Each year since 1966, the University of Minnesota has celebrated a select group of faculty members for their exceptional contributions to undergraduate education. This prestigious recognition is awarded to outstanding individuals nominated by colleges in their effort to acknowledge excellence in undergraduate teaching.
“For me, teaching is about transformation,” said Meland. "I want students to be transformed by American Indian Studies. I want to transform their ability to see, hear, and understand Native intellectual and creative expression; I want to transform the way they think about Native experience; and I want them to experience these transformations by honing their skills as critical thinkers and creative writers. [This] award means a lot to me in terms of recognition from my peers and colleagues as concerns my contribution to the university’s mission to educate students. More important than personal recognition, I also hope this award acts as recognition of the important work being done for the university by American Indian Studies scholars, teachers, and students in light of 2023’s Truth report.”
The UMAA awards $50,000 annually to the recipients of the Horace T. Morse award – these funds are used to further their college research initiatives.