Engineering faculty honored for outstanding teaching
The NDSU College of Engineering has recognized two faculty members and a graduate student for their outstanding work in the classroom.
Yan Zhang, an associate professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, was named the 2026 Schoessow Excellence in Teaching Award winner.
Since joining NDSU in 2015, Zhang’s teaching record is consistently outstanding. His students repeatedly highlight his ability to make complex material accessible and engaging, often noting his clear explanations, real-world applications and supportive classroom environment. He’s also credited with continually refining his courses by incorporating interactive conceptual quizzes, multimedia tools and redesigned content to keep students actively involved in the learning process.
Beyond the classroom, Zhang has demonstrated an equally strong commitment to mentorship. Guiding senior design projects, mentoring student clubs and supporting undergraduate researchers.
The 2026 Schoessow Early Career Excellence in Teaching Award was presented to Diana Lopez Soto.
Lopez, an assistant professor in the Department of Industrial and Manufacturing Systems Engineering, joined NDSU in 2022. She teaches across a broad range of core undergraduate courses and graduate courses and has quickly become one of the most effective and well-regarded teachers in the department.
Her teaching is characterized by active, hands-on learning experiences that encourages students to engage directly with the material rather than observe it passively. Students consistently describe her courses as well structured, practically grounded and directly relevant to their careers.
Lopez is also actively involved in the College of Engineering’s outreach efforts. She developed an activity introducing high-school students to industrial engineering through a hands-on competition. The “Efficiency Showdown” has been used as part of events on campus and in area high schools.
The College of Engineering also recognized the role graduate students play in advancing NDSU’s student-focused mission.
M Mishkatur Rahman, a doctoral student in the Department of Industrial and Manufacturing Systems Engineering, was named the Schoessow Graduate Teaching Assistant of the Year for his passion for teaching and commitment to student growth. Students praise Rahman’s in-class examples, focus on hands-on learning, and willingness to offer help beyond regular hours.
Zhang, Lopez and Rahman will be honored at the College of Engineering’s Scholarship and Awards Reception on Nov. 5.