Five University of Michigan lecturers have been recognized for their exceptional teaching and commitment to inclusive education. Laurie McCauley, provost and executive vice president for academic affairs, announced the 2025-2026 Collegiate Lecturers: Jennifer Cummings, Jeremy Edwards, Terence McGinn, and Lisa Young. Scott Beal received the 2025 Lecturer Excellence in Inclusive-Teaching Award. The awards honor lecturers for sustained excellence in teaching, service, and contributions to the university community.
The Collegiate Lecturer title is awarded annually to up to four lecturers who demonstrate exceptional teaching or service. The Lecturer Excellence in Inclusive Teaching Award is given to one lecturer each year, recognizing outstanding inclusive teaching practices. Here are highlights from letters of support for each honoree:
Jennifer Cummings
Lecturer IV in LSA’s Department of Psychology
Jennifer Cummings is renowned for her teaching in the Department of Psychology, consistently earning top evaluations. Her courses play a crucial role in the Biopsychology, Cognition, and Neuroscience major and the Neuroscience major. Since 2018, she has also taught a summer course for the Michigan Math and Science Scholars Program, engaging high school students in college-level science research. Cummings has received multiple honors, including the LSA Unsung Champion Advising Award. Her dedication to teaching excellence makes her an invaluable member of the U-M community.
Jeremy Edwards
Lecturer II in the School of Music, Theatre & Dance’s Department of Performing Arts Technology
Since joining the Performing Arts Technology Department in 2012, Jeremy Edwards has been a distinguished educator and innovator. He has developed student-centered curricula integrating emerging technologies in audio engineering, music production, and electronic composition. Edwards is recognized for his inclusive approach and has been nominated twice for the U-M Golden Apple and ADUE Teaching Awards. His interdisciplinary collaborations and dedication to student success have greatly impacted the SMTD community.
Terence McGinn
Lecturer II in LSA’s Department of Sociology
Terence McGinn has been a pivotal figure in the Sociology Department since 1997, educating over 10,000 students. His courses span from gender and culture to technology and criminology, known for making complex concepts accessible. Beyond teaching, he has mentored numerous students in independent studies and honors theses. McGinn’s innovative methods, like the “quad” discussion model, are key features of the department’s curriculum. His nearly 30 years of service highlight the Collegiate Lecturer ideal of excellence in teaching and mentorship.
Lisa Young
Lecturer IV in LSA’s Department of Anthropology
With over 20 years of excellence in teaching and community engagement, Lisa Young has developed hands-on learning opportunities, such as the Homolovi Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program. She has advised over 60 honors students and established a popular research symposium. A recipient of the Provost’s Innovation Teaching Prize, Young transformed her Museum Anthropology course to facilitate dialogues between U-M students and Native American communities. Her mentorship and innovative teaching strategies have greatly enriched the university’s educational landscape.
Scott Beal
Adjunct lecturer in LSA’s Sweetland Center for Writing
Since 2012, Scott Beal has been a model of student-centered teaching at Sweetland. His courses are crafted with inclusive pedagogical practices, creating a welcoming environment for diverse perspectives. Students consistently commend his balance of academic rigor and compassion. Beyond the classroom, Beal has helped establish collaborative spaces for faculty to share inclusive teaching practices, enhancing community partnerships. His work inspires deeper engagement in inclusive learning and teaching.
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