Computer Science Professor Named 2024 Distinguished Educator

Eastern Florida State College recently announced that Associate Professor Karen Peterson has been recognized as the 2024 Distinguished Educator.

Peterson teaches computer science on the EFSC Melbourne Campus. Her nominator, Martha Upton, described her as an “incredible teacher, deeply committed to her students, and an asset to the college.”

The nomination expounded on her classroom techniques that “set students up to succeed from the start.”

“Sometimes I look at the computer code I have written and am amazed at how far I have come in just a few semesters,” said Upton.

“I do not believe that would have been possible without Ms. Peterson’s expert teaching, genuine goodwill and cheerful support.”

Peterson is also key to an annual EFSC programming competition that brings together students from many Florida colleges to show off their talents. In 2023 this extremely popular event drew a record number of competitors.

“I feel very honored that someone took the time to nominate me for the Distinguished Educator Award and that the commitment I feel for my students, the college, my fellow faculty and staff, and professional area of expertise is apparent to others,” said Peterson.

“Computer science is ever-changing. It is imperative to be current in my instruction so that my students’ learning is also up to date. I am still a practicing engineer, and I believe this gives them more confidence that they are truly learning the skills they need to be successful in their future careers.”

Dr. Phil Simpson, EFSC’s Chief Learning Officer, announced the honor at the faculty Welcome Back event held at the King Center for Performing Arts.

“The positive impact Karen has on her students is truly inspirational and sets an amazing example for others. She has dedicated herself to the use of best practices that build confidence and ensure academic success, as well as giving so much of herself in the process. We are pleased to recognize her in this way.”

EFSC President, Dr. James Richey added “We are all very proud of the impact Associate Professor Peterson has had on our students.  She is one of the many outstanding faculty we have who make EFSC the very special college that it is.”

Nominations for the Distinguished Educator award are made annually by faculty, staff, and currently enrolled students.

The honor includes a $1,500 award provided by the EFSC Foundation.

For more information on EFSC and the Distinguished Educator Award, visit easternflorida.edu.

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