Thank A Professor – Saint Leo University Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence

How it Works

Thank a Professor: Celebrating Impact & Gratitude

At the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence (CTLE), we believe that behind every successful student is a dedicated educator who provided a spark of inspiration, a guiding hand, or a word of encouragement.

In the spirit of Radical Hospitality, the CTLE proudly continues our “Thank a Professor” initiative. This is a university wide celebration of the profound impact our faculty have on students’ lives. We invite all Saint Leo students to pause and share a note of appreciation for the professors who have shaped their educational journeys.

Important Dates for 2026

Submissions Open: March 24
Submissions Close: May 8 (Day After Commencement)

How It Works

We have teamed up with Student Affairs, Student Success, and the Registrar’s Office to make it easier than ever for students to spread kindness.

Easy Access: Simply scan the QR codes on flyers found across campus or use the direct submission link provided in university communications.
Global Reach: Whether you are studying on our main campus, at one of our centers or online, your voice matters.
Direct Delivery: Once the CTLE receives your message, our team ensures it is delivered directly to your professor to brighten their day.

Why It Matters

A simple thank you is more than just a polite gesture. It is a significant morale boost for those who dedicate their lives to teaching. Last spring, over 300 students shared heartfelt messages, proving that even a brief note can leave a lasting impact.

Students: Express Your Gratitude!

Has a Saint Leo professor significantly influenced your educational journey? Show your appreciation! A simple thank you can be a great way to acknowledge the positive impact your instructors have had on your life. Your message is a wonderful way to celebrate the dedication of our faculty and the spirit of Radical Hospitality at Saint Leo.

Faculty: Reflecting on Your Impact

“We hope our faculty will take a moment to reflect on these messages of gratitude and realize the enduring impact they have on the Saint Leo community. To our professors: thank you for your tireless dedication to our students!” — The CTLE Team

The Power of a Thank You: Notes from Past Years

I am so thankful and grateful for you. You have been a wonderful professor to me and have taught me more than I can account for. My only regret is that I was not able to have a you as a professor for more courses and if that was a possibility I would have taken it without a single doubt. I want to thank you for all of your hard work and for your openness and genuine interactions with me and the rest of the students. Thank you for making such a great impact on my journey at Saint Leo. Anonymous Student to Prof. Tonya Mazur

Dr. G, thank you for making every class interesting, interactive, and motivational. The time I got to collaborate with other classmates was enlightening. I love that you gave us various avenues to present our weekly discussions and assignments. I am usually not a fan of online classes, but with you at the helm, at times, it was as though I was in the classroom. Thanks again. God bless you and your family. Anonymous Student to Dr. Georgina Rivera-Singletary

Dear Dr. Dean, I wanted to take some time to thank you for all you have done for me, but also all you do for the students at this university. From my year here at SLU, you took me under your wing and have guided me ever since. All questions I have had you have answered and to all problems you have found a solution. You have also believed in me always and that has given me reassurance that I can do this and everything else in life. Thank you for all you do once again, and for always going above and beyond for the saint leo community. You are THE BEST! Anonymous Student to Dr. Passard Dean

Thank you for being an inspiration to us all. Your positive and caring attitude made it easy to join a Zoom class after a long day's work. Your feedback on class assignments allowed me to see my strengths and areas that needed growth. Thank you for making this journey one to remember! Anonymous Student to Dr. Renee Sedlack

I wanted to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude for your invaluable guidance and support. Your classes were really interesting and made me think about things in new ways. I also appreciate how you encouraged me and believed in me. Your support means a lot and has helped me feel more confident in myself. Thank you Dr. Cillo! Anonymous Student to Dr. Joseph Cillo

I am not sure where to even begin. I am overjoyed to be graduating this semester and I am so thankful and appreciative of all your help. You are a wonderful professor and I am so glad that you have been someone that I could count on. Truly, I am so grateful to have met you as a professor, as an advisor, as a counselor and as a person. I hope and I pray that your life will be filled with joy and beautiful luxury shoes and designer bags for making such a great impact on lives of so many students. Anonymous Student to Dr. Kelly Atkins

Thank you Professor Cillo for a great year in your class. Because of you, I have definitely improved as a student and I appreciate your challenging me. You have helped me grow as a student and as a person. I just wanted to say you are one of the best professors I have had the honor of having!!” - to Professor Joseph Cillo

Thank you Dr. Embry for your wisdom and compassion over the last two years. You are a great man, an inspiration, and a fantastic role model. You have given me joy in learning my field of study that no one else has been able to give me. Thank you.” - to Professor Kenneth Embry

Hi Dr. Braziel! I just want to take a second to say that I’m very grateful for having you as a teacher. I got to learn and grow so much in each class. Thank you for taking the time to explain things over and over and finding interesting ways for us to learn. And most importantly, thank you for sharing your experience and stories with us, they help me not just learn but motivated me to keep studying this field.” - to Professor Charlottle Braziel

Thank you for making my first semester in the US a fun one! I loved being in your class and hearing your fun stories. You taught very well and in a way that engaged me. You created a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere and were one of my favorite professors! Thank you so much and best of luck with everything.” - to Professor Kelly Atkins

Thank you for such a great experience in your class, you took me out of my comfort zone when it came to talking in class. Also, thanks for your understanding with my work schedule being changed in the middle of the class.” - to Professor Charmaine Rose

Just a quick THANK YOU for all of your support through the ED.D journey. I know that I can count on you when I have my moments of doubt. Thank you for your willingness to lend a helping hand when needed.” - to Professor Melinda Carver