The UAB College of Arts and Sciences congratulates Drs. Wendy Gunther Canada and Erika Hille Rinker on being named as this year’s recipients of the Provost’s Awards for Faculty Excellence. Their mentorship is vital to providing our students with the robust, hands-on learning experiences that lead to success as undergraduates and in future careers.

Dr. Gunther-Canada, chair of the Department of Government, was recognized for her efforts to promote and encourage undergraduate research. Dr. Rinker of the Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures was recognized for her efforts to engage students in education abroad opportunities.

The awards are based on outstanding accomplishments in teaching and mentoring as demonstrated by any or all of the following:

• Actively and effectively guide students’ research, creative, and service projects, and personal development.
• Establish clear expectations and maintain high standards for academic performance.
• Inspire and assist undergraduates in developing their own scholarly profiles and in disseminating the results of their work as appropriate (e.g., meetings, conferences, committees, performances, publications, UAB Expo).
• Actively prepare students for success in applications to graduate and professional schools or professional careers.

Congratulations to our faculty!


Dr. Rinker and Dr. Gunther Canada receive their awards from Suzanne Austin, Senior Vice Provost.