John S. Diekhoff Award

For Excellence in Graduate Teaching and Mentoring

The John S. Diekhoff Award is presented to four full-time faculty members who make exemplary contributions to the education and development of graduate students at Case Western Reserve University. The award was created in honor of John Diekhoff, who served in several capacities during his tenure here. From 1956 to 1970, he served as professor of English, chair of the Department of English, dean of Cleveland College, acting dean of the School of Graduate Studies and vice provost of the university.

In 1978, the university created the award to recognize outstanding contributions to the education of graduate students through advising, mentoring, and classroom teaching. Initially, the award was presented to two full-time faculty members who serve as outstanding teachers to graduate students, connect them with experts in their discipline, engage them academically, and actively promote their professional development. In 2009, the award was expanded to recognize two full-time faculty members who excel in the mentoring of graduate students.

The award is sponsored by the School of Graduate Studies. A committee of graduate students reviews the nominations and recommends the winners.

Join the student selection committee! Learn more about the committee and time commitment on the committee application.

Review the criteria for nominating faculty. Applications for 2022-23 have closed. Applications for 2023-24 will open soon. 

Congratulations to Our 2023 Winners

	Karla Coburn - Anatomy Read The Daily for more on Professor Coburn's passion for teaching and her goal to offer the best learning experience to her students.
	Jason Mears - Pharmacology Read The Daily about how Professor Mears creates a learning environment in which each student can thrive based on where they are in their scientific, academic and personal development.
	Andrew Pieper - Psychiatry Read The Daily to find out more about Professor Pieper's person-centered approach toward mentoring, positive outlook and generosity of his time in.
	Bill Yu - Civil and Environmental Engineering Read The Daily to find out more about Professor Yu's adaptive mentoring approach and how he encourages his students to enjoy the journey.

See the list of all prior winners for the John S. Diekhoff Awards.

Congratulations to Our 2023 Nominees!