The Distinguished University Professor program at Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) recognizes outstanding faculty for their significant contributions to teaching, research, and service. This page offers an overview of the program’s history and its evolution over the years.
The Beginning of the Program: 2010
The Distinguished University Professor program was officially established in 2010 at CWRU. This program was created to honor faculty members who have demonstrated exceptional leadership in their academic disciplines and have made a profound impact on the university and beyond.
This program was first outlined in the 2010 Faculty Handbook and discussed in the minutes of the Faculty Senate meeting on February 24, 2010. These sources provide the foundational details about the program's creation and the criteria for selection.
The University Professor Title: Pre-2010
Prior to 2010, CWRU awarded a prestigious honorary title known as "University Professor." Created in 1970 by President Robert Morse, this title was conferred on a select few faculty members who made exceptional contributions to the university.
Only four faculty members were awarded the University Professor title before the launch of the Distinguished University Professor program. This title marked a significant recognition of faculty achievements and laid the groundwork for the current program.