The NDSU chapter of the Blue Key National Honor Society has honored Adnan Akyüz, professor of climatological practice, with its Distinguished Educator Award for 2020. The award was presented Jan. 13.

“When I am in the classroom, I speak loudly and use my hands, arms, and sometimes, my entire body, making me a natural kinesthetic teacher. I walk, run or jump, depending on what I am trying to analogize to keep it as realistic as it is in a natural atmosphere,” Akyüz said. “I always bring props in the classroom, such as a tornado machine, Coriolis table, leaf blower or a hard-boiled egg to explain how some of the forces that shape the atmosphere work. Remote teaching during the pandemic made it very difficult to be an interactive teacher. Receiving this award during the pandemic tells me that my students still found value in my teaching – it makes this award even more meaningful for me.”

Akyüz, who is the state climatologist, was recognized for his efforts to help students, his expertise and dedication to NDSU.

“The NDSU chapter of Blue Key selected Dr. Akyüz for his unwavering dedication to students. His passion for climatology captures students’ interest and encourages their ongoing exploration. His sincere concern for their learning and wellbeing is appreciated in and out of the classroom,” said Margaret Latterell, concert facilities and box office manager and Blue Key adviser. “NDSU is lucky to have educators like Dr. Akyuz on our campus.”

Akyüz joined NDSU in 2007. He earned his bachelor’s degree at Istanbul Technical University and doctorate in atmospheric sciences and meteorology from the University of Missouri-Columbia. He is a member of the Standing Committee on Climate Services Expert Teams with the World Meteorological Organization.

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