Ken Kavajacz Honored with Underkofler Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching Award

Madison, Wis. (May 4, 2023) – Dr. Ken Kavajacz has been honored with the 2023 Underkofler Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching Award at Edgewood College.

Chris Raemisch, who graduates Cum Laude with a degree in Business later this month, addressed Faculty and Staff at the award presentation. “Dr. Kavajacz instills a sense of curiosity and wonder into the learning process,” Raemisch said. “He provides insightful advice and encouragement when needed and has made me feel entirely prepared and excited for the future.”

“You will never find Dr. Kavajacz in his office when he is not teaching,” Victoria Palmisano, Associate Dean for Business, Communications, and Innovation, said. “He’s most often found in Wingra Commons, where he works on his courses and grading, and ensures that he is available for students to ask for help.” 

Dr. Kavajecz is Professor of Finance in the Division of Business, Communications, and Innovation at Edgewood College. He earned his undergraduate degree at UW-Madison, and his Masters and Ph.D. at the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University.

The James R. Underkofler Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching Award honors a faculty member, chosen by a committee of faculty, students, and alumni of Edgewood College, who exemplifies the highest standards of teaching excellence. The award is given in honor of James R. Underkofler, a long-time senior executive with Alliant Energy, who retired in 1990. The award pays tribute to Underkofler’s enduring interest in encouraging and promoting undergraduate teaching excellence.

Photo: (l. to r.) Daniel Toennies, ’23, BS Business; Christopher Raemisch, ’23, BS Business; Dr. Victoria Palmisano, Associate Dean, Edgewood College; Dr. Ken Kavajacz, Professor of Finance; Aimee Davis, Alliant Energy Foundation; Julie Bauer, Alliant Energy Foundation; Rebecca Larson, Senior Vice President of Wisconsin Association of Independent Colleges and Universities. Edgewood College Photo.