater, led by Amy Stevens, was recognized for its 50-year history of preparing special educators to meet the evolving needs of the field. The department's focus on high-impact practices, including community-based learning and internships, has resulted in high retention and graduation rates. The LIFE program at UW-Whitewater provides a comprehensive transition and postsecondary experience for young adults with intellectual disabilities.

In addition to Hones, Stephens, and the Special Education Department at UW-Whitewater, other nominees were acknowledged for their contributions to teaching excellence. The selection committee also recognized individual nominees and program nominees from various University of Wisconsin campuses.

The recipients and nominees exemplify the commitment to excellence in teaching across the University of Wisconsin System, as they continue to inspire and support students in their educational journeys.