The best feeling for Candice Fulton as a teacher – she has taught at Midwestern State University since 1995 – is seeing a student continue to climb the ladder of success. Knowing she played an important part in those achievements means the world to her.

Fulton, an assistant professor in the Department of Chemistry in the McCoy College of Science, Mathematics & Engineering at MSU Texas who teaches first-year chemistry students, is the recipient of the 2024 Texas Tech University System Chancellor’s Council Distinguished Teaching Award. The award was presented Friday, March 1, by TTU System Chancellor Tedd L. Mitchell, M.D., and MSU Texas President Stacia Haynie.

The research award is one of two awards presented annually at each TTU System component institution through the Chancellor’s Council Distinguished Teaching and Research Awards (CCDTRA) that recognize academic excellence across the TTU System.

Fulton wasn’t expecting to be selected. “I was surprised to be nominated but even more surprised to be chosen,” Fulton said. “I teach with such incredibly talented and passionate professors in my department, college, and campus-wide. To be considered for this award by my peers is truly an honor. I love teaching at MSU Texas and the opportunity to interact with our great students.”

She utilizes several techniques to reach first-year students including implementation of current pedagogical methods, first-year chemistry program analysis and advisement, service learning through community engagement, and exposing students to Ph.D. and master’s degree-level alumni through mentorship and speaker series.

“Teaching freshmen is a difficult but exciting task,” she said. “Introducing students to college-level chemistry and helping them with the first step in their journey to becoming doctors, pharmacists, dentists, and other professionals is the greatest of jobs. When you have a junior or senior who comes back to your office or runs up to you in a parking lot years later excited to tell me they were accepted into medical school or a Ph.D. program, it is just the best feeling. My MSU education and mentors gave me that same feeling and encouragement. I am honored to be able to pay it forward.”

Haynie said that Fulton’s love and enthusiasm for introducing others to chemistry has led to many area students being introduced to MSU Texas. “Candice’s community involvement with programs such as camps for rural and underrepresented groups, K-12 magic shows, and science fair leadership show that her passion and priority has always been for students.” Fulton is a past recipient of the faculty award from Student Government.

Fulton earned her bachelor’s degree from MSU Texas and her master’s degree from the University of North Texas.