San Juan College Professor of Biology Dr. Veronica Evans was honored with the 2019 Lou and Ruth Allison Faculty Excellence Award during San Juan College graduation ceremonies in May. Dr. Toni Hopper Pendergrass, San Juan College president, and Gayle Dean, executive director of the San Juan College Foundation, presented the award.

Evans has taught Biology in the School of Science, Math and Engineering at San Juan College since 2006. She is known for never settling for anything but the best for her students. She redesigned her courses with a focus on helping students improve their study habits. Evans is actively involved in student research, constantly striving to increase student interest in scientific exploration. She mentors students throughout the academic year and assists them with summer research projects. She also generously gives of her time by serving as a judge for high school, district and Regional Science and Engineering fairs.

“Our Allison award winner embraces and exemplifies each and every one of our San Juan College values,” says Gayle Dean, executive director of the San Juan College Foundation. “It is well known that her classes are difficult, she has high expectations and sets the bar high for students – yet her classes fill up quickly and have long waiting lists.”

“Collaborating with colleagues across campus, she quietly does what is needed to help her peers, students and San Juan College,” Dean continues. “Her dedication to education and helping students is inspiring to those who have the privilege of working with her.”

The Allison Award, one of the most prestigious given to a faculty member at San Juan College, carries with it a $2,000 stipend. The award, which is administered through the San Juan College Foundation, was established in 1986 by Ruth and the late Lou Allison, of Farmington, to honor faculty members who demonstrate a commitment to both the student and an academic discipline.