Alexander Bozzo and Yuxuan Zhao, both assistant professors at the University of Wisconsin-Stout, were named on Apr. 20 as Universities of Wisconsin 2026-27 Wisconsin Teaching Fellows & Scholars. They are among 23 faculty members from across the Universities of Wisconsin chosen for their excellence in teaching and learning.
The fellowship aims to improve student engagement and learning outcomes by supporting innovative classroom practices. Bozzo, who directs the Center for Applied Ethics, plans to restructure his philosophy courses using a model inspired by The Philosophers’ Café, a public forum he organizes that encourages open dialogue on philosophical topics. Zhao will focus on increasing experiential learning opportunities in psychology while encouraging critical reflection and inclusivity.
“My ultimate teaching goals are to have students intentionally and rigorously engage with the material, to find it interesting and relevant to their lives, to clearly and critically communicate their ideas to others, and to come away with a richer understanding and excitement about it,” Bozzo said. “The formula for accomplishing these ends is changing, and I plan to use this opportunity to rethink and restructure my courses and methods.”
Zhao said they hope “to advance my approach of hands-on teaching by integrating student feedback more intentionally and continuing to learn alongside my students about their realities.” Zhao added that understanding sociocultural context is important when applying social science outside the classroom.
Provost Glendalí Rodríguez said ongoing professional development is vital: “Ongoing professional development is critical to our commitment as polytechnic educators. Each year, I am inspired by the student-focused projects put forward by UW-Stout faculty, and remain grateful for the Wisconsin Teaching Fellows & Scholars program.”
The University of Wisconsin-Stout features modern labs, studios, industry-linked spaces, partnerships with businesses for internships and research opportunities—all designed to enhance practical learning according to its official website. Recognized as Wisconsin’s Polytechnic University for blending theory with application according to its official website, UW-Stout supplies laptops through its eStout program according to its official website in support of technology integration in education.
Both fellows will participate in a yearlong program beginning in May that includes systematic research focused on improving student learning through Scholarship of Teaching and Learning projects. Their work will culminate with presentations in spring 2027.
