Cindy Prins, Ph.D., M.P.H., a clinical assistant professor in the department of epidemiology, has been selected by UF public health students for the 2012 Public Health Award for Faculty Excellence.
The award recognizes a UF faculty member who has made significant contributions to public health through teaching, research or service. Master of Public Health students manage the annual award’s nomination and voting process.
“Dr. Prins always goes the extra mile to work with her students and tries very hard to make classes fun and engaging, and not just a lecture with minimal participation,” said Emily Jones, president of the UF Public Health Student Association. “I know that many students feel that she is their advisor because she is always available to answer basic life and career questions, and is so active in her role as the concentration coordinator.”
Prins joined the faculty of the department of epidemiology in 2010. She teaches courses on public health biology and principles of epidemiology and she is the Master of Public Health epidemiology concentration coordinator.
“It means so much to me to be recognized by the M.P.H. students with this award,” Prins said. “Their enthusiasm about public health is infectious and that’s really what motivates me to try to do my best in the classroom. They make teaching fun for me, so I’m thrilled that I can make learning fun for them.”
Prins receives an honorarium and a plaque. A brass plate with her name will be added to the Public Health Award for Faculty Excellence plaque on display in the College of Public Health and Health Professions.
“Dr. Prins teaches more students in the Master of Public Health program than any other faculty member in epidemiology. She makes an impact on them. We are very proud of her,” said Linda Cottler, Ph.D., M.P.H., chair of the department of epidemiology.