Marisol Galicia Estevez Receives CLA’s Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching Award

When students walk into Marisol Galicia Estevez’ classroom, they know they’ll be met with energy, empathy, and a deep commitment to their growth. These qualities have earned her CLA’s Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching Award, which acknowledges non-tenure-track faculty who go above and beyond to inspire students and foster dynamic, inclusive classroom environments.

In her more than two decades in the Department of Spanish & Portuguese Studies, Galicia Estevez has exemplified the spirit of this award through passionate commitment to her students’ success, deep involvement in departmental and curricular development, and a teaching philosophy rooted in nurturing an inclusive, engaging, and supportive environment where both students and instructor can grow together.

Above and Beyond

Galicia Estevez’ dedication to her students and colleagues goes far beyond the classroom. Known for stepping up in every capacity, she embodies a spirit of generosity that has defined her 21 years at the University. 

“Her generosity in helping the department is unmatched,” says Bill Viestenz, Chair of the Spanish & Portuguese studies department. “Whether it be volunteering for committees, stepping in last-minute to teach an overload class when we desperately need it, or substituting last-minute for colleagues.”

Many of her students echo this sentiment. 

“Even after I left her class, Marisol emailed me and told me that her door was always open if I ever needed help in my following semesters of Spanish even though she was [no longer] my instructor,” says Isabel Margerie, a former student of hers. 

“Beyond her teaching methods, Professor Galicia Estevez is remarkably approachable and deeply invested in her students' growth,” says Sydney Berg. “Her open-door policy extended beyond office hours, and she created a classroom culture that was positive, encouraging, and growth-focused.”

“She transformed our classroom in Folwell Hall into a place free of judgment and worry,” says student Dane Bergstrom.

Galicia Estevez has also been a key voice in efforts to diversify the Spanish & Portuguese Studies curriculum and make their classes more accessible and inclusive. “Marisol’s dedication to DEI has defined her teaching, since long before it existed as an official program at the University,” says Viestenz.

Galicia Estevez’s deep personal investment in each student’s journey is matched only by her willingness to continually grow as an educator, regularly seeking feedback and creating space for students to express their learning needs. 

“[Marisol] always highlighted that making mistakes is one of the best ways to learn and made the classroom environment a safe space to make mistakes and accept constructive feedback on how to improve,” says Margerie. “[She] always made an effort to improve upon her teaching skills too; she often asked us for feedback and gave us a safe space to share our concerns and what we thought helped us learn the most.”

“Professor Galicia Estevez’ lessons are thoughtfully structured and adapted to meet our learning needs,” says Berg. “[She] exemplifies the qualities of a dedicated educator who consistently fosters a learning environment that both challenges and inspires her students.”

“She Inspires”

To her students, Galicia Estevez is more than just an instructor. She is a source of inspiration.

“In the 21 years that Marisol has taught in our department, students have developed an absolute devotion to her,” says Viestenz. “They seek her out for mentorship and advice long after they are no longer in her class, showing the long-lasting impression she makes on them.”

“Maestra Marisol puts so much time and effort toward her students, and it is truly a privilege to be taught by an outstanding professor,” says student Kristina Mortenson. “Not only did she inspire me to declare a Spanish minor, but she also motivated me to emulate her example.” 

“Previously, Spanish had been my least favorite subject by far,” says Margerie, reflecting a common theme. “This quickly changed after taking Marisol’s class due to her kindness, approachability, sense of humor, and her way of breaking down concepts to make them make sense.”

“Many students decide to minor or major in Spanish due to their wonderful experiences in her classes,” says Viestenz. “Clearly, Marisol does not just teach; she inspires.”

Other students echo this sentiment.

“Her enthusiasm for Spanish language and culture was contagious,” says Berg. “Her dedication to student well-being and genuine investment in our learning journeys set an inspiring example that I continue to carry with me long after my time in her class.”

“I hope every student has the honor of learning from a teacher as outstanding as Maestra Marisol,” says Mortenson.