Grissom named Professor of the Year

Scott Grissom, a professor in the School of Computing and Information Systems, was selected as Professor of the Year by the Presidents Council, State Universities of Michigan.

Each year, the academic affairs officers at each of the fifteen public universities nominate an outstanding faculty member from their campus who excels in terms of undergraduate education, student learning and commitment to the success of their students. Of those 15 candidates, three are chosen as Professor of the Year by the Presidents Council. As a recipient of this year’s award, Grissom will be honored at a luncheon in Lansing on May 14.

“This is a great honor for me. I’ve always had a passion for teaching, and that matches well with what Grand Valley strives to achieve,” Grissom said. “This is my ninth year here, and from day one I’ve always been impressed with everyone’s commitment to the student at Grand Valley. It’s a powerful synergy, and it helps keep me excited about my teaching.”

Grissom has earned a national reputation for his contribution to computer science undergraduate education. His reputation as a leader in the field is indicated by the invitations he receives to review textbooks, NSF grants, faculty promotions and computer science curricula. Professor Grissom's scholarship of teaching has not only improved his own teaching, but it has made a significant contribution to the computer science education community.

"Professor Grissom has been an inspiration to undergraduate students in computer science at Grand Valley," said Provost Gayle Davis. “What’s more, he has made his insights and best practices in the classroom accessible to others through scholarship on teaching and learning that is highly acclaimed in his field. Professor Grissom’s positive impact extends far beyond the local arena, and Grand Valley is fortunate indeed to have him as a faculty member.”

Grissom was among three faculty members who received Glenn A. Niemeyer Awards, Grand Valley’s most prestigious academic honor for faculty.