The 2026 Outstanding Teaching Awards: Clara Mitchinson

LEXINGTON, Ky. (June 24, 2026) — Clara Mitchinson, a University of Kentucky graduate teaching assistant, is among 10 educators honored with UK’s 2026 Outstanding Teaching Awards.

These awards identify and recognize UK faculty and graduate teaching assistants who demonstrate special dedication to student achievement. Recipients were selected via nomination and reviewed by a selection committee based in the UK Provost’s Office for Faculty Advancement and the Center for the Enhancement of Learning and Teaching.

Currently a Ph.D. candidate in the UK College of Education, Mitchinson has demonstrated exceptional teaching excellence, leadership and adaptability throughout her time in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion. Since joining the department in 2021, she has taught a diverse range of courses, including activity-based fitness classes, laboratory instruction, major-required courses, senior-level exercise science courses, independent studies and study abroad programming.

Beyond her extensive classroom experience, Mitchinson has made a lasting impact through her mentorship of undergraduate students and researchers. She has taught 46 course sections serving more than 800 students and consistently receives outstanding teaching evaluations that exceed departmental and college averages.

As part of this summer series, UKNow connected with Mitchinson to learn more about her experience and approach to teaching.

UKNow: How would you describe your area of expertise and why is the work important right now?

Mitchinson: My area of expertise focuses on exercise physiology, specifically how exercise and nutrition influence fatigue and endurance performance. This work is especially important right now because cardiovascular disease and physical inactivity remain major public health concerns, while interest in evidence-based approaches to improve health and performance continues to grow. At the same time, athletes, clinicians and the general population are increasingly looking for safe, accessible approaches to improve health and performance.

UKNow: What core principles guide your approach to teaching, and how do those show up in your classroom or learning environments?

Mitchinson: My teaching philosophy is grounded in creating an engaging, supportive and evidence-based learning environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and applying concepts to real-world situations. I strive to make complex physiological concepts approachable by connecting course material to clinical practice, exercise performance and everyday health. I also stress the importance of critical thinking and scientific curiosity by encouraging students to assess research, analyze data and build confidence in their problem-solving skills.

UKNow: Can you share a moment — inside or outside the classroom — that affirmed the value of your work as an educator?

Mitchinson: One of the most meaningful parts of teaching for me has been watching students grow more confident in both their understanding of course material and their laboratory skills over time. Many students initially enter exercise physiology courses feeling intimidated by the scientific concepts or hands-on testing procedures, so it is incredibly rewarding to see them become more comfortable, capable, and engaged throughout the semester. Seeing students gain confidence in their abilities, ask thoughtful questions, and begin applying concepts independently consistently reinforces the value and impact of teaching. Those moments remind me that effective education is not only about delivering information, but also about helping students believe in their own potential.

UKNow: What do you hope your students take with them after they leave your courses?

Mitchinson: I hope students leave my courses with both a strong scientific foundation and the confidence to continue learning long after graduation. Beyond understanding exercise physiology concepts, I want them to develop critical thinking skills and the ability to apply evidence-based reasoning in professional settings. I also hope they recognize the value of curiosity and persistence when facing challenges. Ultimately, I want students to feel prepared to contribute meaningfully to their professions and communities.

UKNow: What does receiving the Outstanding Teaching Award mean to you?

Mitchinson: Receiving the Outstanding Teaching Award is incredibly meaningful because it reflects the impact I have made on students throughout my teaching career. Teaching is something I genuinely care deeply about, and I have always aimed to create a learning environment where students feel supported, engaged and capable of succeeding. I am also incredibly grateful to the mentors, faculty and colleagues who have supported and guided me, helping shape me into the educator I am today. This recognition motivates me to continually grow and improve as both an educator and mentor.

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This year’s Outstanding Teaching Awards were given to six faculty and four graduate teaching assistants. Each winner received an award certificate, a commemorative engraved gift and a cash award in recognition of their teaching excellence at a campus ceremony on April 30. Read more about the awardees here.