Each year the Southern States Communication Association awards a single professor with the John I. Sisco Excellence in Teaching Award, acknowledging the awardees dedication to their career in teaching communication. The 2021 awardee is UGA Department of Communication Studies' Dr. Kristi Schaller, a lecturer at UGA since 2005. In addition to her experience teaching a wide variety of courses for the department, Dr. Schaller is also being recognized for her publications in student-centered learning materials and presentations at conferences on student instruction and pedagogical practices. Dr. Schaller's skill and enthusiasm for teaching are recognized by both her students and colleagues within the Communication Studies Department. One of her former students wrote: “Dr. Schaller is a rare breed. I have not come across many professors in my 10 years as a student in academia who give so much of themselves to their students. She continuously strives to make the classroom experience for each of her students the best and most fulfilling learning environment. She embraces diversity of thought and experience, demonstrating her own vulnerabilities and strengths in the classroom.” Her peers have also named her as an invaluable colleague, recognizing her work and generosity in helping graduate students and instructors to adapt to COVID and stated that "I can think of no person more deserving of recognition by the SSCA John I. Sisco Award." Congratulations, Dr. Schaller!
