Cheryl Morris, associate professor in animal science, is the recipient of the faculty 2025 Outstanding Achievement in Teaching Award from the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Iowa State University. Her passion for animals and her enthusiasm for science is apparent in every lecture, lab and experience she gives to students. Morris creates and develops unique opportunities, ensuring that learning doesn’t stop at the classroom walls.
Morris has extensive experience in both the zoo and companion animal nutrition industries. She left her faculty position at Iowa State for four years and served as vice president of conservation at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium and the Lee G. Simmons Conservation Park and Wildlife Safari. Bringing this practical experience into the classroom lends her an immense amount of creditability. A colleague stated, “Dr. Morris is an internationally recognized nutritionist and animal training specialist. She works with companion animal nutrition and zoo animal husbandry globally. We are thankful for her return to Iowa State.”
Morris returned in 2021 to teach and develop a community companion animal educational program. While animal nutrition may not be a student’s top thought for a future career, by the time they are exposed to Morris’ passion and enthusiasm, and made aware of the tremendous career opportunities, they are interested. She then provides career mentorship, using her vast array of contacts to open opportunities that most students never knew existed. A student stated, “She ensures that there are countless opportunities for physical demonstrations and hands-on experiences in class, whether it is a training demonstration with her dogs or diet formulations with colored beads, which caters to numerous learning styles. Additionally, she emphasizes learning lifelong skills as opposed to studying to pass a test.”
Morris has also developed a unique experiential learning opportunity for students interested in canine training, called the ACE Project. She matches shelter dogs, who are often in need of behavior modification in order to be adopted, with students who are able to foster these animals for a time. Morris has secured funding for pet food, accessories, training equipment and veterinary care, ensuring that finances are not a barrier to participation and allowing all students the opportunity to be involved. An added benefit of this experience is the deep sense of community that the students build with each other throughout the semester.
A colleague stated, “Animals bring out the very best in us, and our students find that necessary connection – both with the dogs and with each other – and sense of community when working toward a shared objective through this project. It truly is a labor of love, for both the students and Dr. Morris, and is the perfect example of learning while making a difference in the community. “
In addition to her classroom teaching, Morris participates in and contributes to industry conferences and meetings. Her courses are always up-to-date with the latest science and industry trends, and include a variety of teaching techniques that transcend various levels of expertise, knowledge and learning styles to relate the information in a clear and concise way. A colleague stated, “I cannot think of a better measure of teaching success than your philosophy matching so closely with your student course evaluations. The positive impact that Dr. Morris has on our students is life-changing and lasting.”