The Association of Former Students has announced the honorees of the 2025 College-Level Teaching Awards, recognizing four faculty members in the Texas A&M College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.

The awards celebrate exceptional faculty members whose mastery of their discipline, innovative methods and dedication to students set the highest standard of education.

The award winners represent the spirit of excellence that defines the College, said Jeffrey W. Savell, Ph.D., vice chancellor and dean for Agriculture and Life Sciences.

“Our faculty set the bar for teaching excellence. Their dedication to students, in the classroom, in labs and beyond, defines the character of our College,” Savell said. “We celebrate these award winners for their teaching, but their excellence reaches everything they do.”

Catharine Ross, Ph.D., recently named associate dean for faculty affairs in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, emphasized the importance of preparing students to lead.

“Teaching the next generation of leaders is central to our mission as a College,” Ross said. “These honorees exemplify how our College’s educators can inspire students to face complex challenges with creativity, integrity and resilience.”

Each of the four recipients received a framed certificate and a monetary award.

Jean-Philippe Pellois, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics

Five poeple, including three men and two women, stand close together in a line with their thumbs up smiling.
Jean-Phillipe Pellois, Ph.D., professor and associate head for research in the Department of Biochemistry & Biophysics, pictured in the middle, was honored while teaching a class by College leadership for his award. (Chris Swann/Texas A&M AgriLife)

Jean-Philippe Pellois, Ph.D., professor and associate head for research in the Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, was selected for his engaging and innovative approach to teaching biochemistry. His courses inspire students to go beyond the classroom, fostering active participation and curiosity. He has developed new undergraduate and graduate curricula, integrated emerging tools such as generative AI into teaching, and guided more than 80 undergraduates and 28 doctoral students through mentorship and research opportunities. Students consistently praise his clarity, creativity and care, with course ratings averaging 4.8 out of 5.

Jacquelyn Grace, Department of Ecology and Conservation Biology

W woman in a blue dress smiles at a man in a suit while standing in front of a chalk board.
Jacquelyn Grace, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Department of Ecology and Conservation Biology, is known for her passion and encouragement to students. (Michael Miller/Texas A&M AgriLife)

Jacquelyn Grace, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Department of Ecology and Conservation Biology, was honored for her dedication to creating active, inclusive learning environments. She redesigned core courses to include interactive learning, simulations and professional networking. Beyond the classroom, she has mentored 80 undergraduate researchers and numerous graduate students, helping them publish, present at conferences and secure competitive awards. Students commend her passion, accessibility and encouragement, crediting her with transforming their academic confidence and success.

Elena Castell-Perez, Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering

A woman in a striped shirt and glasses smiles while three other people look at her.
Elena Castell-Perez, Ph.D., professor and associate department head for academic programs in the Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering, was recognized for more than 30 years of excellence in teaching and mentoring. (Hannah Harrison/Texas A&M AgriLife)

Elena Castell-Perez, Ph.D., professor and associate department head for academic programs in the Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering, was recognized for more than 30 years of excellence in teaching and mentoring. She has pioneered innovative teaching strategies, including active learning and international study abroad programs in Spain. Her students highlight her ability to make complex engineering concepts approachable and meaningful, while her colleagues praise her leadership in curriculum development and accreditation. Her mentorship has guided more than 30 graduate students and countless undergraduates into successful careers.

Desmond Ng, Department of Agricultural Economics

A group of six people, including two women and four men, stand in a line with their thumbs up smiling.
Desmond Ng, Ph.D., associate professor in the Department of Agricultural Economics, pictured in green, was honored for his mentorship and enthusiasm for student success.(Hannah Harrison/Texas A&M AgriLife)

Desmond Ng, Ph.D., associate professor in the Department of Agricultural Economics, was honored for his applied, student-centered teaching in agribusiness management. Known for case-based teaching and Socratic discussion, he equips students with decision-making and critical thinking skills that translate directly to their careers. His passion for teaching motivates students to push beyond expectations, and his mentorship extends to helping them find purpose and calling in life. Students and peers alike commend his enthusiasm, rigor and unwavering care for their success.

About the awards

The Association of Former Students College-Level Teaching Awards recognize faculty across Texas A&M University’s colleges who demonstrate teaching excellence, care for students and commitment to academic rigor. These awards are among the most prestigious honors for faculty at the university.

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