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Farrell receives Kolmer Award for excellence in teaching

By Lisa Gulya '07
June 13, 2005

St. Olaf Professor of History and Director of American Studies Jim Farrell has received the Elizabeth Kolmer Award from the Mid-America American Studies Association (MAASA). MAASA is a regional chapter of the American Studies Association, an organization dedicated to the interdisciplinary study of American culture.

Created in 1996, the Kolmer Award honors teaching and mentoring in the field of American Studies as well as service to the MAASA. The annual award is named in honor of former MAASA President Sister Elizabeth Kolmer, an exemplary instructor and scholar.

"I've always thought that teaching was the most important part of my work, and American Studies classes are among my favorites at St. Olaf," says Farrell. "Every year, I learn more and more about teaching -- and American culture -- from my students."

Farrell is well known on the St. Olaf campus for his cooperation with students and unique courses. Over the years he has taught classes on topics ranging from St. Olaf campus ecology to Walt Disney's America.

"No matter how daunting the subject or challenging a course, an air of thoughtful playfulness animates his classroom," says Kendra Smith '99. "He dares students to imagine what a more just and wondrous world would be like; then, he persuades them that their own skills and passions are indispensable for making that world come about."

Smith recalls the collaborative opportunities that Farrell provided for her as a student worker, reading and commenting on drafts of his writing, not just photocopying and running errands. She also credits Farrell for encouraging her to pursue a graduate degree and seek manuscript publication.

Farrell agrees that he is eager to help students realize their potential. "The mentoring that matters most to me is asking big questions about life and work and love, and giving students space to become themselves," says Farrell. "It's a real joy to watch students grow, not just as students but as whole human beings."

Farrell is an integral and dynamic part of the St. Olaf community, as his myriad affiliations attest: sustainability task force member, professor of history and environmental studies, director of American studies. "If the line outside his office door is any indication, Jim Farrell is one of the most sought-after individuals on the St. Olaf campus," says Smith.

"Walking away from my many talks with Jim, I often felt renewed in the conviction that my education mattered," says Samuel Graber '97, "and mattered in ways that went far beyond diplomas or an acquired body of knowledge. [He] always managed to confirm my hopes... that to be involved in the life of the mind was both a privilege and a thrill."

Contact David Gonnerman at 507-786-3315 or gonnermd@stolaf.edu.