While escorted to her ‘throne’ on The Motley stage, a student presented Mary Hatcher-Skeers with a bright yellow “Professor of the Year” sash as an appreciative crowd cheered her on.
“I’m surprised, honored and super grateful,” said Professor of Chemistry Hatcher-Skeers of the unexpected honor.
One by one, students approached a nearby microphone to express their gratitude for her commitment and encouraging words.
“You’ve always believed in me,” said Faye Jones ’15, who majored in chemistry and has taken Hatcher-Skeers’ classes.
“A lot of students of color aren’t encouraged to go into the sciences, but you helped me stay during the hardest classes,” said first-year Lina Mihret ’18.
Each spring, students vote for their favorite “Professor of the Year.” Scripps Associated Students (SAS) announces the name of the professor at a festive gathering at The Motley after tallying all votes.
“Mary is one of the most enthusiastic people I have ever met. Chemistry is not my passion in life, but after three hours with her in a lab, I was almost convinced that it was,” said Anna Cechony ’17, SAS Faculty and Staff Relations Chair.
Students praised Hatcher-Skeers for her work supporting first-generation students. Hatcher-Skeers is the faculty liaison for the First-Generation @ Scripps program.
“She’s one of the best professors I’ve ever had,” said Jones, who requested that Hatcher-Skeers serve as her thesis advisor. “She’s so incredibly encouraging. She expects the best from me. She’s wonderful.”