Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society, Anna K. Fridley, Distinguished Teaching Award (Tenure Track): Jennifer Lachowiec, Founders Day Faculty Awards, Academic Year 2022-23. Portrait of Jennifer Lachowiec.

Jennifer Lachowiec

Jennifer Lachowiec, assistant professor in the Department of Plant Sciences and Plant Pathology, has won the 2023 Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society, Anna K. Fridley Distinguished Teaching Award for a faculty member whose accomplishments with students reach beyond the classroom. Sponsored by the Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society, the award carries a $1,000 honorarium. 

Lachowiec teaches one undergraduate and two graduate level courses in plant science research, statistics and analysis. She redesigned her courses to make them more interactive and to help students develop career-building skills. Increased class enrollment size, high weekly class and office hours attendance and above-average student evaluation scores testify to her high regard among students. 

“Dr. Lachowiec is an excellent teacher who goes above and beyond expectations to engage students at all levels and help them develop the skills and confidence necessary to succeed at MSU and in their careers,” said Michael Giroux, department head for Plant Sciences and Plant Pathology, in a nomination letter. “She also takes the time to work on strategies to help other faculty and develop programs and new courses to engage students at all levels in science.” 

In response to student requests, Lachowiec co-developed and co-taught a graduate-level professional development course in addition to her academic classes. She supervises many undergraduate research projects, serves on 14 graduate committees and co-chairs three doctoral committees.