Otterbein New Teacher of the Year Inspires Students and Colleagues Alike

Posted May 28, 2021

The Otterbein University 2021 New Teacher of the Year award has been awarded to Aida Odobasic, assistant professor of economics. This peer-nominated award is given to Otterbein faculty members in their first three years who exemplify excellence in five principles of teaching: knowledge, design, praxis, relationship, and assessment. 

Aida Odobasic
Professor Aida Odabasic

“She has such an infectious passion for teaching economics that it re-ignited my own passion for teaching,” wrote one nominating colleague. 

Odobasic describes her teaching philosophy as being centered on creating an atmosphere in which students feel empowered, engaged, and ready to take ownership of deep and meaningful learning. She challenges her students to develop critical thinking by asking thought-provoking economics questions.  

“I make it clear that intellectual and personal growth is a journey that requires hard work and that I will provide support along the way,” Odobasic said. 

Her students have taken notice of her commitment to their educational progress. One student commented on Odobasic’s care for her students, seeing potential in every individual in the classroom. They especially appreciate how she can take the coursework and show its direct application to their future careers. 

“Rather than lecturing the students, she aspires to teach us in a way that is practical for success in and outside of the classroom, relating every topic to the real world,” the student wrote. 

Congratulations to Professor Aida Odobasic, the 2021 Otterbein University New Teacher of the Year!