• Skagit Valley College instructor Dr. Farhana Loonat receives prestigious national award

(Mount Vernon, Wash.) –– The American Political Science Association (APSA), the largest association of political scientists in the U.S., has awarded Dr. Farhana Loonat, political science and philosophy instructor at Skagit Valley College, the 2024 Community College Faculty Award.  
This honor is presented to a faculty member from one of the 1,167 community colleges nationwide in recognition of their contributions to the advancement of innovative curriculum development, creative teaching practices, equity in mentorship, civic and community engagement, participation in institutional shared governance, and/or the promotion of research. 
“My goal has always been to create an inclusive learning environment that empowers students to engage critically with the world around them,” said Loonat. “This award is a reflection of the collective efforts of my colleagues and students, and I am honored to be acknowledged in this way." 
The award recognizes Loonat’s contributions in these areas, which include efforts to enhance the educational experience and foster an inclusive and engaged learning environment. The award will be presented to Dr. Loonat at APSA's annual conference in Philadelphia this year. 
Loonat holds a master of arts in philosophy from the University of Virginia, a graduate certificate in women and gender studies, and a doctorate of philosophy in political science, both from Vanderbilt University. 
For more about Loonat and this award, visit politicalsciencenow.com/category/annual-meeting-awards/.