Davis Recognized With University Professorship For Undergraduate Teaching Excellence

Dr. Amanda Davis, a clinical assistant professor in the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences’ (VMBS) Department of Veterinary Physiology & Pharmacology (VTPP), has been named a recipient of the 2026 University Professorship for Undergraduate Teaching Excellence (UPUTE). The award recognizes faculty who demonstrate outstanding dedication to innovative teaching and a deep commitment to student success.

“Dr. Davis demonstrates her commitment to student success through development of interactive tools,” said Dr. Bonnie R. Rush, the Carl B. King Dean of Veterinary Medicine in the VMBS. “She teaches with compassion and energy, inspiring students to tackle challenging material and grow into confident, future professionals.”

“Dr. Davis exemplifies this dedication to excellence and demonstrates unwavering commitment and passion for educating undergraduate students,” said Dr. Christina Heaps, VTPP interim department head. “She is the truest embodiment of the qualities these awards seek to recognize.”

Davis joined the Texas A&M faculty in 2017 and has played a central role in advancing undergraduate physiology education. Her work has strengthened the core curriculum, enhanced learning experiences across disciplines, and inspired students to engage deeply with complex scientific concepts.

She also played a key role in the full redesign of a core physiology course for biomedical engineering students in 2022. Her updates modernized the course structure, introduced more interactive learning tools, and reimagined the labs to focus on hands-on discovery and collaborative problem-solving.

“Through Dr. Davis’ comprehensive course redesign and strategic revisions, the course has been transformed and is demonstrably stronger in both structure and student learning outcomes,” a nominator noted.

Students consistently praise Davis for making these courses both enjoyable and relevant to their academic journeys.

“Dr. Davis is deeply invested in her students’ futures, as she knows that they are future biomedical engineers, doctors, researchers, and more,” a former student wrote. “On the first day of class, she highlights how professions from medicine to law can benefit from physiology; then she encourages students to share their learning goals for the class.”

Davis also is known for her availability and mentorship outside the classroom, striving to provide students with academic support throughout the semester, no matter where they are.

“Dr. Davis makes herself highly accessible to students, holding both face‑to‑face and online office hours, ensuring that support is convenient and readily available,” a nominator said.

In addition to her instructional leadership, Davis has participated in collaborative teaching initiatives that extend the reach of physiology education beyond campus. Notably, she partnered with the University of Georgia to develop interactive cardiac physiology learning modules, creating an impact that spans nationwide and exemplifying the dedication of Texas A&M faculty and staff.

Her contributions to student learning have been recognized with multiple honors across the university. Colleagues note that her influence is evident in the confidence and curiosity she nurtures in students.

“Dr. Davis exemplifies the very essence of teaching with distinction and embodies the intent of the UPUTE awards,” a nominator concluded. “She inspires and guides the complete development of students, shaping them as both learners and future professionals.”

Davis’s UPUTE professorship is a three-year award recognizing her outstanding teaching and innovative approach to undergraduate education. The award includes a fund to support her teaching and professional development, and during the three-year term, she will also be involved in programs to help other faculty grow as educators.

“I am incredibly humbled to receive this award,” Davis said. “It has been a joy and privilege to learn from some of the best educators in physiology here in VTPP, and I look forward to continuing to contribute to our academic community.”