Two faculty members at Stony Brook University have received the 2025 Outstanding Lecturer Award. The honorees are 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).
The Provost’s Office presents this award annually to recognize 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 played a key role in building SoCJ’s graduate programs as its first graduate program director. She contributed to creating the school’s initial graduate offering—an advanced graduate certificate in science communication—and designed courses that combine communication strategies with improvisational theater techniques from 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 serves as senior lecturer at SoMAS where she directs the environmental studies undergraduate program. At Stony Brook University she has helped update several programs including revising environmental studies curricula, establishing Semester by the Sea at Southampton campus, as well as leading study abroad initiatives focused on environmental issues in Ireland and England.
“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.”
