The winner of the Maryrose and Dan Short Award for Teaching Excellence is Sh’Niqua Alford, assistant professor of professional practice and director of the bachelor of social work program in the Harris College of Nursing & Health Sciences. Among her accomplishments, Alford successfully developed – and continues to develop – study abroad opportunities in social work and has implemented interprofessional education activities in her Harris College course work. She maintains her license as a clinical social worker and has completed trauma-specific education.
The Maryrose and Dan Short Award recognizes excellence in teaching and is specifically focused on exceptional untenured (tenure-track or non-tenure track), full-time faculty members with five years or less at TCU. Nominations from colleges and schools are submitted to academic deans who select the top candidates to submit to the provost for final selection. This award was established by Dan Short, former dean of the Neeley School of Business, in memory of his wife, Maryrose Short. The award carries a special significance and award this year, as Dan Short passed away March 1. Before his passing, he made a gift that will increase this year’s commemorative award to $10,000. Part of the award is to be used for professional development.