Aaron Peterson honored with the 2023 University Teaching Award

Aaron Peterson is being honored with the 2023 University Teaching Award. Peterson is an associate professor of instruction in the department of mathematics in the Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences. He received his Ph.D. in mathematics from the University of Wisconsin, Madison.

“Driven by a commitment to teach at the highest levels, this year’s University Teaching Award honorees have greatly enhanced our students’ learning experiences,” said Provost Kathleen Hagerty. “These awards recognize the impact of these efforts for our students as they prepare for success in dynamic fields of work.”

Peterson aims to create a vibrant mathematical community in his classes by “empowering students to reason through problems,” his nomination states. Peterson explains that “each of my courses tells a compelling mathematical story that frames learning objectives as aspects of a coherent and aesthetically pleasing system of ideas.” In this way, students are able to see course content as an “intellectual whole rather than a sequence of disparate topics.” This approach resonates strongly with Peterson’s students. One former student explains that Peterson helps students develop a complete understanding of the concepts at hand as they integrate new ideas into their existing frameworks.

Peterson is committed to developing an inclusive learning environment. He structures his classes and assignments to promote positive learning outcomes, sharing detailed and transparent notes with students, affirming that questions and mistakes are valuable, and including opportunities for both individual and group problem solving sessions. His chair states that Peterson “has a gift for explaining difficult mathematical concepts in ways that make mathematics accessible to all his students.” Peterson’s students share the importance of this approach in the development of their mathematical identities. One wrote that Peterson “established a space in which I knew my contributions and questions were valued,” while another emphasized that “through Peterson’s example, students learn how to create a safe atmosphere in which any and all questions can be asked.”

The recipients of the 2023 University Teaching Awards were nominated by the deans of the schools or colleges in which they have principal appointments. Honorees were selected by a committee chaired by the provost and made up of senior faculty members, University administrators, the President of the Alumnae of Northwestern University and a student representative.

The award includes a salary stipend for the next three years as well as funds for professional development. The term begins at the start of the 2023-2024 academic year.

Scheduled for Tuesday, May 23, in Guild Lounge on the Evanston campus, the awards ceremony also will be livestreamed.