Florida State University School of Information alumna Melissa Johnston was awarded the University of Alabama School of Library and Information Studies’ Student Advisory Council Teaching Recognition Award at the School’s Honors Day held April 4.

Students nominate faculty members for the award by writing letters to describe why the faculty member should win the award based on their teaching.

Johnston, who earned her doctorate in Library and Information Studies from Florida State in 2011, is an assistant professor at Alabama’s School of Library and Information Studies and serves as the School Media Program Coordinator.

“I was very shocked I won – this is only my second year here at UA,” Johnston said. “When I decided to get my Ph.D. it was because I wanted to teach and prepare future school librarians, so my students and teaching are my focus.  This award means a great deal to me because I was chosen by the students.”