Feb. 23, 2005, Findlay, Ohio - Dr. Fumiko K. Harada was recognized as the recipient of the 2005 David Allen Award for Teaching Excellence, and Steven L. Beck was recognized as the recipient of the 2005 Founder’s Academic Excellence Award for Faculty at The University of Findlay’s Recognition and Appreciation Dinner on Friday, Feb. 11. Six faculty members also were honored for 20 years of service to UF.

Dr. Harada, professor of Japanese and special assistant to the President, is the recipient of the 2005 David Allen Award for Teaching Excellence. The award recognizes faculty members for teaching performance that extends beyond the classroom. According to Dr. Dan May, vice president of academic affairs, “Her students know that her classes are very challenging, but they also know that she is a very committed and caring teacher who always makes time for them.”

Dr. Harada joined UF in 1989. In addition to building the Japanese program, she provides tremendous support and guidance to the UF international student population. For nearly a decade, Dr. Harada has organized exchange and visit opportunities for UF faculty and Findlay city educators with Japanese elementary and high schools, universities and companies. Her service to the families of employees at Japanese companies in Findlay and northwest Ohio is a model of intercultural cooperation.

Prof. Beck, associate professor of communication and adviser to WLFC-FM, is the recipient of the 2005 Founder’s Academic Excellence Award For Faculty. The award was established by the Churches of God, General Conference and UF. The recipient is selected based on quality of teaching, scholarship, relationship with students, commitment to the University and colleagues, positive role model, and Christian lifestyle.

Prof. Beck joined UF in 1996. A student-centered professor, Prof. Beck has developed the broadcast telecommunication emphasis, and brought UF-TV and Oiler Productions to county cable TV audiences. He has helped redefine the communication major, and supported the establishment of the PRSSA student organization and the annual Communication Day. He has served as Faculty Senate chair, is on numerous University committees and is active in the First Lutheran Church.

Faculty members recognized for 20 years of service to the University were Prof. Stephen F. Brown, director of the Western Riding Program and instructor of riding; Prof. Craig E. Gunnett, assistant professor of computer science; Prof. Teresa J. LaRocco, assistant professor of English; Dr. Peter Maldonado, dean of the College of Business and associate professor of business; Prof. Elaine M. Markon, assistant director of the Nuclear Medicine Institute; and Prof. Judith M. McCrory, co-director of mathematics and assistant professor of mathematics.