For more than a decade, Jennifer “Jenny” Ingwerson-Niemann, a senior lecturer in the University of Wyoming’s Department of Animal Science, has served as UW’s only equine science instructor.
For her dedication to hands-on education and the UW community, Ingwerson-Niemann is among 10 recipients of the John P. Ellbogen Meritorious Classroom Teaching Award, established in 1977 by businessman John P. “Jack” Ellbogen to “foster, encourage and reward excellence in classroom teaching at UW.”
“She represents the very best of what a university educator should be: knowledgeable, passionate, deeply committed to her students, and dedicated to creating meaningful learning experiences that extend far beyond the classroom,” wrote a UW graduate who completed an equine science minor at UW.
Nominators note Ingwerson-Niemann’s ability to make complex material approachable and engaging. She also encourages students to choose projects that are relevant to their own interests and goals, tailoring learning opportunities to the specific individuals in her classes.
“Course evaluations consistently demonstrate high levels of student agreement that she encourages active participation, is enthusiastic about teaching, and presents course content in engaging ways,” says Dana Dittoe, an assistant professor in the Department of Animal Science.
Ingwerson-Niemann uses experiential, field-based opportunities to help her students make professional connections within the equine industry and understand the practical applications of concepts she teaches in the classroom. She has led visits to facilities across the West, giving students opportunities to work directly with respected equine industry professionals.
“Her teaching style is interactive, industry-focused, and hands-on, consistently encouraging students to connect scientific concepts to real-world applications within the equine industry,” wrote an undergraduate student.
Ingwerson-Niemann has actively pursued professional development opportunities throughout her career at UW. She also has shared her knowledge with others, delivering presentations on experiential learning, ethics education, and innovative grading approaches at national and international teaching conferences. She regularly engages with UW’s Ellbogen Center for Teaching and Learning as a participant and as a mentor to others.
Ingwerson-Niemann is invested in the success of those around her. She is known for helping both students and colleagues develop new skills, find opportunities, and build confidence.
“In every aspect of her work—classroom teaching, experiential learning, student mentorship and faculty development—[Jennifer] Ingwerson-Niemann demonstrates a genuine commitment to educational excellence,” says Dittoe, who considers Ingwerson-Niemann’s mentorship critical to her own development as an educator.
Ingwerson-Niemann is involved with multiple professional equine associations. She holds a leadership position with the American Quarter Horse Association. She frequently dedicates her time to Wyoming 4-H and other UW Extension programs and has received UW awards for her service and ethical leadership.
Ingwerson-Niemann is pursuing a Ph.D. in education from UW. She earned her master’s degree in animal physiology from Iowa State University and received her bachelor’s degree in animal science from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
