White recognized for teaching excellence in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

Alex White of Blacksburg, Va., was awarded the 2007 Certificate of Teaching Excellence from the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Virginia Tech.

Engaging his students, presenting practical knowledge, and helping students learn through creative instructional methods are key elements that have helped White, an instructor of agricultural and applied economics, earn the respect of his students and a strong reputation as an excellent teacher.

White captivates his students with his enthusiasm and application of real-world experiences. "Students work hard in Alex's classes, and Alex sparks their enthusiasm by making class materials relevant to their lives and future careers," said Kevin Boyle, head of the Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics. "The outcomes speak for themselves. Seniors in our departmental exit interviews typically name Alex's classes as the best and most useful classes offered by our department."

White has taught a wide variety of classes, including Small Business Management and Entrepreneurship, Agricultural Financial Management, and Agricultural Management and Problem Solving. Students have given him high scores for his success in communicating, in concern and respect for students, and in the overall rating as an instructor. He is a four-time winner of the Outstanding Teaching Faculty Member in the Agricultural and Applied Economics Department Award as well as a six-time winner of the Outstanding Teacher in the Agricultural Technology program.

Not only is White outstanding in the classroom, but he also gives unselfishly of his time to helping students with their extracurricular activities. He serves as an advisor to the AgEcon/NAMA club, advises the National Agri-Marketing Association competition team, and participates in a wide variety of Block and Bridle, Alpha Gamma Rho, Alpha Zeta, and Student Alumni Ambassadors functions.

"Alex White exhibits the care and concern that he has for his students," said Dixie Reaves, associate professor and undergraduate program chair in the Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics. "He cares about them as individuals. The students see him as an outstanding teacher, mentor, and friend."

About the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

Nationally ranked among the top research institutions of its kind,Virginia Tech's College of Agriculture and Life Sciences focuses on the science and business of living systems through learning, discovery, and engagement. The college's comprehensive curriculum gives more than 2,200 students in a dozen academic departments a balanced education that ranges from food and fiber production to economics to human health. Students learn from the world's leading agricultural scientists, who bring the latest science and technology into the classroom.