Elmhurst University has presented the 2026 President’s Award for Excellence in Teaching to Crystal Paunan and Josh Rodriguez, two faculty members recognized by students for creating innovative, engaging classes that students are eager to attend.
Paunan, of St. Charles, Ill., is program director of the Master of Science in Nursing and Doctor of Nursing Practice programs. Rodriguez, of Elmhurst, Ill., is associate professor of music theory and composition, as well as an accomplished professional composer.
The award recognizes exemplary teaching and contributions to the education of Elmhurst students. Recipients embody Elmhurst University’s commitment to academic excellence, as reflected both in teaching and in student learning and success. Students nominate faculty members for the award and support their nominations with written and video testimonials; members of the Faculty Development Committee make the final decision.
Crystal Paunan, who holds a doctorate in nursing practice, has taught at Elmhurst since 2024. In nominating her, students describe “Dr. P” as engaging, constructive and creative. They applaud her eagerness to go beyond traditional, lecture-based instruction and “lay the groundwork for innovation in assignments,” recognizing that students learn in a variety of ways. They also appreciate the “culture of safety and comfort” she creates, and that they have been given the tools “to effectively handle an ever-changing healthcare world.”
Paunen says she is humbled by her students’ words, noting that “these busy graduate students, who are juggling full-time nursing careers, families and school, took time out of their schedules to go through the nomination process.”
She also feels validated. “I have been in nursing education for almost 20 years, and throughout that time, I have really focused on creating an environment where students feel like they belong and have the support they need to thrive,” she says. “It means a lot to know that students can feel the time, care and attention that goes into creating their learning experience.”
Josh Rodriguez, Ph.D., has taught at Elmhurst since 2023. Students who nominated him say that he introduces students to a variety of musical experiences by bringing in professional musicians and organizing concerts outside class hours. But, they say, his greatest strength is his ability to go above and beyond to support the needs of each student, “making everyone feel seen and heard; he is a teacher that the students want to show up for.”
“From helping students with homework to being there for them on a hard day, Dr. Rodriguez truly has a heart of gold. He treats his students like they can accomplish anything, and gives us the support we need to succeed. We are not just students to him, but people, with our own talents and gifts to contribute to the world.”
Rodriguez says he is motivated and deeply moved by his students’ observations, calling them a “wonderful affirmation” of the time and care he puts into his work with students, and his commitment to carrying out the University’s mission.
“Using a metaphor from The Lord of the Rings, I certainly hope to cultivate a courageous ‘fellowship’ each semester and help each member toward ‘meaningful and ethical contributions to a diverse and global society,’” he says.