Starting in spring 2022, and each semester thereafter, the Outstanding Teaching Assistant (TA) Award recognizes the contributions of graduate students to teaching and learning at Columbia Business School. Awardees receive a small monetary prize to acknowledge their achievement and contribution. Calls for nominations will be sent via email to all CBS faculty.
Faculty are welcome to nominate a TA with whom they've worked during the current term. TAs should be considered for the award if they are truly outstanding and have performed above and beyond the basics of their job (i.e., attending class meetings, holding office hours, demonstrating knowledge of course materials, grading assignments promptly, responding to students' emails, etc.). In executing their duties, outstanding TAs demonstrate excellence through the quality of their interactions with students, oral and written communication, and innovative and creative approaches, ensuring that academic success is achieved by students.
A selection committee composed of the Senior Vice Dean of Curriculum and Programs, the Vice Dean for Research, and staff from the Samberg Institute for Teaching Excellence will convene to select the winners and will notify award recipients. The committee may reach out to divisional chairs and other faculty for input in making their decisions.
To nominate someone, please complete this nomination form and attach a letter of recommendation (400-800 words), which explains why the nominee merits special recognition as an Outstanding TA, including specific evidence of creativity and/or extra effort in improving instruction and teaching effectiveness, going beyond standard expectations in the following areas:
- Performance - going above and beyond the basics of their job (i.e., attending class meetings, holding office hours, demonstrating knowledge of course materials, grading assignments promptly, responding to students' emails, etc.)
- Interactions with students
- Oral and written communication
- Innovative and creative approaches
If you have any questions about this award, please email [email protected].