Vice Provost and EAES Professor Named Outstanding Educator

Dr. Brachfeld is a 2026 recipient of the Outstanding Educator Award from the Association for Women Geoscientists. The Outstanding Educator Award honors well-established women college or university teachers who have played a significant role in mentoring, in teaching, and in outreach. Specifically in the education and support of geoscientists within and beyond the classroom, in advancing the persistence of women and underrepresented minorities in geoscience careers, and in raising the profile of the geosciences by teach to and for the broadest audience of students.

Dr. Brachfeld was nominated by Cathleen Doherty '07 '09, whose nomination letter stood out amongst the applicants emphasizing her great impact as an educator.

Winners must have exemplary achievements in at least two of these categories, however, the committee was particularly impressed with your significant contributions in all three categories. The powerful statements written by your nominator and the letters of support paint the picture of an extremely dedicated geoscience mentor, teacher, and role model. Thank you for all that you do and for providing a model for us all to aspire to. It is truly an honor to present you with this award.

- Crystal Pletka, PhD, AWG-OEA Committee Chair