A Glimpse Into The Life of A Presidential Awardee

We proudly recognize Sean Tierney as the recipient of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Teaching, a testament to his significant impact in the field of mathematics and Duquesne University. Through his dedicated contributions, leadership, and commitment, he has set a standard of excellence within the science and academic community. Learn about the outstanding achievements and inspiring journey that have earned him this recognition.

1. What inspired you to become a professor, and how did you develop your teaching philosophy over the years?

'I chose Duquesne University for undergraduate study, pursuing two degrees: one in mathematics, and one in secondary education. At the time, Duquesne’s reputation for quality instruction was well known, with professors who strived to embody the teacher-scholar paradigm. Seeing the passion, preparedness, and pedagogical skill of my professors (particularly those who taught me advanced mathematics) only strengthened my desire to follow in my parents’ footsteps and become a teacher; by their examples, my professors taught me the importance of “serving God by serving students.”

Being able to return to Duquesne and continue my relationship with the campus community has been a true blessing. More importantly, serving on the faculty at Duquesne has afforded me the opportunity to live the Spiritan call to “educate the person” and inspire students and peers to grow as individuals: mind, heart and spirit. To that end, my personal history with our University, its mission, and the principles of Spiritan pedagogy have motivated me to become an effective teacher and engaged member of the larger University community – one who strives to form collaborative relationships with students and colleagues.'

2. Can you share an example of a particularly memorable or impactful teaching moment in your career?

'At the end of the Spring semester, 2023, I was able to share with my students that at 40, I was going to be a dad for the first time. That term, one of my classes was being held in a large lecture hall, and over 80 students were in attendance. When I told them the news, they erupted in applause and chants – they were genuinely happy for me. To see a group of students show that much excitement for their professor – I still get goosebumps thinking about it. And although the baby wasn’t due to arrive until the Fall, long after our class had ended, it was particularly touching that many of these students reached out to me personally with emails and notes, asking for updates and to see pictures of the baby. I think this really speaks to the power and importance of relationship-building in the classroom.'

3. What does receiving this award mean to you personally and professionally? Reflecting on your career, is there anything you would do differently if you could go back to the start of your journey?

'It means everything to me. It's incredibly humbling to be recognized in this way and it's hard to put into words the impact of such recognition. When you get to work with students and colleagues as generous as those at Duquesne, receiving such a prestigious award is really icing on the cake. Teaching is my passion, and I get to do it at a spiritan institution that means a great deal to me. In that sense, I feel rewarded every day- I wouldn't change a thing!'

Upcoming...

 

Keep an eye out for our October newsletter, where we'll shine a spotlight on Dr. Jeffrey Evanseck, the recipient of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Research.