CAPLA lecturer Nataliya Apanovich honored with Gerald J. Swanson Prize for Teaching Excellence
CAPLA lecturer Nataliya Apanovich received the University of Arizona Gerald J. Swanson Prize for Teaching Excellence, one of the university’s highest honors recognizing exceptional teaching.
Since joining CAPLA in August 2022, Apanovich has become known for creating engaging, student-centered learning experiences that blend classroom instruction with hands-on community engagement. She teaches undergraduate courses in the Sustainable Built Environments program, including Introduction to Sustainability, Careers in Sustainability, Planning for Sustainable Cities and Regions, Research Methods, Senior Capstone and Professional Communication and Presentation.
For Apanovich, the award reflects the teaching philosophy she has developed throughout her career.
“This recognition means acknowledgement of my teaching innovation, student mentorship and community involvement, as I rely on all three to provide engaging and meaningful educational experiences,” she said. “It also means that what I have been doing is working and it incentives me to be even more innovative and collaborative in my teaching.”
Her approach centers on meeting students where they are and creating opportunities for them to learn both inside and outside the classroom.
“I am passionate about addressing mental health challenges through teaching,” Apanovich said. “I bring my students outside for experiential learning and community engagement because I’ve noticed they learn more about each other, become friends and have higher class attendance and participation.”
Dean Nancy Pollock-Ellwand highlighted Apanovich’s ability to translate complex environmental and sustainability concepts into engaging learning experiences through guest speakers, field trips and real-world applications.
“From course design to advising, to community-engaged teaching, Dr. Apanovich demonstrates a strong commitment to the student and their success,” Pollock-Ellwand said. “Her contributions to student growth, academic quality and the broader university community exemplify the spirit of this prestigious award.”
Beyond teaching, Apanovich mentors undergraduate students as they pursue research opportunities, internships and leadership roles. She also serves as an advisor for the Ecological Restoration Club, Students for Sustainable Cities Club and CAPLA International Students Club, helping students build community and gain professional experience outside the classroom.
Watching students discover their interests and confidence over the course of their academic careers is what Apanovich finds most rewarding.
“By the time I have them in Senior Capstone, I see their progression from shy and unsure students to confident professionals who know how to speak intelligently and holistically about the issues in the sustainability and built environments fields,” she said.
As a recipient of the Gerald J. Swanson Prize for Teaching Excellence, Apanovich joins a distinguished group of University of Arizona educators recognized for their lasting impact on student learning and success.
