Blue Key National Honor Society has named Amy O'Connor the 2009 Distinguished Educator. She is an assistant professor of communication. The Distinguished Educator award is given to a faculty member who goes above and beyond the call of simply teaching his or her students.

According to her nomination letter, O’Connor was selected for taking a vested interest in assisting students, ensuring that class material is relevant and teaching in an engaging manner.

O’Connor began teaching at NDSU in 2004 and, according to her students, has proven herself to be a standout educator. “I truly enjoy taking classes from Dr. O’Connor. She presents material that is engaging, then challenges her students to think beyond the classroom and apply what we’re learning to the real world," says Annie Wohl, a senior majoring in public relations and advertising.

Blue Key Honor Society recognizes college students for balanced and all-around excellence in scholarship, leadership and service. The organization will honor O’Connor at a banquet on Dec. 9.