Shelly Schreier, teaching professor and Neil M. Kalter Collegiate Lecturer of Psychology in LSA, is one of three recipients of the 2026 Michigan Distinguished Professor of the Year Award.
The awards are presented annually by the Michigan Association of State Universities to recognize outstanding contributions and dedication to the education of undergraduate students exhibited by the faculty from Michigan’s 15 public universities.
The Michigan Distinguished Professor of the Year award recognizes the outstanding contributions and dedication exhibited by the faculty from Michigan’s 15 public universities to the education of undergraduate students. Each university was invited to nominate a faculty member who has had a significant impact on undergraduate student learning through various activities, including classroom instruction, applied research, experiential learning and mentoring.
Schreier received her bachelor’s degree, master’s degree and doctorate in clinical psychology from U-M. A transformative educator whose distinguished career reflects an extraordinary commitment to undergraduate education, mentorship and student success, Schreier has taught more than 26,000 students across large lectures, first-year seminars, and independent studies.
She is widely recognized for her ability to “awaken joy in learning” and to create a positive, inspiring environment in which students feel seen, supported, and challenged.
Schreier is perhaps best known for her teaching of Introductory Psychology, a gateway course she has taught more than 60 times, where students develop critical thinking skills, learn to evaluate evidence, and gain a deeper appreciation for scientific inquiry.
