The award, which recognizes exceptional faculty for their engagement with residential students, is sponsored by University Housing and University 101 in honor of Gardner, a distinguished professor emeritus who served as director of University 101 for 25 years.

Gardner is also the founder of the National Resource Center for the First Year Experience and Students in Transition at the University. Now in retirement from USC, he continues to serve as Senior Fellow of the center.

The award, which includes a plaque and $500 prize, was presented during the University Housing Awards breakfast April 30.

Thesing was nominated for the honor by graduating seniors Rebecca Angela Stelzer and Stephanie Scholler. They cited his teaching, active involvement in the Preston community, and work as a faculty advisor who provided inspiration and guidance during their undergraduate careers.

Thesing frequently dined with Preston students and served as a mentor and facilitator who assisted the students with applications for student leadership positions and graduate school admission.

"I'm elated," said Thesing, who is completing his 26th year at the University. "And I feel quite humble to be receiving an award with John Gardner's name on it. He meant a great deal to the University for many years and his program is internationally known and respected."

04/03