Chung honored with CANR Camden Endowed Teaching Award
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EmailKimberly Chung, Ph.D., of the Department of Community Sustainability, will receive the Howard and Lili Camden Endowed Teaching Award on May 8
Kimberly Chung, Ph.D., of the Department of Community Sustainability, will receive the Howard and Lili Camden Endowed Teaching Award on May 8.
The Howard and Lili Camden Endowed Teacher/Scholar Award recognizes individuals with five or more years of teaching service in CANR who have developed innovative teaching methods, mentored in and out of the classroom, and demonstrated instructional excellence, scholarly achievement and professional linkages.
Throughout her career, Kimberly Chung, Ph.D., an associate professor in the Department of Community Sustainability, has focused primarily on graduate education, developing courses that equip students with the foundational skills necessary for conducting research and engaging with communities.
Her teaching philosophy emphasizes complex problem-solving and critical reasoning, moving beyond rote memorization to foster deep understanding and practical application. Chung's observant and responsive teaching style has made her courses popular among graduate students. She normalizes confusion and addresses complex topics head-on, using real-world examples and ongoing discussions to help students gain insight. Her courses also fill gaps in traditional curricula by teaching essential skills like qualitative data analysis and community engagement.
Beyond the classroom, Chung is a dedicated mentor. She actively supports her graduate students in publishing and assists with study design and methods. She is known for her willingness to make time for students in need, often going above and beyond her formal appointment. She also collaborates with faculty who advise students of color admitted through formal bridging programs, offering support to ensure their success and helping them transition into positions where they can mentor others.
Chung has also made significant contributions through her appointment in MSU Extension and the Community Food and Environment Institute (CFEI). Her efforts ensure that teaching excellence is upheld in programs, making participants feel welcome and ensuring they learn relevant and valuable information.
As Chung prepares to retire in December 2025, her legacy of excellence in teaching and mentorship will continue to inspire future generations of scholars. Her contributions to graduate education, MSUE programs and community partnerships have left an indelible mark on the CANR.
