UNCW psychology professor Caroline (Carrie) Clements has won the 2017 UNC Board of Governors Award for Excellence in Teaching. The award is presented yearly to an outstanding faculty member at each of the 17 campuses of the University of North Carolina system.
“Carrie exemplifies the qualities of teaching, scholarship, community engagement and global focus that are emphasized in UNCW’s Strategic Plan,” said Provost Marilyn Sheerer.
“In my interactions with our students, I have frequently heard that Dr. Clements is the best professor they’ve had during their college experience. She is extremely deserving of this honor, and I am happy that the UNC board has recognized her many contributions.”
Recognized as a gifted teacher, scholar and mentor, Clements has received the UNCW Chancellor’s Teaching Excellence Award, the Distinguished Teaching Professorship Award, the Distinguished Faculty Scholar Award, a Board of Trustees Teaching Excellence Award and the J. Marshall Crews Distinguished Faculty Award.
She says her philosophy is that teaching relies on building relationships and communities. “The extent to which I connect with students and the manner in which I convey my care for their learning and the subject matter sets the stage for the unique community that each of my classes becomes,” she said. “My job is to set the stage for what will be a caring and connected learning community the first day of class, and to nurture it as it evolves.”