Mun Y. Choi, PhD, President | University of Missouri
Mun Y. Choi, PhD, President | University of Missouri
Mun Choi, president of the University of Missouri, Matthew Martens, interim provost and executive vice chancellor for academic affairs at the University of Missouri, and Steve Sowers, chief executive officer of Commerce Bank’s Missouri community markets, today awarded a 2024 William T. Kemper Fellowship for Teaching Excellence to Jason Furrer. Furrer is an associate teaching professor in the School of Medicine’s Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology (MMI).
Richard Barohn, executive vice chancellor for health affairs and the School of Medicine dean, joined other administrators surprising Furrer by honoring him with the fellowship, which includes a $15,000 check. Kemper Fellowships are awarded to five outstanding teachers at the University of Missouri each year.
Known fondly across campus for his charisma, mentorship, and inclusive teaching philosophy, Jason Furrer, a professor of microbiology in the University of Missouri’s School of Medicine, is devoted to his students’ success.
In his classroom, Furrer integrates innovative teaching methods to engage students and make difficult subjects more approachable. Former student Amy Feddersen praised Furrer's passion and creativity, stating, “I will never forget one discussion we had where candy lifesavers were strewn across the stage and chairs on rollers were sent colliding, all in an effort to help us understand the immune system!”
Lee-Ann H. Allen, chair of the Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, commended Furrer's impact on students, describing him as "an innovative and compassionate educator who has an important and sustained positive impact on all the students who cross his path."
Furrer's commitment to inclusive teaching approaches and fostering critical thinking has earned him high praise from students. Former student Christian Farley Nieves expressed, “His teaching philosophy encourages students to work together and communicate to share understandings while building knowledge.”
Furrer, who holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in chemistry and a doctorate in molecular microbiology and immunology from MU, is recognized for his dedication to preparing nursing and pre-medical students for success in their fields. His methods have been lauded for instilling confidence in students' understanding of microbiology and its practical applications.
As a recipient of the 2024 William T. Kemper Fellowship for Teaching Excellence, Furrer's impact on the University of Missouri's academic community is celebrated, highlighting his exceptional contributions to education and student development.
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