Two faculty members at Stony Brook University have been named recipients of the 2025 Outstanding Lecturer Award. Elizabeth Bojsza, assistant professor of practice in the School of Communication and Journalism (SoCJ) and Alda Center for Communicating Science, and Tara Rider, senior lecturer and director of the environmental studies undergraduate program in the School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences (SoMAS), were selected for their contributions to teaching and service.
The Outstanding Lecturer Award is presented annually by the Provost’s Office to honor full-time lecturers who demonstrate excellence in teaching, service, and professional development.
“It is an honor to recognize Elizabeth Bojsza and Tara Rider with the Provost’s Outstanding Lecturer Award,” said Mónica Bugallo, vice provost for faculty and academic staff development and professor of electrical and computer engineering. “Their dedication and inspiration to student learning, academic excellence, and service exemplify the important role lecturers play in advancing the university’s educational mission and serving as role models within our academic community.”
Elizabeth Bojsza has played a key role in developing graduate programs at SoCJ as its first graduate program director. She contributed to creating an advanced graduate certificate in science communication, designing courses that use communication techniques from improvisational theater through the Alda Center.
“Throughout her time at the university, Elizabeth has been a model of dedicated and intentional teaching, creating learning communities with her students that are productive and engaging. She also initiates and contributes to faculty conversations around best practices in teaching, curriculum design and revision, and seeks out professional development opportunities to continue to improve her practice,” said Laura Lindenfeld, dean of the SoCJ and executive director of the Alda Center. “Elizabeth embodies a balance between preparation and adaptability that is key in the art of teaching, a quality that is appreciated by her students.”
Tara Rider directs the environmental studies undergraduate program at SoMAS. She has updated several programs including environmental studies curricula, established Semester by the Sea at Southampton campus, and leads study abroad trips focused on environmental issues.
“There are four words that encapsulate Tara Rider and her impact for our students: energy, enthusiasm, excitement and excellence,” said Paul Shepson, dean of SoMAS. “Our students should meet people who change their lives, drive them forward, and help them learn that they are capable of doing amazing things, and making the world a better place. More than anything, Dr. Rider inspires students to go farther than they ever thought possible.”
