Thomas D. Raedeke
East Carolina University
East Carolina University's 2010 nominee for the Excellence in Teaching Award is Dr. Tom Raedeke, sports psychologist and associate professor in the College of Health and Human Performance. Dr. Raedeke earned his BA in Psychology (Summa Cum Laude) from Concordia College, his MS in Physical Education with a major in Sport Psychology from the University of Idaho, and his PhD. in Exercise and Movement Science with a major in Social Psychology of Sport and Exercise and a minor in Integrated Exercise Science from the University of Oregon. He joined the ECU Department of Exercise and Sport Science in 1998 where he excels in teaching and mentoring undergraduate and graduate students; conducting grant supported research; publishing regularly; and serving his profession, the university, and the corn m unity.
"Tom is not a status quo teacher," a colleague notes, "he readily understands that teaching is a dynamic process." Another calls him, "the consummate teacher" who believes in the importance of "structuring the learning environment to be more than a spectator sport." Dr. Raedeke is passionate about engaging students. He says, "we as teachers bring a substantial knowledge base to the class, but, more importantly, underlying that a rich interest in the topics we are teaching. To spark student interest, we need to share our passion and highlight why we find the information so intriguing . . not just the "what" (the content), but also the "so what" (the importance) and the "now what" (the application of course concepts and what remains unknown regarding the issues discussed." Dr. Raedeke constantly analyzes, reflects, and revises to provide the very best instruction. His dean praises his "passion . . . that is evident in all aspects of his work, especially his teaching [wherej. .. he exemplifies the finest tradition of student-oriented instruction." Students consistently praise him as a passionate, caring, and inspiring teacher who is demanding and supportive and who engages his students in research and civic engagement. More than 20 of Dr. Raedeke's publications have involved students as co-authors. A former student describes this outstanding professor best. Dr. Raedeke, she says, "presents the information as neutrally as possible, prompts discussion and reflection among the students, and then plays the master Devil's Advocate as he challenges his students to not just decide on what they believe, but to know why they stand by it. He treats his students with the highest respect, engaging them as colleagues in discussion and debates, sharing his beliefs after the students have decided their individual stands. He not only teaches them the information, but also instills in them a passion for the subject and a commitment to the pursuit of learning."
Among Dr. Raedeke's previous teaching awards are the UNC Board of Governors Distinguished Professor for Teaching Award (2007), ECU Alumni Association Award for Outstanding Teaching (2006), ECU Scholar-Teacher Award (2005), and School of Health and Human Performance Teacher of the Year Award (2001). He is most deserving of this recognition.