Anthropology Professor Receives Distinguished Teaching Award
By Briana Van Havermaat, Student Intern of CHASS College Computing

Scott L. Fedick, Professor of Anthropology at UCR, received the Academic Senate’s Distinguished Teaching Award for 2005-2006. The award is granted on the basis of student evaluations and peer reviews. Fedick was recognized by students and colleagues for his commitment to student learning as well as his eagerness to raise money to support programs which aid student education and experience.

The fundraising completed by Fedick has provided more than 100 undergraduate students experience in archeological research on the ancient Maya in the Yucatán Peninsula of Mexico. He also provided numerous graduate students with dissertation and thesis topics. While most of these students are from UCR, others come from U.S. universities as well as several foreign countries.

His project on Yalahau Regional Human Ecology observes the interaction between the ancient Maya and their environment. It focuses on agricultural practices and the use of natural resources. This research has created partnerships with colleagues in UCR’s Department of Botany and Plant Sciences and the Center for Conservation Biology. It has also created a relationship with collaborators from different disciplines at the National Autonomous University of Mexico and assorted other institutions in Mexico, allowing an enriching learning environment for students in different disciplines.