The James D. Clowes Award was established in 2003 to recognize the innovative contributions to teaching and learning by a member of the university community. Named for Professor James D. Clowes, a leader of the Comparative History of Ideas Program and a member of the Henry Jackson School of International Studies, the award recognizes a faculty or staff member who transforms undergraduate learning by creating or sustaining learning communities among students.

The faculty or staff person chosen for the award will have demonstrated extraordinary capacity to encourage and connect students and faculty to engage one another; to transform the traditional classroom into shared experiences beyond the classroom that may include international programs of study; or have encouraged student-facilitated learning opportunities to open doors for service and community-based projects that are integrated into their programs of study.

Who is Eligible:
Faculty and staff of the University of Washington are eligible to receive a James D. Clowes Award.

Award Background:
The faculty or staff member selected will receive a $3,000 stipend. In addition, $2,000 will be allocated to the recipient’s program or department to support student participation in learning communities.

Nomination Procedure:
The deadline for nominations for the James D. Clowes Award for the Advancement of Learning Communities is Friday, December 7, 2007, 5pm . All members of the University community (faculty, staff, students, alumni) may submit a one-page letter nominating a faculty or staff member for this award. Self-nominations are not accepted. Letters of nomination must include your name and current mailing address, and a description of how the individual has created, sustained or enhanced learning communities among undergraduates. Please submit your letter of nomination to the 2007 Distinguished Teaching Awards Selection Committee, 220 Mary Gates Hall, Box 352800, or online below:

Selection Procedure:
The department or unit heads of persons nominated will be asked to submit supporting documentation to the Committee. The Committee will make recommendations to the President, who will make the final Clowes Award selection. The winner will be announced early spring and will be honored at the Annual Recognition Ceremony in Meany Hall in June, 2008.