Dr. Lisa Ellis Named 2025–2026 Opal Goolsby Professor of the Year

Congratulations to Dr. Lisa Ellis on being named the 2025-2026 Opal Goolsby Professor of the Year - HCU's highest recognition for teaching excellence.

The Opal Goolsby Outstanding Teaching Award is a traditional recognition of the very best teaching on the HCU campus in recognition of Opal Goolsby, a legendary faculty member who was a member of the original faculty in 1963 at then, Houston Baptist College. and taught English and French. She was a generous and selfless teacher, who loved life and demanded the best of her students while endlessly offering them her encouragement and assistance.

Each spring, HCU's Student Government Association conducts nominations for faculty representatives from each college and school. A selection committee consisting of representatives from Student Government Association, the faculty Professional Development Committee and the Provost's Office, examine the record of accomplishment for each nominee and carefully select the faculty member who best represents the ideals of outstanding teaching.

During this year's awards celebration, Dr. Stanley Napper, HCU Provost & Vice President of Academic Affairs, announced Dr. Ellis' selection.

"Your colleagues and students recognize your exemplary contributions to HCU in and out of the classroom," said Dr. Napper.

Dr. Ellis serves as Associate Professor of Biology in HCU's College of Science and Engineering and coordinates the Biology and Biochemistry & Molecular Biology programs. Known for her student-centered teaching approach, she teaches courses ranging from introductory biology to advanced genetics and neuroscience, with a focus on helping students develop critical thinking and metacognitive learning skills.

In addition to her teaching, Dr. Ellis serves as Chair of HCU's Institutional Review Board and has played a key role in the University's Quality Enhancement Plan, including helping design Mission: Metacognition. She is also actively involved in mentoring student researchers and advising student-athletes.

Her commitment to student success, scholarship and academic leadership continues the legacy of outstanding teaching represented by this distinguished award

Other finalists for this year's award included Dr. Jazmine Highsmith, Dr. Mary White, Dr. Austin Freeman, Dr. Chen Zhao and Dr. Kevin Wilkinson, Jr., who were also recognized for their teaching excellence.