Professor and Staff of the Year 2007

Two faculty members and a staff member have been honored by St. Ambrose University's student body for their distinguished work during the past academic year.

The Student Alumni Association awarded professor of the year honors to Jim Van Speybroeck, professor of finance, economics and decision science; and staff member of the year honors to Ann Austin, director of reading and study skills, student success center. Graduate professor of the year honors went to Kevin Farrell, professor of physical therapy, as chosen by the Graduate Student Government Association (GSGA).

Van Speybroeck is described as a favorite professor by both current and former students, according to the Director of Alumni and Parent Relations Devendra Shrikhande, who presented the award. "Statistics is my favorite course because of how Dr. Van Speybroeck takes the time to help me, both in and out of the classroom," said one student in their nomination.

A 1960 graduate of St. Ambrose, Van Speybroeck has been with the university since 1983. He is responsible for developing the decision sciences major. Van Speybroeck has served on numerous university committees throughout his tenure and is the outgoing president of the faculty assembly.

Austin teaches the College Reading and Study Skills course to first-semester students, provides study skills workshops, and assists with the hiring and training of tutors in St. Ambrose's Student Success Center. Austin began her Ambrose career in the SSC in 1993 and moved to the Services for Students with Disabilities Office in 1994-eventually serving as its director-before returning to the SSC and her current position.

According to Shrikhande, Austin has helped thousands of students reach their dream of higher education. "She has become one of the most loved members of the SAU family."

GSGA Treasurer Heather DeLoriea presented the graduate professor of the year award. "Not only is Dr. Farrell a great teacher, but also a great role model," she said. "He is very enthusiastic about what he teaches and truly cares about students, going above and beyond the expectations. He inspires us on a daily basis ... to be the best physical therapists we can be."

Farrell has been with St. Ambrose since 1992. In addition to teaching he serves as chair of post-professional programs, the Transition DPT Program and the Residency in Orthopeadic Physical Therapy. Farrell is also active in several campus service organizations.