UIndy Announces 2026 Teacher of the Year Recipient and Nominees
The University of Indianapolis is pleased to announce this year’s Teacher of the Year recipient as Dr. Vince Bertram, assistant professor in the School of Business.
Dr. Vince Bertram approaches education not just as a profession, but as a profound responsibility rooted in his own life experiences. Having transitioned from a successful career in business and educational administration to full-time teaching, his pedagogy is deeply informed by his belief that educators can literally save lives just as his own teachers did for him. His teaching philosophy centers on mentoring leaders who are emotionally intelligent as well as developing a sense of integrity and equity in his interactions. He strikes a delicate balance between holding exceptionally high academic standards and providing unwavering relational support, operating with the belief that a student’s true potential can be realized when they know that they are not navigating their challenges alone.
At the heart of Dr. Bertram’s classroom is his mastery of the human element, characterized by deeply intentional hospitality. He begins every class by greeting students at the door by name and asking about their weekend athletic results or personal lives before seamlessly transitioning into rigorous leadership coaching. This focus on building authentic relationships creates a “brave space” characterized by psychological safety, where students feel comfortable taking risks, exploring their own solutions, and receiving constructive feedback. He understands that while students may eventually forget specific academic content, they will never forget how a teacher made them feel, and he prioritizes supporting each student as a whole human being.
Instructionally, Dr. Bertram is highly praised for his ability to bridge theoretical leadership concepts with practical, real-world application. He utilizes high-energy methods like the “Scenario-Review” loop to foster an iterative, engaging learning environment. Whether he is using a relatable basketball analogy to explain complex organizational dynamics, encouraging the forward-thinking use of modern tools like ChatGPT for professional emails, or bringing in elite guest speakers from the Federal Reserve and corporate C-suites, his curriculum undeniably prepares students for their future careers. Furthermore, his exceptional ability to think on his feet and validate student thought processes instills immense confidence during complex discussions.
The ultimate testament to Dr. Bertram’s effectiveness is the profound, sustained impact he has on his students well beyond graduation. Former students frequently cite him as the best professor they have ever had, praising his ability to instill critical thinking, academic confidence, and tangible career direction in just a single semester. He sets out with the goal of leaving students energized and wanting more time when the course concludes. By modeling empathy, resilience, and growth, Dr. Bertram ensures that his students leave his classroom having experienced true emotionally intelligent leadership, and that they are fully equipped to recognize, replicate, and expect it in the professional spaces they will soon inhabit.
There were many deserving nominees for Teacher of the Year this year. You can see those additional nominees below and help us recognize their positive contributions to the University and its students:
Driven by an infectious curiosity and a passion for research, Dr. Candice Burkett, assistant professor in the School of Psychology, creates an inspiring environment for her students to explore the pursuit of knowledge. Her deep investment in student research interests and her ability to provide high-level mentorship for those students and their projects are to be commended. Burkett fosters a supportive space where students feel comfortable challenging themselves and growing as scholars. Both in and out of the classroom, Dr. Burkett leaves a lasting impact on her students.
Dr. Lacey Davidson, assistant professor in the Department of Philosophy & Religion, shares a profound love for her discipline with her students, bringing philosophy to life through real-world ethical questions. She prioritizes students’ thinking and engagement by inviting them to apply high-level philosophical issues to current events and events in their daily lives. To ensure her classroom is accessible to all, she even authored her own textbook to keep costs low and engagement high. Dr. Davidson has the ability to modernize classic concepts with current examples, fostering a passionate environment where students are invited to interrogate ideas with joy and rigor.
Drawing from her background as a clinical music therapist, Amy Foley, associate professor of practice in the Department of Music, brings a unique blend of empathy and technical expertise to her teaching. She is recognized for her incredible flexibility and her commitment to building mutual respect and trust with her students. Foley works tirelessly to adapt her methods to meet the diverse needs of every learner, ensuring they feel supported and empowered to succeed. She scaffolds her students’ learning through many practice opportunities, leading her students to develop strong therapeutic practices that will serve them and their clients well.
Olya Mangusheva, assistant professor of practice in the School of Occupational Therapy, is a compassionate mentor who guides her graduate students through the transition into their professional careers with authenticity and vulnerability. She is known for her engaging demeanor and her ability to tie content to previous learning through creative methods like emotional storytelling and flashcards. She creates active learning environments in which students engage meaningfully with the course content. Mangusheva’s students view her as a professor, mentor, and friend who is deeply committed to their long-term growth and success.
Dr. Kathy Martin, professor in the Krannert School of Physical Therapy, combines high professional standards with a transparent and supportive teaching philosophy. By sharing her own clinical experiences—including the lessons learned from mistakes—she encourages her students to develop their own critical thinking and reflection abilities. Dr. Martin is known for her sensitivity in discussing difficult topics and her ability to foster a “safe space” where students feel both accountable and encouraged. She is able to hold students to rigorous expectations and provide the needed support for them to succeed.
Dr. Joan Martinez, assistant professor in the R.B. Annis School of Engineering, is celebrated for the joy and energy he brings to the classroom. He excels at finding innovative ways to connect with his learners, even using modern tools like TikTok to
meet them where they are and ensure that every student feels seen and supported in their journey. His classroom is a place of clear modeling, enthusiastic engagement, and expert organization, all designed to ensure that every student is able to be successful. Dr. Martinez goes out of his way to meet
the needs of his students and support them as they tackle challenging content and tasks, both in and outside of the classroom.
Dr. Amanda Miller, professor in the Department of Sociology, is an energetic, empathetic educator who transforms students from passive learners into active sociologists. Known for her interactive classes, she bridges theory and practice by connecting relatable current events to complex applications. She employs diverse instructional tools including movement activities, recall quizzes, and innovative tech like ChatGPT to help students master sociological theory. Balancing rigorous academic expectations with a supportive environment, Dr. Miller actively champions her students’ well-being, even advocating for resources like an on-campus social worker. Her blend of active learning, high standards, and genuine mentorship makes her a phenomenal Teacher of the Year candidate.
Dr. Cameron Powden, associate professor in the Department of Athletic Training, is an impactful educator who bridges textbook anatomy with real-world clinical practice. Through hands-on labs, technology, and real-time simulations, he trains adaptable clinicians prepared for the unpredictable nature of athletic sidelines. Profoundly student-centered, he recognizes students as individuals balancing life stressors, and he frequently adapts his methods and scheduling to support their well-being. While maintaining rigorous but fair academic expectations, Dr. Powden’s true passion is one-on-one mentorship and fostering a supportive culture. By guiding students through problem-solving, he builds enduring relationships, ensuring alumni always feel like lifelong Greyhounds who can rely on him long after graduation.
Dr. Toni Morris, associate professor in the School of Nursing, is a creative public health educator who designs high-impact, active learning experiences to prepare students for real-world challenges. Investing deeply in her students’ growth, she anticipates their questions and challenges them to spark critical “light bulb” moments. Dr. Morris pushes students beyond theory through transformative assignments, such as rigorous interdisciplinary disaster simulations and community transit exercises designed to confront stereotypes. By blending academic rigor with practical application, she builds her students’ clinical confidence and empathy. Her sustained mentorship frequently leads to co-authored publications, conference presentations, and lifelong professional success for her students.
Dr. Steve Zimmerly, associate professor in the Department of English, is an exceptional English Literature professor who balances academic rigor with the enthusiasm of a camp counselor, creating a classroom that feels like the “greatest book club ever.” A humble and quirky departmental favorite, he skillfully breaks down complex poetry and fosters critical thinking through structured methods, effective wait times, and student-led inquiry. Beyond his engaging lectures and skillful vocal delivery, Dr. Zimmerly’s legacy is defined by his genuine care and enduring mentorship. His profound personal impact shapes lives long after graduation, even preventing struggling students from dropping out, making him a highly worthy Teacher of the Year nominee.
