Faculty at the School of Music, Theatre & Dance are highly skilled and dedicated teachers as well as celebrated artists and scholars. Every year, SMTD recognizes several faculty members for their excellence and contributions to the school.
Catherine Walker, clinical professor in the Department of Musical Theatre, is the recipient of the 2025 SMTD Teaching Excellence Award, which recognizes outstanding teaching in any SMTD department. Walker is recognized with this prestigious honor for her distinguished record of sustained excellence in teaching and mentoring.
Danielle Belen, associate professor in the Department of Strings, is the recipient of the 2025 Harold Haugh Award for excellence in studio teaching. This award is named in honor of Haugh, former professor of music and leading oratorio soloist. Belen has an extraordinary record of student success. In accordance with this award, she will present a recital or lecture demonstration during the fall 2025 term.
Áine Heneghan, associate professor in the Department of Music Theory, is the recipient of the 2025 SMTD Award for Faculty Mentorship. This award, established in 2023 to recognize outstanding faculty mentoring in the school, honors faculty mentorship as a critical component of professional service and one of the most important factors in faculty development, success, and retention.
Each of these nominations was endorsed by the SMTD Awards Committee and the Executive Committee. Congratulations to Professor Walker, Professor Belen, and Professor Heneghan.