UMSL Chancellor Tom George (right) surprised Brian Hutchison with the Gerald and Deanne Gitner Excellence in Teaching Award last week. Hutchison is an assistant professor of counseling and family therapy at UMSL.

Brian Hutchison, assistant professor of counseling and family therapy at the University of Missouri–St. Louis, was surprised with the Gerald and Deanne Gitner Excellence in Teaching Award last week by Chancellor Tom George.

Hutchison, a resident of St. Louis, teaches personal and professional development in counseling, school counseling practicum/field experience, foundations of school guidance, multicultural counseling, group counseling, and career counseling and development. He has been with UMSL since 2009.

“I am humbled and extremely honored to receive the Gitner Excellence in Teaching Award. It is my good fortune to witness the dedication and personal development of UMSL students as they pursue a graduate degree and the unique skills required of professional counselors,” Hutchison said. “My thanks go out to my spouse, Marlene, my parents, fellow faculty in the Division of Counseling and Family Therapy and teaching mentors Spencer Niles and Jerry Trusty. Most of all I am thankful for my students who encourage and inspire me toward a personal pursuit of excellence every day.”

Each year, the Gerald and Deanne Gitner Excellence in Teaching Award is given to a faculty member who is in the early stages of his or her career and demonstrates outstanding and innovative teaching abilities.

Hutchison earned a doctorate in counselor education and supervision and his master’s degree in college student affairs counseling from Pennsylvania State University in State College. He earned a bachelor’s degree in social studies/secondary education from Lock Haven University in Pennsylvania.