Iowa State Professor Earns USDA Excellence in Teaching Honor

AMES, Iowa — Jim Kliebenstein, economics professor in Iowa State University’s College of Agriculture, has been awarded the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Agricultural Sciences Excellence in Teaching Award. Kliebenstein was one of six regional winners to receive the award at a ceremony held Nov. 11 in Houston. "Dr. Kliebenstein is far more than a superb teacher," said David Acker, associate dean of academic and global programs in the College of Agriculture. "He is also the finest role model I can imagine for our students. Kliebenstein emphasized the importance of creating a positive learning environment and said that an integral part of what he does as a professor is making things challenging and fun while establishing expectations. "Creating an atmosphere where there is the desire and excitement to learn is essential," he said. "When done effectively, students will accomplish more than they ever felt possible." Kliebenstein has authored or co-authored more than 500 publications and received more than 50 grants. This year he also received the Publication of Enduring Quality Award from the American Agricultural Economics Association.