PhD student Gyudae "GD" Kim has received the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences Excellence Award in Undergraduate Teaching for a Graduate Teaching Assistant. GD has served as lead instructor for the following Geography & GIS courses:
GGIS 210: Social & Environmental Issues (Summer 2024 online)
GGIS 221: Geographies of Global Conflict (Fall 2024)
GGIS 204: Cities of the World (Spring 2025)

Student nominators mentioned that Kim makes his classes accessible to everyone. “He fosters an environment where students feel heard, respected, and motivated to engage deeply with course material,” wrote an alum who graduated in 2024. 

"Teaching is more than delivering content; it's about creating an inclusive environment where students feel heard, respected, and challenged to think critically. I’m honored to receive this award and grateful for the opportunity to learn from my students as much as they learn from me," said Kim.