Jeff Cavanaugh, a fourth-year Ph.D. student in the Department of Management at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, received the university's Outstanding Graduate Teaching Assistant Award for his exemplary contributions to student learning and development. With hundreds of graduate students teaching across the university each semester, Cavanaugh distinguished himself by teaching both introductory and advanced management courses with a unique approach that resonated deeply with his students.

"When he talks about teaching, his eyes shine," said Jenna Pieper, Donald and Shirley Clifton Chair of Organizational Behavior and associate professor of management, who nominated him for the award. "He is extremely conscientious about his teaching and cares about his students. These factors come through in his student evaluations, which score 10-11% higher than the college's average rating and 6.5-9% higher than the average rating for similar management courses."

Cavanaugh taught Introduction to Management (MNGT 301), where he introduced students to foundational management principles, and Business Strategies (MNGT 475), the capstone course for senior-level students. This course focuses on integrating management theories with practical business applications, preparing students for complex decision-making in corporate settings. Rather than traditional lecture formats, Cavanaugh fosters a collaborative learning environment, which emphasizes active participation and real-world relevance.

"I shadowed Anand (Varkey Titus Jr., Amy and J. E. Van Horne Jr Chair and associate professor of management) in his class a couple of times. He shared with me his teaching theory, and I saw what he did in the classroom. I took that and integrated what I knew as a student and considered how it's all changed post-pandemic with what students expect," he said. "I very quickly learned what students seem to respond to and the types of activities and discussions that worked really well."

Teaching one of the first and last business classes students take, he had students like Taylor Strauser and Jake Edins join him for a second class this spring. With four semesters of teaching, it is the first time he had repeat students.

"Jeff’s classes are conversational. He encourages everyone to participate and creates an environment that makes it exciting to speak up. He also uses real-world examples that are relevant in today’s world and make sense to us as students," said Strauser, a May business administration graduate from Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Jake Edins, a May accounting graduate from Pierce, Nebraska, echoed this sentiment and says Cavanaugh "makes concepts tangible and relatable." For Edins, Cavanaugh stood out due his genuine interest in his students' success.

"Professor Cavanaugh is my favorite teacher from my college experience. He is extremely knowledgeable and was also willing to have meaningful conversations with students about stuff that goes beyond the class material," Edins said.

Reflecting on his teaching philosophy, Cavanaugh stressed the importance of giving students autonomy and involvement in their educational journey.

"I believe in empowering students by encouraging active participation and critical thinking. I often ask for their feedback and incorporate it," the Omaha, Nebraska, native explained. "My goal is not just to impart knowledge but to equip students with the skills they need to succeed in the business world. It's about inspiring and empowering students to reach their full potential."

As he prepares to enter the job market, Cavanaugh plans to continue refining his teaching methods and furthering his research in management, focusing on entrepreneurship and strategy.

"Every semester, I strive to make it my best yet. My goal is to create an environment where students feel empowered to learn and grow, and it starts with learning every one of my students' names," he said.