Excellence in Teaching Award

The Excellence in Teaching Award at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, established in 1969, honors exceptional dedication, effort, and exemplary conduct in fulfilling the University’s primary mission: educating all students. Outstanding and committed educators are a university's greatest strength. At UNO, we are fortunate to have faculty whose contributions deserve special recognition.

Michele Demarais, Ph.D. Department of Religious Studies College of Arts and Sciences

Michele Desmarais, an associate professor in the Department of Religious Studies and a teaching faculty member in the Native American Studies program, has shaped both academic and interdisciplinary initiatives at UNO. Dr. Desmarais is a Métis, Dakota, and European poet and scholar from Canada. Her contributions reflect a passion for teaching and a visionary approach to education that leaves a lasting impact on students, colleagues, and academic programs.

Dr. Desmarais was instrumental in the creation of the Medical Humanities Minor, which has since grown into a major, attracting students from diverse academic backgrounds. By embedding Indigenous perspectives into the curriculum, she enriched the program, offering students a holistic and inclusive approach to understanding healthcare. Dr. Desmarais’ leadership in Medical Humanities expanded educational opportunities for students and fostered critical conversations about healthcare, ethics, and Indigenous perspectives.

Dr. Desmarais is also recognized for her advocacy and scholarship in the field of Mad Studies, which centers on the experiences of people with mental illness. Using her lived experiences of mental illness and intergenerational trauma, rooted in Canada’s Indian Residential Schools, she has captivated her audience during presentations on the origin and evolution of Mad Studies. Students describe the presentation as ‘brilliant,’ moving,’ and ‘brave.’ Dr. Desmarais’ willingness to share her experiences inspires students to explore new ways of thinking about mental health and healthcare. One student even commented, “After the conclusion of the lecture, I immediately went and signed up for one of Dr. Desmarais' classes. Her vulnerability and transparency in her journey was nothing short of admirable.”

Throughout her career, Dr. Desmarais’ enthusiasm for teaching has been a defining feature of her work. A first-generation student herself, the joy she brings to the classroom is apparent to her students and colleagues. Her integration of Indigenous perspectives into the curriculum, her passion for mental health advocacy, and her commitment to student mentorship have set her apart as an influential and compassionate educator. The admiration for her teaching extends beyond UNO, showing the wide-ranging influence of her work.

Nomination Information

Download the Excellence in Teaching Award nomination criteria and forms

Most Recent Excellence in Teaching Award Recipients

View the complete list of previous award recipients