Each year since 2016, the Center for Teaching Excellence has awarded the Garnet Apple Award for Teaching Innovation that acknowledges USC faculty who consistently demonstrate a commitment to enhancing teaching practices and implementing innovative strategies to enrich student learning experiences. The following five recipients have been honored with the 2024 Garnet Apple Award. The awardees will be recognized at the 2024 Oktoberbest: A Symposium on Teaching on Friday, October 25.  

Khalid Ballouli Associate Professor Sport and Entertainment Management  College of Hospitality, Retail, and Sport Management   Khalid Ballouli was praised for his efforts to integrate AI into teaching practices and recognize the value of book clubs in facilitating experiential learning. His utilization of AI integration, gamification, and book clubs effectively provided social and experiential learning experiences. Additionally, he was commended for his implementation of debates and interactive exercises, which simulated real-world challenges and enhanced student engagement.
Augustus Fountain Senior Instructor  Chemistry and Biochemistry  College of Arts and Sciences  August Fountain received recognition for his dedication to enhancing forensic science education, as demonstrated by the establishment of new forensic science labs and the integration of experiential learning, such as study abroad programs, to bridge theory with practice. His emphasis on curriculum redesign and program development prepares students for real-world challenges in forensic science, focusing on practical applications and problem-solving skills.
Katherine Ryker Associate Professor  School of the Earth, Ocean and Environment  College of Arts and Sciences  Katherine Ryker was acknowledged for her teaching methods in line with social constructivist theory, which prioritize collaboration and employ innovative approaches like Open Educational Resources (OER) and inquiry-based laboratories. Additionally, her initiatives, including the Geoscientist Spotlight program, paper exit tickets, and active learning strategies, were recognized for their positive effects on attendance and the establishment of evidence-based connections.
Scott Smith Associate Professor  School of Hospitality and Tourism Management  College of Hospitality, Retail, and Sport Management  Scott Smith was recognized for his hands-on inquiry and active learning strategies evident in his courses. Specifically, the Theme Park and Attractions Management course integrated active and experiential learning to enhance student understanding. Emphasizing experiential learning, he provided comprehensive support through outside-of-class activities, including in-class simulations on an island to illustrate the economics of tourism. His classroom environment was described as highly interactive, fostering engaging and immersive learning experiences for students.
Sarah Williams Associate Professor  Music History  School of Music  Sarah Williams was recognized for her innovative use of universal design for learning (UDL) and experiential learning techniques in her courses. Her commitment to innovation was evident in both content and delivery, demonstrated through initiatives such as recording sessions, an open-access digital exhibit, and the incorporation of the cultural context of music from various time periods. Additionally, she was commended for her emphasis on accessibility, equity, and the integration of a digital humanities project, all of which contributed to fostering rich and inclusive learning environments.

Do you know a colleague who excels in adapting and building upon innovative best teaching practices in their courses? Are you aware of a highly creative and effective faculty member who develops new course materials, classroom methods, or pedagogical approaches? If so, we encourage you to consider nominating them for the Garnet Apple Award. Nominations for 2025 open in October, 2024.