UWL Microbiology Professor Zachariah Tritz Wins Eagle Teaching Excellence Award

The pursuit of Teaching Excellence is a continuous journey at universities worldwide. At UW-La Crosse, this dedication is evident in the exceptional instructors who shape the lives of students both within and beyond the classroom walls.

This year, the Provost Office at UWL received an overwhelming number of nominations from eager students seeking to recognize their most admired faculty members. From this pool of nominations, a distinguished university committee carefully selected six outstanding educators to receive the coveted 2025 Eagle Teaching Excellence Awards. These awards serve as a testament to the profound impact these instructors have on their students' academic and personal growth.

Connecting with Students

One of the key recipients of this prestigious award is Zachariah Tritz, a dedicated member of the Microbiology Department at UWL. Dr. Tritz's passion for education shines through in his diverse range of courses, including immunology labs and lectures, as well as First Year Seminar and the Global Impacts of Infectious Disease. His commitment to fostering a stimulating learning environment is evident in the way he seamlessly blends theoretical knowledge with practical applications, igniting students' curiosity and enthusiasm for scientific exploration.

Prior to joining UWL, Dr. Tritz honed his research skills as a Ph.D. student at Mayo Clinic, where he worked under the guidance of Dr. Aaron Johnson, specializing in immunotherapies for brain cancers. This valuable research experience has undoubtedly enriched his teaching, enabling him to provide students with firsthand insights into cutting-edge advancements in the field.

The Joy of Science Communication

Dr. Tritz's favorite aspect of teaching stems from the joy of science communication— witnessing students' excitement and engagement with the subject matter is truly rewarding. He recognizes that immunology is a captivating field, and his enthusiasm is contagious, inspiring students to delve deeper into the intricacies of the immune system. Beyond the academic realm, Dr. Tritz cherishes the connections he builds with his students. He values UWL's vibrant student population and considers it a privilege to learn from his trainees as much as they learn from him.

Through initiatives that prioritize Student Connections and cultivate a supportive learning community, UW-La Crosse empowers its educators to make a lasting impact on the lives of their students. By recognizing and celebrating Teaching Excellence, the university fosters an environment where academic growth and personal development flourish hand in hand.