Distinguished Teaching Award for Animal Sciences’ Kris Johnson

Kris Johnson, professor and interim chair of the WSU Department of Animal Sciences, will receive the Distinguished Teaching Award this month from the American Society of Animal Science.

Kris Johnson
Kris Johnson

Johnson, a respected teacher, student advisor and researcher in ruminant nutrition, has worked at WSU for 26 years. She currently teaches Animal Sciences Orientation to freshmen, Beef Production and Ruminant Nutrition.

Johnson was nominated by Animal Sciences faculty for the award, which recognizes teachers who motivate and stimulate undergraduate and graduate students in animal sciences.

“I am honored to receive this award,” said Johnson, who thanked her colleagues for their support. “It is probably the highest teaching honor one can win in my field and the list of past winners is incredible!”

Johnson enjoys working with her students.

“It is rewarding to show students they can solve problems, and then allow them to practice and develop their abilities to think creatively,” she said.

ASAS judges gauge candidates’ vision, attitude, and mastery of the subject and the impression they make on students.

Other considerations include their ability to translate research into practice, service to agriculture and industry, and their activities beyond regular teaching, such as research and extension, service on committees, advising clubs and counseling students, and training and placement. Letters from students and published materials are also weighed.

Johnson will receive the award, which includes a monetary award, at the society’s joint annual meeting, July 19-23 in Salt Lake City.

Learn more about ASAS at https://www.asas.org/home.

Kris Johnson, current Chair of the Department of Animal Sciences, visits with students at the 2015 CAHNRS Fall Fest.
Kris Johnson, current Chair of the Department of Animal Sciences, visits with students at the 2015 CAHNRS Fall Fest.