Students Support Bollert to Receive Costello Excellence in Teaching Award
A faculty member in the philosophy department, Bollert is highly regarded by his students and peers.
At Manhattan College’s annual Costello Lecture, the fifth annual Costello Excellence in Teaching Award was presented to David Bollert, Ph.D., a member of the Philosophy department’s faculty since 2005.
The award is presented to a faculty member in the School of Liberal Arts who is nominated by his or her students.
In nominating Bollert, one student wrote: “After each of his classes, I would find myself in a state of pure wonder. His work was both intellectually and personally challenging.”
Another student explained the impact Bollert had: “Dr. Bollert challenged me as a student to do better for myself … He helps us learn how to explore the world through a thoughtful and critical eye. Thinking critically is an invaluable life skill, and Dr. Bollert has helped me become a critical thinker since I first had him, not only in classes but as a person … His door is always open to any student who is looking for some guidance, a listening ear, or a friend to cry to. Dr. Bollert is a treasure to the Manhattan College community."
Specializing in 20th century continental philosophy and Greek philosophy, Bollert has long coached the College’s debate team and moderated the Phi Sigma Tau honor society, the international philosophy honor society.
“David is beloved by his students,” says Keith Brower, Ph.D., dean of the School of Liberal Arts. “He changes their lives, how they view the world, and they appreciate the faith he has in them as both students and people, and how he encourages and supports their growth, both in and out of the classroom.”
Bollert earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Michigan State University, his M.A. from St. John’s College, and Ph.D. from Boston College.
Thanks to the generosity of Patricia and Jack Stack, the Costello Excellence in Teaching Award each year recognizes a faculty member in the School of Liberal Arts who exemplifies the excellence in teaching that characterizes Manhattan College, and is central to its mission and the mission of the Lasallian Christian Brothers.