Dr. Joseph Riesen, professor of mathematics at Fairmont State University, was awarded the College Teacher of the Year Award at the West Virginia Council of Teachers of Mathematics conference, according to a May 11 announcement from the university.
The award recognizes outstanding contributions by college-level mathematics educators and highlights excellence in teaching and mentorship within West Virginia’s higher education community.
Riesen has taught a wide range of courses at Fairmont State University for 33 years. “I was both surprised and honored,” Riesen said. “Teaching has been my passion for the past 34 years, and to be recognized at the state level is astounding. I am honored and humbled to receive the WVCTM College Teacher of the Year Award.”
Colleagues say Riesen is known for his dedication to students inside and outside class. Dr. Brian Blackwood said, “Encouraging students to ask questions, visit office hours or seek help can be difficult, but Dr. Riesen does it successfully. His eyes light up whenever a student arrives for help. He never hesitates to interrupt a conversation with a faculty member with, ‘Gotta go! I have a customer!’ to assist a student.” Former student Julia Oliveto described how his approach transformed her perspective: “No matter how much effort I put in, mathematics always felt abstract and inaccessible. Through innovative projects and a constant emphasis on understanding rather than memorization, Dr. Riesen instilled a love of mathematics in me for the first time… I owe much of that transformation to Dr. Riesen’s teaching and mentorship.”
Riesen has also served as mentor to new faculty members in his department throughout his career.
Fairmont State University reports that it continues its role as an institution preparing future teachers across all grade levels in West Virginia.
