The University of Houston-Downtown recognized faculty whose work is advancing student success, strengthening shared governance, and contributing to research and community impact at its April 14 Faculty Awards Ceremony. Honorees were recognized across teaching, scholarship, and service for outcomes that shape both the student experience and the broader communities UHD serves.
President Loren Blanchard recognized Dr. Paul Mandel, Professor of History, Humanities, and Languages, for his role in helping establish UHD’s inaugural Faculty Council shared governance structure, strengthening faculty representation and institutional decision-making.
The following award recipients represent faculty excellence across core areas of impact:
Outstanding Adjunct
Zoe Smith, Adjunct Faculty, Management
Outstanding Lecturer/Clinical Faculty
Bridget Mueller, Senior Lecturer, Arts and Communication
Excellence in Scholarly and Creative Activity
Dr. Shahnaz Savani, Assistant Professor, Criminal Justice and Social Work
Excellence in Service
Dr. Timothy Redl, Professor, Mathematics and Statistics
Excellence in Teaching
Dr. Ayden Adler, Associate Professor, Arts and Communication
If you’d like more on all those recognized at the event, you can view the full Faculty Awards program.

