Excellence in Teaching Award

Manuel Montaño - Environmental Sciences

Manuel David Montaño is an associate professor in the Environmental Sciences Department in the College of the Environment. His research and scholarship focus is on the study of anthropogenic and geogenic nanoscale processes in the environment, and the development and application of emerging analytical methods to study these phenomena. He runs an active research program involving undergraduate and graduate researchers and has published in several environmental and analytical chemistry journals.

In the classroom, Manuel draws upon his own experiences as a first-generation student to foster an inclusive and supportive learning environment. His classes range in subjects from toxicology to water quality, emerging contaminants and environmental analysis. He encourages student success through active discussions, student-centered learning practices, and a focus on community. Students’ knowledge is then put into practice in the laboratory where they hone their skills as scientists. Outside the classroom, he takes particular pride in striving to be an effective mentor and advocate for his students, continuing a tradition of strong mentorship he was himself fortunate to receive throughout his career.