Niemiera receives William E. Wine Award for Teaching Excellence

Alexander X. Niemiera, professor for the Department of Horticulture and assistant dean of student programs in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, has received the university’s 2016 William E. Wine Award.

The William E. Wine Award was established in 1957 by the Virginia Tech Alumni Association in memory of William E. Wine, Class of 1904, who was a former rector of the Board of Visitors and Alumni Association president. Following a college-level selection process of candidates nominated by students, faculty, and alumni, each college may put forth one nominee. From this group, three faculty members are selected annually. Each Wine Award winner receives $2,000 and automatic induction into the Academy of Teaching Excellence.

In addition to teaching  five routine courses per year, Niemiera has taught seven other courses for the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. He consistently receives above average SPOT evaluation scores from students who often describe his dedication to his students and the material.

Each semester he trains two to three graduate teaching assistants to conduct weekly woody plant identification labs for HORT 3325 and 3326.

“Although Dr. Niemiera has many advisees, teaches various classes, and has research responsibilities, he always makes every student feel as if they are deserving of his full attention,” wrote Jacob Shreckhise, Department of Horticulture graduate student, in a letter of nomination. “Not only does he make all of his students and GTAs feel welcome at all times, he always greets each with a smile and a comment tailored to the student.”

Read more at VT News.