September Innovation in Teaching Award selected
Justin Benna was recognized for advancing excellence in teaching through creativity, collaboration, and meaningful student engagement.
The NDSU Office of Teaching and Learning has named Justin Benna the recipient of its September Innovation in Teaching Award, recognizing his creative and compassionate approach to preparing future educators.
Benna, an assistant professor in NDSU’s School of Education, was selected for his “ethic of care” in teaching, a style that emphasizes empathy, student-centered learning and real-world application.
The Innovation in Teaching Award is presented monthly by the Office of Teaching and Learning to honor faculty who use innovative methods to enhance student learning at NDSU. Recipients are recognized for advancing excellence in teaching through creativity, collaboration, and meaningful student engagement.
Drawing on his background as a school administrator, Benna connects course material to real-world challenges faced by educators and school leaders.
Benna joined NDSU in 2020 with a passion for helping future educators succeed not only in their coursework but also in their professional lives. His teaching philosophy centers on care, reflection and growth, values that align with NDSU’s commitment to preparing graduates to serve their communities and advance the teaching profession.
By honoring educators like Benna, the Office of Teaching and Learning reinforces NDSU’s broader vision of excellence in education, a vision that looks toward the horizon, encouraging innovation, compassion and continuous improvement in every classroom.