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Dr. Zhifo Guo

Awarded by Reaud Honors College students in special recognition of their favorite honors professor of the academic year

2024-2025

Dr. Zhifo Guo (Assistant Professor of Organic Chemistry) is a research mentor to numerous RHC students, including Sergio Mendez, who presented the award on behalf of the Honors Student Association.

“Dr. Guo not only helped me grow in my academic career, but he ignited a passion in me with a gateway into research. He is the main reason I became president of LURA to further inspire more students to pursue research in every major," Mendez said. 

Sharing what makes a professor great: "From my experience, it is patience, communication, and most importantly seeing the potential in their students and helping them fulfill it."

During his first two years at LU, Mendez studied under Dr. Guo in Gen Chem 1 and Organic Chemistry 2. "While in his class, he asked me if I was interested in pursuing research, and I think from that moment on, I learned that I can be successful because he saw something in me that I never did," Mendez said. "Imposter Syndrome is real for pre-medicine students, especially for me as a First Gen, but when a distinguished professor recognizes your perseverance, dedication, and believes in your success, all those fears come crashing down."

He added, "As a First Generation college student, I never fathomed the idea of research and most definitely I never anticipated being blessed with the opportunity to say I have a research article in a journal."

"Thank you for seeing my potential," Mendez concluded, "and for always allowing students to go in to ask questions even outside of your office hours."

Dr. Ashwini Kucknoor

Awarded by Reaud Honors College students in special recognition of their favorite honors professor of the academic year

2023-2024

Dr. Ashwini Kucknoor (Associate Professor of Biology), the first recipient of the David J. Beck Teaching Excellence Award, is a research mentor to numerous RHC students, including Jennyfer Zarate, whose research accomplishments were also honored. Dr. Kucknoor was presented her award by incoming HSA President Rima Shaaban, on behalf of her honors peers.

“Dr. Kucknoor's teaching style is truly captivating. She spins her lectures into stories, weaving in real-life examples that make each lesson relevant and engaging. This approach not only deepened my understanding of microbiology but also sparked a genuine passion for the subject. One remarkable memory was our honors project, where Dr. Kucknoor challenged us to create a webpage to explore and discuss the relationship of equity and microbiology, allowing us to foster critical thinking and collaboration.   

“Driven by my love for her class, I sought the opportunity to conduct research with Dr. Kucknoor. In the research setting, she mentored me, guiding me through the research process, and entrusting me with my own project. Her dedication to my growth was evident as she provided invaluable skills and support until I achieved successful results and was able to present my findings at two conferences.    

“A testament to Dr. Kucknoor's commitment to her students was our recent experience at the American Society of Microbiology Texas Branch conference in Cedar Hill. Despite the 4 am departure and late-night return at 12 am the next day, Dr. Kucknoor ensured that we had every opportunity to showcase our work and make the most out of the experience. This selfless act encapsulates her nature of putting her students first and going above and beyond to see them succeed.”