09/15/2026
A HUGE congratulations to architecture professor David Thaddeus for being named a finalist for a UNC Charlotte 2026 Teaching Excellence Award 🌟
Charlotte faculty shape the learning experiences that help students thrive. This year's six finalists reflect that impact through the care and commitment they bring to their teaching. Recipients will be announced Thursday, Sept. 24, at a reception in the Popp Martin Student Union.
Thaddeus' passion for teaching defines every aspect of his work at UNC Charlotte.
His belief that students learn best by doing runs through his structures courses and design studios, where models, real building documentation and precedent analysis let students figure out structural principles hands-on.
“Professor Thaddeus has an outstanding attitude and work ethic towards his students,” said architecture student Dima Awadallah. “He encourages his students to do their best and goes out of his way to help them grow and learn in a way that enhances their career.”
His reach goes well beyond campus. In 2019 he was elevated to the AIA College of Fellows, an honor only 3% of members receive, for his contributions to architectural education. That reputation is built on innovative teaching practices that bridge architecture and engineering, a rare combination that strengthens his integrated approach to design.
As Blaine Brownell, director of the Ravin School of Architecture, notes, “Thaddeus builds collective knowledge in a personal and non‑threatening style, demonstrating care for each individual and conveying kindness and humor as everyday approaches to encourage active and empathetic learning. He also habitually bridges different disciplinary areas of knowledge, enabling students to make conceptual connections between different types of expertise.”
Thaddeus is one of three finalists in the tenured category, along with Erin Basinger, communication studies, and Hilary Dack, education.
Congrats to David! The nomination is so well deserved 💚
📸 Photos by Amy Hart; Storrs archive 2007 (CriticalMASS), 1999 and 2005
