Gayle Andrews named to prestigious Meigs professorship

Professor and graduate coordinator Gayle Andrews was recently named one of three Josiah Meigs Distinguished Teaching Professors, UGA’s highest recognition for excellence in instruction at the undergraduate and graduate level.

The Meigs Professorship reflects the University’s commitment to excellence in teaching, the value placed on student learning experiences, and the central role instruction plays in the University’s mission.

“Being named a Meigs Distinguished Teaching Professor is deeply humbling and profoundly meaningful,” said Andrews. “This recognition affirms what I have long believed: that teaching is a transformative force—perhaps especially in the middle grades, where young adolescents are full of promise and possibility.”

Andrews’ teaching philosophy is grounded in the belief that education is a transformative force. Her students describe her as a mentor who challenges them not only to understand course content, but also to apply it in ways that meaningfully contribute to society.

“Preparing educators to serve these students with empathy, equity, and intellectual care has been the heart of my work,” said Andrews. “I share this honor with the incredible students and colleagues who have shaped my journey—those who challenge, inspire, and remind me daily of the power of education to create substantive positive change in the lives of individuals, families, and communities.”

Andrews also helped incorporate service-learning into the College’s middle grades education program, which encourages students to apply academic theories to practical, community-based solutions.

“Throughout her 23-year career at UGA, Andrews has exemplified the highest standards of teaching excellence, intellectual leadership, and dedication to both her students and the broader educational community,” said dean Denise A. Spangler. “Her work is not only transformative in the classroom, but also impactful on a national scale, contributing to the advancement of middle grades education.”

Sponsored by the Office of the Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost, the professorship includes a permanent salary increase of $6,000 and a one-time discretionary fund of $1,000. Meigs Professors are senior faculty members who are nominated by their school or college and chosen by a committee consisting of 12 faculty members, two undergraduate students, and one graduate student.

For more information about the Meigs professorship, visit UGA Today.