Stephen Yenser

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For Stephen Yenser, there’s more to teaching than simply imparting knowledge. Acclaimed by students and colleagues as a man who inspires them to put forth their best effort, makes them believe in themselves and ultimately helps them think and even write about their world a little differently, he is at once a mentor, scholar and artist in his own right. Professor Yenser’s diverse talents have placed him in a unique position to guide both the creative and academic development of his students. A widely published poet, he launched the English department’s graduate workshops in creative writing. Students frequently cite his ability to combine a supportive classroom environment with intellectual rigor, and are struck by his passion for his subject and concern for their learning. As one colleague wrote, the proof of the teaching is in the students. Professor Yenser has directed five dissertations, and four of those doctoral students now hold academic appointments. A number of his creative writing students have won local, university and national prizes. Professor Yenser, the 1989 recipient of the Harvey L. Eby Award for the Art of Teaching, has had a profound impact on the University community. To his many students, however, the influence runs deeper. He is, as one former student wrote, “the kind of teacher one finds once in a lifetime.”