Auburn University announced the recipients of the 2024 Faculty Awards, celebrating outstanding achievements and contributions across various categories. The university received a record number of competitive nominations in 2024, with multiple recipients selected in several categories for the first time in the program’s 18-year history. This month, 19 distinguished faculty members from nine colleges will be formally recognized and honored for their exemplary leadership, innovative research, scholarship, creative work and dedicated service to the university and the broader community.
Claire Thompson, an assistant clinical professor in the College of Nursing (AUCON), will receive the Alumni Undergraduate Teaching Excellence Award. The Teaching Excellence Awards recognize the outstanding teaching of undergraduates from nominations made by department heads, deans, alumni and students. Three faculty members are selected each year and this year, for the first time ever, the university selected four recipients: an associate professor in the School of Industrial + Graphic Design, a professor and director of International Programs in the Harrison College of Pharmacy, an associate clinical professor in the School of Kinesiology, and an assistant clinical professor in AUCON.
Thompson received glowing endorsements from several AUCON faculty members and students. “Her teaching contributions demonstrate her influence both locally and globally. She was instrumental in developing an updated, evidence-based undergraduate nursing curriculum which was implemented this year. Her involvement in curriculum development reflects her commitment to shaping nursing education at Auburn,” said a colleague.
Another colleague noted that she has witnessed Thompson’s work in primary care both in the U.S. and abroad. “She has been instrumental in setting up nursing outreach clinics and has served as a women's health nurse practitioner, educating students on the intricacies of women’s health and the impact of social determinants on individual care, care planning, and overall wellness. It's no wonder that nearly one-third of our graduates opt to specialize in women’s health after graduation.”
A student summed up Thompson's work ethic by saying, “Ms. Thompson is not only an exceptional teacher and nurse but also a remarkable mentor. She goes above and beyond to support her students in all aspects of life. I feel at ease approaching her with anything on my mind, knowing I can rely on her wisdom and guidance.”
Another student observed Thompson’s steadfast dedication to everyone who came to the clinic in Quito and her deep compassion for the people of Ecuador. “She truly exemplifies what it means to be a nurse.”
Thompson, a faculty member in the College of Nursing since 2017, has had an exemplary 2024! Not only was she inducted into the Global Academy of Teaching at Auburn University for her study abroad programs to England, Scotland and Ecuador. She co-led a successful team of students through England and Scotland for a summer session exposing students to diverse healthcare systems and enhancing their educational experience.
Thompson, who graduated with a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Auburn, received a master’s degree from UAB. Her nursing experience includes neonatal intensive care, women's health, and high-risk pregnancy/maternal-fetal medicine. She teaches primarily in the childbearing and reproductive course.
A certified Women's Health Nurse Practitioner, and a member of Sigma International Honor Society of Nursing, Thompson serves on several committees in the College of Nursing, including the Clinical Committee, the Simulation Committee, and the DAISY Award Committee. At the university level, she serves on the University International Programs Advisory Council. Thompson also practices on a mobile-based clinic, a partnership with East Alabama Health, specializing in preconception and interconception care of reproductive-aged women, especially in marginalized populations.
In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Thompson has contributed to nursing outreach clinics, demonstrating her commitment to women's health education and the influence of social determinants on care. She is one of a few certified nurse practitioners from the College of Nursing who staff the rural healthcare and wellness clinic in LaFayette, in Alabama’s Chambers County. Residents get valuable information and advice on maternal health and other health care needs.
Her expertise enriches the learning experience, covering essential topics such as prenatal care and reproductive health with enthusiasm and clarity. Her students consistently excel, with their standardized test scores in women's health surpassing the national average, highlighting her effectiveness as an instructor.
Thompson is currently pursuing a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), desiring to become a driving force for quality, equitable women's healthcare while eliminating health disparities, and to improve the health of women in Alabama and beyond.
Congratulations to Claire Thompson for the recognition, a testament to her outstanding contributions and dedication to her field.
