A pair of UHart educators are recipients of the Sustained Excellence in Teaching Award for Part-Time Faculty, which recognizes outstanding contributions to teaching and learning. They are Lisabeth Miller (Hartt) and Maureen Sidman (Hillyer).
The awards were presented at UHart’s spring semester kickoff in Millard Auditorium on January 29.
Lisabeth Miller, who sits on the voice faculty at the Hartt School, is a Hartt alumna who is proud to be back at her academic home. In addition to her role as an educator, she conducts the chamber choir at the New England Music Camp and is the artistic director of the Hartford Opera Theater. “Dr. Miller’s teaching philosophy reflects a deep dedication to her students’ development, not only as musicians, but as well-rounded individuals,” says Samuel Martin, director of vocal studies at Hartt. “Her approach empowers students to think independently and develop their unique artistic voices.” Miller has written about her own philosophy, saying that every voice—and every person—is unique, and that all of a singer’s life experience informs his or her ability to utilize their instrument and perform at the highest level.
Maureen Sidman, adjunct instructor in speech for Hillyer College, has taught at UHart for 11 years in several specialties, including English composition, communication, and effective speech. Her teaching philosophy, reflective of the Socratic Method, utilizes questions and responses in an exceedingly vibrant way that keeps students fully engaged in the material being discussed. “It isn’t hard to find ample evidence of Maureen’s success connecting with students. They are comfortable with her and willing to express themselves, even when their views can be controversial or in conflict with the overall theme of the lecture,” says Michael Robinson, professor of history and chair of the Department of Humanities at Hillyer College. “Her assignments are always clearly expressed and exceptionally balanced.”