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Biostatistics may not be the easiest subject matter to learn, but Abbey Eng, Ph.D., associate professor in the College of Public Health at 91�ֿ�, strives to make sure her students succeed. Her commitment and passion for math mixed with a desire to help others is what led Eng to earn the 2020 Outstanding Teaching Award (OTA).

The OTA, presented by the University Teaching Council, credits three full-time non-tenure track and part-time faculty members for being among the most dedicated and motivated faculty at the university.

“I was very humbled,” Eng said. “It was exciting to realize that I was having an impact on students because you always hope that you do, but to find out that you truly do is humbling.”

Eng is always adjusting her classes and teaching style so her students can perform to the best of their abilities.

“Every semester I'm trying to modify my classes and listen to student feedback,” Eng said. “I'm trying to add in different material that I think will help them understand better based on questions or comments that I get.”

Not only is Eng constantly listening to her students and their needs, but she’s also compassionate when it comes to communicating with them.

“I’m pretty empathetic,” Eng said. “I listen. When students come to me, I try to put myself in their place and feel what they’re going through.”

This has become a motto Eng aspires to live by when teaching.

“For me, it’s always about approaching my students with kindness,” Eng said. “Many students are going through so many things that I have no idea about. So sometimes students just need someone to say, ‘I'm sorry’ and listen to them.”

The most important thing for Eng is for her students to realize that they can do hard things, while also appreciating what statistics can do for them. As a female in STEM, she wants students to see that anyone can pursue statistics.

“I hope that my female and male students can see me as a role model,” Eng said.

Her ability to give students an extra boost of confidence contributed to her receivance of such an honorable award. From her dedication to her compassion, Eng has made a strong impact within her role. Eng was recognized along with other 2020 and 2021 OTA winners at the University Teaching Council Conference on Oct. 22, 2021.

For more information on the college of public health visit, /publichealth.

For more information on biostatistics at 91�ֿ�, visit .