At the University of Michigan, some educators are setting noteworthy standards in teaching excellence. Among them, five lecturers have distinguished themselves through remarkable contributions to instruction and inclusive teaching methods, earning recognition for their efforts.
Laurie McCauley, who serves as the provost and executive vice president for academic affairs, announced the 2025-2026 Collegiate Lecturers: Jennifer Cummings, Jeremy Edwards, Terence McGinn, and Lisa Young. In addition, Scott Beal was honored with the 2025 Lecturer Excellence in Inclusive-Teaching Award.
The Collegiate Lecturer title is granted to lecturers II and IV who exhibit sustained excellence in teaching, learning, service, or other university contributions, with a maximum of four recipients annually. The Lecturer Excellence in Inclusive Teaching Award, open to all lecturer classifications, recognizes those with a continued record of exceptional inclusive teaching practices.
Jennifer Cummings
Lecturer IV in LSA’s Department of Psychology
Jennifer Cummings is revered for her high-quality teaching of both core and advanced courses within the Department of Psychology. Her classes are known for receiving some of the highest evaluations.
Her expertise is integral to the Biopsychology, Cognition, and Neuroscience major, as well as the broader Neuroscience discipline. Cummings has also been active in the Michigan Math and Science Scholars Program since 2018, guiding high school students through advanced coursework and research.
Her accolades include the LSA Unsung Champion Advising Award and the Amy L. and Kirk L. Wolfe Prize, highlighting her commitment to educational excellence.
Jeremy Edwards
Lecturer II in the School of Music, Theatre & Dance’s Department of Performing Arts Technology
Jeremy Edwards has been a key figure in the Performing Arts Technology Department since 2012. He is celebrated for his student-centered curricula that integrate cutting-edge technologies in audio engineering and music production.
Having earned nominations for both the U-M Golden Apple and ADUE Teaching Awards, Edwards is commended for his interdisciplinary collaborations and commitment to inclusivity in education.
Terence McGinn
Lecturer II in LSA’s Department of Sociology
Terence McGinn has enriched the Department of Sociology since 1997, impacting over 10,000 students through his engaging pedagogy. He has taught more than 100 courses spanning topics like gender, culture, and criminology.
McGinn’s teaching is characterized by innovative methods such as the “quad” discussion model, and his mentorship has fostered success in numerous students and new lecturers.
Lisa Young
Lecturer IV in LSA’s Department of Anthropology
With over two decades of service, Lisa Young is recognized for her innovative teaching and community engagement. She has developed the Homolovi Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program, which merges archaeology with public outreach.
Young, a recipient of the Provost’s Innovation Teaching Prize, is known for fostering intercultural dialogues and advising on pedagogical strategies that include technological and thematic elements.
Scott Beal
Adjunct lecturer in LSA’s Sweetland Center for Writing
Scott Beal has been an advocate for inclusive teaching at the Sweetland Center for Writing since 2012. His courses prioritize inclusive practices, cultivating a welcoming environment for all students.
Beal is praised for combining rigorous content with compassion, creating a classroom atmosphere conducive to open dialogue. Beyond teaching, he has enhanced institutional collaboration and expanded community partnerships through outreach efforts.
