Show-Me State Times

Chris Prestigiacomo, an associate teaching professor in the Robert J. Trulaske, Sr. College of Business at the University of Missouri, has been awarded the 2024 William T. Kemper Fellowship for Teaching Excellence. The award, which includes a $15,000 check, was presented by Mun Choi, president of the University, and Steve Sowers, chief executive officer of Commerce Bank’s Missouri community markets.

In his teaching philosophy statement, Prestigiacomo expressed his dedication to his students' success, stating, “My primary goal is to give my students the opportunity to improve their lives by adding to their human capital.” He emphasized the importance of not only teaching academic material but also imparting critical thinking skills and life lessons to his students.

One of his students, William Shafer, praised Prestigiacomo for his teaching style and impact, saying, “He managed to teach in a lighthearted, jovial manner, making seemingly tedious topics enjoyable to learn.” Shafer also highlighted Prestigiacomo's ability to weave insightful life lessons into the curriculum, enriching the learning experience for students.

Balaji Rajagopalan, dean of the College of Business, commended Prestigiacomo for his passion, rigor, fairness, and dedication to student success. He noted, “Chris takes difficult technical content and teaches it in a manner that students easily comprehend, enabling them to utilize their newfound financial knowledge and business acumen in various career pathways.”

Prestigiacomo's teaching excellence extends beyond the classroom as he advises students studying for their Chartered Financial Analyst exams, reviews accounting textbooks for prominent publishers, and serves as a faculty advisor to several student organizations on campus.

Reflecting on his teaching philosophy, Prestigiacomo highlighted the importance of education in broadening perspectives and fostering tolerance. He emphasized that the goal of education is not just to memorize facts but to be enlightened by new ideas and perspectives.

Prestigiacomo, who has been teaching at the University of Missouri since 2008, holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration, a Master of Business Administration degree, and a doctoral degree in finance from MU. He is also a Chartered Financial Analyst and a Certified Management Accountant.

The William T. Kemper Fellowship for Teaching Excellence is awarded to five outstanding teachers at the University of Missouri each year and was established in 1991 with a generous gift from William T. Kemper, a distinguished alumnus of the university.