Indianapolis, Indiana – Dr. Alicia Cecil, an assistant professor of biology at the University of Indianapolis, has been awarded the prestigious 2025 Academic Teaching Award by the Indiana Branch of the American Society for Microbiology (IBASM). This honor recognizes her outstanding contributions to teaching and her innovative approaches to fostering student learning in the field of microbiology.
The American Society for Microbiology, one of the largest and most influential professional organizations in life sciences, presents the Academic Teaching Award to educators who demonstrate exceptional teaching skills and dedication to their students. Dr. Cecil was presented with the award at the IBASM’s annual meeting, where she also delivered a presentation on the innovative strategies she and her colleagues in the UIndy Department of Biology have implemented to improve student engagement and learning outcomes.
Dr. Cecil’s work has been instrumental in shaping the educational experience of her students. One of her standout contributions is the creation of the Concept Enhancement Learning Lounge (CEL Lounge), an initiative that provides students with additional opportunities to interact with course material in a dynamic and hands-on environment. This student-centered approach encourages active learning, allowing students to explore concepts in greater depth outside the classroom.
“Being recognized by the Indiana Branch of ASM for my work is truly an honor,” Dr. Cecil shared after receiving the award. “What makes this award particularly meaningful is that it was students who nominated me. Their support and acknowledgment mean a lot, and I’m thrilled to be able to share our student-focused initiatives with my colleagues from other universities across the state.”
Since joining the Department of Biology in 2006, Dr. Cecil has made a lasting impact on students pursuing various fields within biology. She teaches a wide range of courses, including clinical and general microbiology, introductory cell biology, and biology for public health majors. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, she serves as a faculty advisor in the Ron and Laura Strain Honors College, further contributing to the academic success of her students.
Her recognition by IBASM underscores her commitment to advancing microbiology education and her ongoing efforts to ensure that students are not only learning but actively engaging with the material. Dr. Cecil’s teaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of creating an inclusive and interactive learning environment where students can develop a deeper understanding of complex biological concepts.
The Indiana Branch of the American Society for Microbiology praised Dr. Cecil for her dedication to improving student experiences in microbiology and for her continuous efforts to push the boundaries of traditional teaching methods. By integrating innovative strategies like the CEL Lounge and other student-centered initiatives, Dr. Cecil has proven herself to be a leader in the field of microbiology education.
Dr. Cecil’s recognition reflects her passion for teaching and her impact on the next generation of scientists. As she continues to inspire and mentor her students, her work stands as a model for educators in microbiology and beyond.
