Jon Komperda recognized for ‘excellence in teaching’
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Seeing students excel and thrive is a goal for every dedicated teacher. For Clinical Associate Professor and Director of Undergraduate Studies Jonathan Komperda, helping students succeed is the central purpose of teaching.
For his dedication, Komperda received one of UIC’s most prestigious teaching awards: the 2026-2027 Award of Excellence in Teaching.
The award from the Office of the Vice Provost for Faculty Affairs recognizes faculty with 10 or more years of service at UIC for their exceptional contributions to teaching effectiveness.
“I see this award as an affirmation that evidence-based, student-centered teaching can make a real difference in students’ learning, confidence, and educational outcomes,” Komperda said. “What makes the recognition especially meaningful is that it reflects not only my efforts, but also the effort, growth, and persistence of the students I have had the privilege to teach. It motivates me to keep improving as an educator and to continue creating learning environments where students can thrive.”
He particularly enjoys working with students on senior design projects, where each year brings new, novel, industry-connected challenges.
“These projects create a dynamic learning environment in which students are not simply applying what they have learned but also developing as engineers, collaborators, and problem-solvers,” Komperda said. “I value being able to participate in the design process with them. The projects are open-ended and often challenging in ways that require all of us, me included, to think creatively. I learn alongside the students, and I am challenged by the problems just as they are. That shared process of discovery, design, iteration, and growth is extremely fun and deeply rewarding.”
As a teacher, his goal is to create a learning environment where students feel supported, challenged, and capable of succeeding. He wants them to leave with a strong understanding of the material and greater confidence in their ability to think critically, solve problems, and apply what they have learned beyond the classroom.
“To me, effective teaching means meeting students where they are, setting high expectations, and giving them the tools, structure, and encouragement they need to grow. I want students to recognize their own potential and to develop the skills and confidence that will serve them in their academic, professional, and personal lives,” he said.
The entire MIE faculty cares deeply about student outcomes and works to create learning environments where students can grow academically, professionally, and personally. They are dedicated to creating an atmosphere in which students are supported, challenged, and prepared for success.
“We place a strong emphasis on project-based learning, teamwork, communication, and hands-on skills. Through coursework, senior design, laboratories, and student organizations such as American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics and Society of Automotive Engineers, students have opportunities to apply what they learn to real-world problems and develop as engineers, collaborators, and leaders,” Komperda said. “I want prospective students to know that they are not alone here. Their success is our success, and we are committed to helping them build the confidence, skills, and experience they need to thrive.”