Professors Selina K. Farrell and Robert Pushaw, Jr., Honored as Pepperdine University Howard A. White Award Recipients for 2020

Pepperdine Caruso Law Professors Selina K. Farrell and Robert Pushaw, Jr., were presented today with the Pepperdine University Howard A. White Award for Teaching Excellence. The Howard A. White Award is the highest distinction given at Pepperdine University for teaching and recognizes outstanding educators who embody the institution's commitment to excellence. The annual award honors the legacy of Pepperdine University's fifth president, Dr. Howard A. White, who was a gifted teacher and scholar of history and a faithful steward of the University throughout his thirty years of service to Pepperdine. The award highlights the work of teachers who inspire and challenge students to think critically and creatively as well as those who instill in their students a lifetime love of learning.

Professors Farrell and Pushaw both received Category I awards, which are for full-time faculty members who have taught at Pepperdine for six years or more years or have tenure. The following excerpts are from student nominations that highlight the meaningful impact Professors Farrell and Pushaw make in the lives of their students:

Selina Katherine Farrell, Associate Professor of Legal Research and Writing, Caruso School of Law

"She is hands down the most compassionate professor you will ever meet. She shows that she is invested in your growth and your career. She has helped me discover my strengths and address my weaknesses. I will always count on her as a mentor."

Robert Pushaw, Jr., James Wilson Endowed Professor of Law, Caruso School of Law

"His approach to teaching goes beyond hoping students memorize the law, but actually consider it, question it, understand it, and debate it. He welcomes discussion and fosters the exchange of ideas."

This year, in lieu of an in-person awards ceremony, Pepperdine University Provost Rick Marrs hosted a virtual roundtable featuring the awardees to discuss their teaching philosophies and how they continue to support students during this particularly challenging year.

Additional information on the Howard A. White Award and the 2020 Honorees may be found here.