CMU's Dr. Marty Baxter honored with prestigious Edward N. Lorenz Teaching Excellence Award
Dr. Marty Baxter, a professor in the Department of Earth and Atmospheric
Sciences at Central Michigan University, has been named the recipient of
the American Meteorological Society's 2025 Edward N. Lorenz Teaching Excellence
Award. This award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated sustained
outstanding teaching and mentoring at the undergraduate, graduate, or
post-doctoral levels, significantly impacting their students.
Dr. Baxter was nominated by Dr. John Allen, a colleague at CMU. In his
citation for the award, Dr. Allen highlighted Dr. Baxter's exceptional
dedication to his students, writing: "For selfless dedication and
persistence to teaching and mentoring, tireless advocacy and support for all
students, and innovative strategies for preparing students for any career
path."
Throughout his two-decade-long career at CMU, Dr. Baxter has distinguished
himself as an educator who goes beyond traditional teaching methods. His
innovative approach focuses on mentoring students to succeed in any area of
meteorology that interests them, rather than steering them toward his own areas
of expertise. This student-centered approach has proven effective, preparing
graduates to thrive in the fast-evolving field of meteorology. Dr. Baxter
acknowledges the challenges of keeping up with rapid changes in various sectors
of the field, but he views this effort as essential for ensuring that his
students remain competitive in the job market and are well-equipped to advance
the field.
Reflecting on the recognition, Dr. Baxter expressed deep gratitude: "It
means a lot to me that my colleagues and former students wanted to recognize my
efforts over the past two decades at CMU. I have come a long way since I was a
student like those I teach now, and I am forever indebted to so many people who
have guided me to be able to make the contributions that I have."
The Edward N. Lorenz Teaching Excellence Award is named after Edward Lorenz,
a pioneer in the field of weather forecasting. Receiving an award named in
Lorenz's honor is particularly meaningful for Dr. Baxter, whose own teaching
and research have centered on weather forecasting. "I am happy that my
work in developing the meteorology program and mentoring students has made a
difference in so many lives," Dr. Baxter said. "Those I have taught
have gone on to make predictions that protect life and property across the
country."
Dr. Baxter's commitment to his students and his field exemplifies the spirit
of the Edward N. Lorenz Teaching Excellence Award. His tireless efforts have
not only enriched the CMU meteorology program but have also left a lasting
impact on the many students he has mentored, preparing them to be leaders in
meteorology and beyond.