Bruce Geisler Receives 2023 SBS Outstanding Teaching Award
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The College of Social and Behavioral Sciences (SBS) is pleased to announce that Bruce Geisler, senior lecturer II in the Department of Communication, is the recipient of the 2023 SBS Outstanding Teaching Award. This award, which was established in 1995 to recognize exceptional teaching performance, is a testament to Geisler's tireless efforts to provide his students with a transformative educational experience.
Geisler is a renowned documentary filmmaker in his own right, bringing invaluable practical insight to his students and inspiring them to pursue social justice themes in their work. He routinely offers popular courses in screenwriting, film documentary, and countercultural films. Geisler's pedagogical approach is focused on adapting to the digital age, ensuring that the department is providing the most up-to-date equipment and techniques for student learning. Not only has this approach helped the Department create a modern-day production and editing environment, it ensures that students are ready for post-graduate success in their chosen field.
As a mentor to newer faculty and students, Geisler works to help those around him. As one of Geisler's colleagues notes, "I have always been extremely impressed with the fantastic rapport Bruce has with his students, the ways he encourages them and guides them through thoughtful inquiry, constructive critique, and dialogue." He consistently receives high student evaluation scores, which are a testament to the quality of his teaching and the recognition by students of his efforts. He takes an active interest in the development of his students' careers, continuing to provide mentorship through their undergraduate experience and into the workforce. Many students have noted his willingness to help them navigate the production job market with helpful insights into career strategies and networking.
In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Geisler serves as the co-chair of the Communication 4+1 Committee, which has been developing an accelerated MA program focused on media production. He has also served as a jurist for many student film awards, including the Michael S. Roif Award, the Five College Student Film Festival, and the UMass Student Film Festival. A student who was nominated for the Michael S. Roif Award says, "Professor Geisler's impact on his students' film careers, throughout the years, is a testament to his commitment to teaching and helping students pursue their dreams in media and communication."
Geisler's dedication to teaching makes him a well-deserved recipient of the 2023 SBS Outstanding Teaching Award. His passion for film, his ability to help those around him adapt to new technologies, and his mentorship of his students will undoubtedly continue to inspire and shape the future of film and media in the Department of Communication for many years to come.
The SBS Outstanding Teaching Award is presented annually to a full-time faculty member teaching within the College for a minimum of three years. Awardees are nominated by their colleagues. Please visit the SBS website to see the complete award requirements and a list of all past winners.