MARION, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)—Frances Sivakoff, an esteemed faculty member at The Ohio State University at Marion and assistant professor in the College of Arts and Sciences Department of Evolution, Ecology and Organismal Biology, has been named a recipient of The Ohio State University’s 2024 Alumni Award for Distinguished Teaching. This prestigious award, established during the 1959-1960 academic year, recognizes excellence in teaching.
Sivakoff was surprised with the news of her selection during a virtual meeting on March 27. Senior Vice Provost for Faculty Patrick Louchouarn, Vice Provost for Academic Policy and Faculty Resources Helen Malone, and Ohio State Alumni Association Chief of Strategy and Belonging Tina Pierce joined the celebration.
According to Ohio State Marion Dean and Director, Gregory S. Rose, Sivakoff’s impact on the learning of Ohio State Marion students, particularly in biology 1101 courses, has been significant. “The innovative teaching methods she has introduced involve students in different and engaging ways of learning,” said Rose.
Sivakoff’s teaching record is underscored by consistently highly rated student evaluations and positive testimonials. Students admire her clear expectations, helpful guidance, dedication to their success, and ability to make complex topics understandable.
“Thank you so much for this award. I am so honored and humbled by it,” said Sivakoff after the announcement was made. “I could not have done the excellent teaching that I have been acknowledged for without the support staff and my colleagues, all the help I have received. Number one, thank you to my students. Receiving this award is great.”
Sivakoff’s commitment to student learning extends beyond the classroom. She actively engages with students outside of class, providing guidance on course and career matters, advising student organizations, and participating in various student-focused activities.
“Frances reflects the model of teaching excellence at Ohio State,” said Louchouarn. “Not only does she create an engaging learning environment where all students feel supported, but she develops innovative teaching approaches that connect the material to students’ daily experiences and real-life examples.”
Sivakoff and other 2024 faculty award winners will be recognized on April 30 during the annual Faculty Awards Celebration. The Alumni Award for Distinguished Teaching recipients are recognized with a $5,000 honorarium made possible by gifts from The Ohio State University Alumni Association, University Advancement, and the Office of Academic Affairs (OAA). In addition, OAA awards an increase of $1,200 to each recipient’s base salary. Members are also inducted into Ohio State’s Academy of Teaching.