Golden State Today

The Academic Senate and Federation have announced their 2025 awardees, honoring faculty members for their significant contributions in teaching, research, and public service. The awards recognize individuals who have made an impact across campus and beyond.

John P. McGahan, a Distinguished Professor Emeritus from the Department of Radiology at the School of Medicine, received the Distinguished Public Service Award. His career is marked by innovations such as using radiofrequency ablation to treat tumors and efforts to enhance ultrasound practice standards in North America.

Six faculty members were recommended for the Distinguished Teaching Awards. Michael Mienaltowski, Associate Professor in Animal Science, is recognized for his engaging undergraduate teaching methods. Susan Gentry from Materials Science and Engineering has been lauded for her innovative educational approaches during the pandemic. Lisa Oakes of Psychology is noted for fostering interactive learning environments. Meaghan O’Keefe in Religious Studies co-led the launch of a Medical Humanities Minor and has influenced curriculum development.

In graduate and professional teaching, Claudia Sánchez-Gutiérrez from Spanish and Portuguese stands out for her applied linguistics courses. Colleen Sweeney from Biochemistry has been acknowledged for updating medical science courses with clinical relevance.

Andreas Bäumler was awarded the Faculty Distinguished Research Award for his work on gut microbiome mechanisms that influence inflammatory diseases.

The Academic Federation also honored Kelly Behre with the Distinguished Service Award for her work at the Domestic & Sexual Violence Law Clinic. Negar Omidvari received recognition for her research in biomedical imaging technologies.

Excellence in Teaching Awards went to Cyrus Bateni from Radiology, Brenda Rinard from the University Writing Center, and Wendy Terry from Religious Studies for their outstanding educational contributions.

This year's honorees exemplify dedication to academic excellence and community service within UC Davis and beyond.