The Jean Brierley Award for Excellence in Teaching, 2022
Kinesiology
Karen Collins is a selfless educator who is extraordinarily committed to teaching, the personal and professional development of her students and colleagues, and service to her university and profession. She puts students in the role of active learners and challenges them to question their own beliefs and to see the viewpoints of others. She demands effort, engagement, organization and professionalism as any good coach, teacher or supervisor should.
Collins received the College of Health and Human Services’ Excellence in Teaching Award in 2010, served as faculty fellow for teaching, learning and assessment from 2015 to 2017, and chaired the department of kinesiology from 2017 to 2020, where she nurtured a positive and productive work environment. Since 2012, she has been the director of the leadership development program that helps UNH student-athletes build leadership skills and teaches coaches to model behaviors that promote positive athlete development. Collins’ research has focused on the science of learning in coaching education, leadership in female sports and coaching social justice life skills through sport.
Collins' commitment, dedication and passion are evident by the impact she has had on her students.
“I attribute my love of learning, my passion for mentoring others and my desire to constantly discuss new trends in the world of sport to Doc Collins, one of the strongest female role models I have had in my life,” one student wrote.
Another added, “Karen was a major influence on who I am today and my growth as a student. She always pushes her students to reach their fullest capabilities and never allows them to settle for less than their best.”
About this Award
The Jean Brierley Award for Excellence in Teaching recognizes excellence in teaching by a faculty member over the course of a long-term distinguished career at UNH. A bequest from the estate of Jean Brierley, Class of 1930, established this award. Professor Brierley established the endowed fund in 1973 to recognize teaching in any field or discipline at UNH. The recipient will give a presentation at an annual event sponsored by the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning to help celebrate and promote good teaching. UNH benefits-eligible faculty members are eligible, except those who have received this award within the last five years.
