Howard A. White Award Recipients
This annual award honors the legacy of Pepperdine University's fifth president, Howard A. White, who was a gifted teacher, history scholar, and a faithful steward of the University throughout his 30 years of service to Pepperdine. The highest distinction given at Pepperdine for teaching, the Howard A. White Award recognizes outstanding educators who embody the institution's commitment to excellence. This award highlights the work of educators who inspire and challenge students to think critically and creatively as well as those who instill in their students a lifetime love of learning.
Awards are given in two categories: Category I is for full-time faculty members who have taught at Pepperdine for six or more years or have tenure. This award includes a $5,000 stipend. Category II is for full-time faculty members who have taught at Pepperdine for less than six years and are untenured. This award includes a $2,500 stipend. Awardees will receive a framed certificate and an engraved medal to commemorate their recognition as a Howard A. White award winner.
This year we are delighted to honor six faculty members in Category I and two faculty
members in Category II. We also included excerpts from student nominations below to
highlight the meaningful impact these faculty members make in the lives of their students.
2024 Category I Awardees
Carrie Castañeda-Sound
Associate Professor of Psychology, Graduate School of Education and Psychology
“Dr. Castañeda-Sound is a force of student and client advocacy in a way that is encouraging, inspiring, and uplifting.”
Donald Earl Childress III
Professor of Law, Caruso School of Law
“It was evident that Professor Childress had a high standard for us as students, but what was even more evident was that he genuinely believed that we could meet it.”
Dongkuk Lim
Associate Professor of Accounting, Seaver College
“His love for the Lord is radiant, as is his passion for teaching.”
Lynda H. Palmer
Practitioner of Marketing, Director of Education to Business (E2B), Graziadio Business School
“She’s a beautiful human being, the embodiment of a transformational leader and educator.”
Ty Pownall
Associate Professor of Studio Art, Seaver College
“In his classes I’ve felt encouraged to work hard, try new things and ask as many questions as needed.”
Nicholas J. Zola
Associate Professor of Religion, Seaver College
“Dr. Zola and his Biblical Interpretation course changed my life by giving me permission and the tools to think critically about my faith.”
2024 Category II Awardees
Seung B. Lee
Assistant Professor of Education, Graduate School of Education and Psychology
“His significant influence and enthusiasm turned my academic challenges into opportunities for personal growth and development.”
Brittany Tagliati Corbucci
Visiting Instructor of Italian, Italian Studies Program Coordinator, Seaver College
“Professor Corbucci is the most genuine, professional, and sympathetic professor I have ever had.”