Four faculty, two each in CBS departments and graduate groups, are among this year’s recipients of the Academic Senate and Federation top awards. They are in a cohort of 15 academics across various disciplines throughout the university to be recognized. 

The awards cite the impact these academics have had on their fields, on UC Davis students and on the broader community through public service.

Academic Senate

Distinguished Scholarly Public Service Award

Verónica Martínez Cerdeño

Professor, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine; Molecular, Cellular and Integrative Physiology Graduate Group; Neuroscience Graduate Group

Professor Verónica Martínez Cerdeño in the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine exemplifies sustained and transformative public service through her leadership in neuroscience outreach, education, and health equity. As founder of The Ventricular Foundation, she has developed culturally responsive, bilingual programs that increase knowledge about the brain to educate K-12 students, families and communities historically underrepresented in STEM. Her work integrates mentorship, community partnerships and international Spanish-language initiatives addressing neurodevelopmental disorders. Through these efforts, she has expanded public understanding of science, inspired future scientists and health professionals, and strengthened inclusive pathways into research and medicine at local, national and global levels.

Distinguished Teaching Award – Undergraduate Teaching

Laci Gerhart

Associate Professor of Teaching, Department of Evolution and Ecology

Professor Laci Gerhart combines extensive pedagogical knowledge and skill with enormous dedication to students. She brings passion and talent to all classes, small and large. Even in courses with more than 500 students enrolled, she makes a meaningful effort to get to know her students both inside and outside of class. Professor Gerhart has been engaged and creative in advancing the use of technology and modern teaching methods, as well as in integrating her teaching into campus life. She is a wonderful mentor to graduate students and postdoctoral scholars, whose teaching skills have grown enormously under her thoughtful guidance.

Nitzan Shabek

Associate Professor, Department of Plant Biology; Plant Biology Graduate Group; Integrative Genetics and Genomics Graduate Group; Biochemistry, Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology Graduate Group

Associate Professor Nitzan Shabek is an inspiring and dynamic educator who “makes complex biochemical concepts come alive for students.” His teaching is infused with real-world examples of scientific triumphs, demonstrating how persistent curiosity leads to innovation. Professor Shabek devotes considerable effort in connecting with students, learning and remembering the names of hundreds of students. He fosters an accessible and nurturing learning environment that enables students to see a seat for themselves at the table of science. His outstanding and inclusive mentorship is reflected in the numerous accolades and achievements of his mentees.

Distinguished Teaching Award – Graduate and Professional Teaching 

Damian Genetos

Professor, Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Cell Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine; Molecular, Cellular and Integrative Physiology Graduate Group

Professor Damian Genetos is dedicated to optimizing student experience and fostering global understanding. As chair of the Integrative Pathobiology Graduate Group, he redesigned core curriculum and transformed it to emphasize foundational skill-based learning. Integrating his own reassessment of renal anatomy and physiology, he identified areas of difficulty for students and revised sessions to improve clarity of concepts. Despite teaching large classes, he is praised for his personalized interaction with students and his advocacy for their mental health and work-life balance. Professor Genetos’ commitment to teaching and students has created lasting relationships, and his mentorship has positively affected his students’ lives.