To recognize the contributions of graduate students who teach, the first award for outstanding teaching assistants will be awarded this semester.

"It will recognize the contribution the graduate assistant makes to the undergraduate mission," said Associate Dean for Fellowships and Awards Richard McCarl.

Raja Ramani, chairman of the Committee on Fellowships and Awards that determined award guidelines, said a University of this magnitude should recognize all teachers.

"If we expect them to teach, we should award them," he said.

The assistant must have taught for at least two semesters to be eligible. Any student, staff, clerical, or faculty member may nominate a graduate assistant.

McCarl said the award is jointly funded through the Graduate School and the Office of the Vice Provost and Dean of Undergraduate Education.

A screening committee, chosen by the Dean of the Graduate School, will review applications and determine which nominees will receive further consideration.

These nominees will be sent to the student's individual college for a more detailed dossier.

The committee will contain representatives from the Instructional Development Program in the Office of the Vice Provost and Dean of Undergraduate Education, Physical Science and Engineering, Life Science, Social and Behavioral Sciences, and Arts and Humanities. At least one award will be awarded to a student in each of these areas but McCarl said the total number is undetermined.

Criteria for selecting recipients include: mastery of subject matter, effectiveness of presentation, availability to students, use of clear and fair student evaluation techniques and rapport with students.

"We looked at one's we want to see in our TAs," Ramani said.

One student said the award might inspire teaching assistants to take their positions more seriously.

"I think it's certainly good to recognize the efforts of TAs who go above and beyond the call of duty," said Amy Yerkes (graduate-English).

Each awardee will receive a plaque and undetermined cash amount.

Nominations must be received by the Graduate School by March 9. Winners will be announced April 20.

Rosalia Cornejo (graduate-Spanish) said graduates in her department often have the same responsibilities as professors.

Professors receive awards, said Christiane Eydt (graduate-German), so "Why shouldn't graduate students get it? They're teaching as well?"