Brynn Welch, Ph.D.Brynn Welch, Ph.D., philosophy professor at the University of Alabama at Birmingham College of Arts and Sciences, has been awarded the 2024 David W. Concepción Prize for Excellence in Philosophy Teaching, recognizing profound impact of her teaching initiatives on student learning.
“I am hoping the award will bring about more opportunities to think and talk about teaching, which is one of my favorite things to do,” Welch said. “I am excited to continue introducing students to philosophy with the same rigor while working on books and other initiatives to support it. Teaching is close to my heart –– my father was a teacher, and I am honored to carry his legacy. I want my daughters to be as proud of my work as I am of my dad’s.”
The award honors Welch’s philosophy of teaching, which emphasizes empowering students and making philosophy accessible to all. Her work, which includes writing accessible books on teaching philosophy, has helped bridge the gap between complex philosophical concepts and students’ everyday experiences.
“Students’ thoughts, reflections and questions matter to me because I am in the process of doing philosophy with them,” Welch said. “There is little investment in teaching as compared to research, and the current, one-size-fits-all ways seem inadequate –– my goal with teaching materials is to have accessible tips from brilliant teachers that people can access anywhere, anytime to find good ideas in easier-to-understand language.”
The David W. Concepción Prize is awarded annually by the American Philosophical Association, the American Association of Philosophy Teachers and the Teaching Philosophy Association. Welch’s recognition comes after a rigorous, two-round selection process that involved nominations, submission of a CV and personal statement, and letters of support from colleagues and students.