Jason Ritchie Named UM Stefani-Miller Chair for Teaching Excellence

Oxford, Mississippi – Associate Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry at the University of Mississippi, Jason Ritchie, has been recently honored with the Doctors Andrew Stefani and Eldon Miller Memorial Chair for STEM Teaching and Research. Ritchie, who is renowned for his exceptional commitment to teaching, is the second faculty member to receive this esteemed position.

Memorial Chair Honoring Contributions in Chemistry and Mathematics Fields

This chair position came about in 2019, thanks to a generous $1.5 million gift by Dr. Rhett Atkinson and his wife, Elaine. The endowment is an homage to Stefani and Miller, both former respected professors and chairs of Chemistry and Mathematics respectively, and their significant contributions to their disciplines.

New Teaching Techniques and Student-Centric Active Learning

An inspiring force for over two decades in the department, Ritchie aims to leverage the chair’s resources for the creation of innovative teaching materials and activities. He is an avid advocate of active learning and seeks to facilitate its widespread implementation across the campus. “I’m really thrilled by this recognition,” Ritchie said, “And I am eager about the opportunities for sharing my methodology with fellow faculty members interested in active learning.”

A Legacy of Exceptional Teaching and Student Engagement

Ritchie’s peers respect him for his dedication and teaching methodology which consistently receives praise from his students. “Jason has been one of our department’s best-regarded teachers for over 20 years,” said Daniell Mattern, the inaugural recipient of the award in 2022. She also highlighted Ritchie’s efforts to personalize his teaching by learning each student’s name as one of his significant strengths.

Recognition From Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning

Joshua Eyler, director of the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning, commended Ritchie for his dedication to students’ learning. “His commitment to and passion for education alone make him incredibly deserving of this prestigious honor,” Eyler said.

Contributions Towards the Stefani and Miller Memorial Chair Endowment

The Doctors Andrew Stefani and Eldon Miller Memorial Chair for STEM Teaching and Research Endowment invites gifts from individuals or organizations to support the initiative. Contributions can be made via check—with the endowment noted in the memo line—to the University of Mississippi Foundation or through an online platform.