FSU’s Dr. Angela Luvara Honored With Outstanding Faculty/Staff Award

May 8, 2023 8:00 AM

Professor Recognized for Contributions to, Support of Students

At the 2023 Frostburg State University Leadership and Engagement Awards celebration held on May 4 and hosted by the Office of Student Engagement, Dr. Angela Luvara, an assistant professor in FSU’s Department of Sociology and the coordinator of Women’s Studies at FSU, was honored with the Outstanding Faculty/Staff Award.

This award recognizes an outstanding faculty or staff member for their support of and contributions to FSU students over the past academic year. Recipients have demonstrated excellence in their roles on campus and go above and beyond their job duties when interacting with students.

“I grew up in Keyser, WV, so accepting a position as a faculty member here at Frostburg State two years ago was the most special decision I have made in my work life. It truly has felt like coming home both personally and professionally,” said Dr. Luvara.  

Luvara, or Dr. Angie as she is more commonly referred to at FSU, was presented her award by graduating senior and sociology major, Mae Reyno. “Ever since I took her introduction to women’s studies course, she has been an incredible person whom I always feel safe to go to if there is anything at all going on in my life, good or bad,” said Reyno. “Besides being an amazing person, she is also one of the best educators I have ever had.”

“To be recognized at this very special institution, and to be presented the award from one of the most amazing students I’ve had the pleasure of teaching and mentoring in my 10-year career in higher education, is such an honor.” Dr. Luvara continued, “All the ways that I show up as a professor and mentor are a reflection of the many outstanding educators I’ve had in my past, and all of the students who push me and inspire me to be the best version of myself in the classroom and beyond.”

Described as fearless, kind and considerate, Luvara is engaging in the classroom and a fierce ally to the LGBTQ+ community, always encouraging her students to join in her activism. She provides students the opportunity to learn and grow and be themselves without fear of judgment, adapting her teaching style to meet the needs of everyone.

As the coordinator of Women’s Studies at FSU, Luvara helps her students explore the impact that women have had across cultures and throughout history. The course highlights gender, culture and other factors that have a role in the workings of our society. This spring, Luvara’s Women’s Studies program hosted a Spring Speakers Series featuring three scholars and activists who had the opportunity to share their thoughts on a variety of social issues impacting students’ lives.

For more information about FSU’s Leadership and Engagement Awards, contact the Lane University Center at 301-687-4411 or visit the Leadership and Engagement Awards web page.