Eliot Circular

Psych Prof Named Professor of the Year

photo by cate whitcomb

Prof. Jennifer Henderlong Corpus [psychology 2001–] was named 2014 Oregon Professor of the Year by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching in recognition of her innovative approach to teaching and learning and her ability to challenge students beyond the classroom.

“Each of our awardees, state and national, brings extraordinary leadership not just to their classrooms, but to their departments, colleges, and universities, and their respective professional fields,” said Anthony S. Bryk, president of CFAT. “We honor them for upholding and guiding the aspirations of their students, advancing knowledge, and elevating and dignifying the profession of teaching. In recognizing their commitment and excellence, their contributions, and their demonstrated passion, we support the centrality of teaching on campus and recognize its importance to the future of our country.”

Judges selected the national and state winners based on four criteria: impact on and involvement with undergraduate students; scholarly approach to teaching and learning; contributions to undergraduate education in the institution, community, and profession; and support from colleagues and current and former students.

“This honor underscores how lucky I feel to be at Reed, surrounded by outstanding educators and truly inspiring students,” Corpus told us. “I am grateful for the opportunity to know and learn from them on a daily basis.”

Prof. Corpus is an expert on the field of motivation and has conducted extensive research into the role of praise (of the attaboy! variety), which can function as a reward with both positive and negative consequences.