Professor Pascale LaFountain Awarded First Montclair Presidential Excellence Award for Teaching

Pascale LaFountain, Associate Professor, is driven by the “pay-it-forward” mindset and the deep belief that every student can succeed and make an impact on the world if given the opportunity. She has been described as “bringing remarkable creativity to the classroom” and meeting students where they are. Thanks to an annual $15,000 grant secured from the Kade Foundation for German Studies, she has been able to support 10 students annually for their summer study abroad. Beyond teaching, she actively engages in the Montclair community through the SPARK program, community garden, collaborations with the Community Engagement Office and Office for Faculty Excellence, and chairs the University Senate’s Student Affairs Council.

On being recognized by the University, LaFountain shares, “It is the greatest honor to be recognized for my teaching, which I could not do without the deep diversity and cultural curiosity our students bring to class every day. Alongside this Presidential Excellence Award, the greatest recognition is seeing my students regularly experience exceptional success on a national and international level. I am particularly proud to see our students show how ready they are to present their research at national conferences, win international scholarships, and thrive in fully funded graduate programs.”

On May 19, the University will honor its employees on the inaugural Red Hawk Recognition Day. The goal of this day is to thank and recognize each other for our commitment to our students and our mission. Read about the other employees who will be celebrated on Red Hawk Recognition Day.