More than 300 faculty and staff members, administrators, and their families came together last week to celebrate excellence in teaching, mentoring, and research across the University of Miami at the Provost’s Awards Ceremony, in the largest celebration yet, organizers said.
The annual celebration recognizes outstanding faculty members who are supporting students or conducting innovative research across the University’s 11 schools and colleges.
“This ceremony honors the incredible breadth of contributions our faculty make—through groundbreaking research, transformative teaching, and unwavering service to the University and wider community,” said Guillermo “Willy” Prado, interim executive vice president of academic affairs and provost. “Their work not only elevates our institution, but also touches lives far beyond the classroom. I am humbled to be part of such an impactful community of scholars.”
Professor Kele Stewart, co-director of the Children and Youth Law Clinic, took home the Provost’s Excellence in Experiential Teaching Award, which recognizes a faculty member who demonstrates an outstanding commitment to the student learning process, integrating excellent teaching with opportunities for experiential learning through curricular and co-curricular activities, and actively promoting and guiding learning outside of the classroom.
"Professor Kele Stewart has transformed legal education by turning her Children and Youth Law Clinic into a living classroom where students handle cases, advocate in court, and engage in systemic reform on behalf of children in foster care," said Kathi Kern, senior vice provost of education, who delivered the award. "Her approach empowers them to grow as confident, capable, and compassionate advocates. Students graduate not only as skilled lawyers but as thoughtful, justice-driven professionals."
Additionally, three other School of Law professors were award finalists.
Professor Michele DeStefano, the Larry Hoffman Greenberg Traurig Business of Law Chair and founder and director of LawWithoutWalls, was a finalist for the Innovation in Teaching Award. The prize recognizes faculty who have overcome a difficult course-related problem with a novel and enduring approach.
Professor Andres Sawicki, director of the School of Law Business of Innovation, Law, & Technology Concentration, was a finalist for the Discussion-Based Learning Award, which recognizes faculty who have created engaging educational experiences that leverage dialogue and discussion-based techniques, such as the Harkness Method, flipped learning, and problem-based learning.
Professor Irwin Stotzky was a finalist for the Luis Glaser Mentorship Award, which recognizes a member of the faculty who has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to mentoring students. Exceptional mentoring can include offering advice, feedback, guidance, or coaching; providing professional opportunities for mentees; or assisting in the development of life skills.
"In celebrating the achievements of our remarkable faculty, we acknowledge their profound impact on shaping the next generation of legal professionals," said interim dean Patricia Sanchez Abril. "Professor Kele Stewart's innovative teaching through the Children and Youth Law Clinic exemplifies the spirit of experiential learning critical to our mission. Her dedication enhances our students' education and instills a deep commitment to justice and advocacy. We are proud to honor not just professor Stewart, but professors DeStefano, Sawicki, and Stotzky, who exemplify excellence in teaching and mentorship at our law school."
Read more about Miami Law’s faculty.
