Rebecca Lyons named University of Redlands Professor of the Year

The University of Redlands Mortar Board Honor Society has named Rebecca Lyons as Professor of the Year. Lyons, a chemistry professor in the College of Arts and Sciences, has been teaching at the University of Redlands for nine years.

“Being a teacher in the College of Arts and Sciences is a noble calling. It is noble to assist students in the liberating joy of discovering knowledge that restructures how they see the world. It is also noble to help students take the beginning steps in a profession that will provide lifelong satisfaction,” said Associate Dean of Student Engagement David Schrum.

The Professor of the Year distinction recognizes faculty members’ outstanding teaching abilities and important contributions to the University community. While the Mortar Board Honor Society facilitates the voting process, the nominations for the award are student-driven.

A graduate of University of Washington (B.S., biochemistry), the State University of New York College at Cortland (M.A., science education), and the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry (M.S., Ph.D., environmental chemistry), Lyons teaches nine courses in chemistry, including a May Term course in the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

“She works every day to not only ensure that her students are prepared for the rigor of graduate-level work in chemistry, medical school, and work in research fields, but also makes connections that keep her students feeling seen and loved,” said Associated Students of the University of Redlands President Jacob Miner ’20.

Throughout her time at the University, Lyons has mentored more than two dozen research students and co-authored a number of publications and presentations alongside students.

Chemistry Club President Jared Cellini ’20 spoke about how Lyons’ mentorship has enhanced his experience at the University of Redlands. Recalling a group hike that she led, he explained that her passion for science and the environment is felt by all of her students.

“This is such an amazing group of people to be a part of—I look around at my fellow educators and I’m honored to stand with you. More than anything, my students are amazing and I love them, and it’s really great when it’s reciprocated,” Lyons said.

This was the 62nd year that Mortar Board undergraduates honored a distinguished faculty member who embodies the group’s ideals of scholarship, leadership, and service.

Mortar Board began at the University of Redlands in 1943 as a women’s senior honorary group, known as W.E.B.S., Wisdom, Excellence, Belief, and Service. In 1955, it became recognized as an official chapter of the Mortar Board National Senior Honor Society, and, in 1975, membership was opened to both men and women.

This year’s Mortar Board finalists for Professor of the Year also included Mathematics and Computer Science Professor Joanna Bieri, Biology Professor Caryl Forristall, Theatre Arts Professor Trevor Norton, and Biology Professor Linda Silveira.