Excellence in Teaching, 2025
College of Engineering and Physical Sciences
Lyon is an expert in the interdisciplinary field of applied mathematics. He has been widely recognized by both students and colleagues as an outstanding educator and scholar since joining UNH in 2008. He teaches courses at both the undergraduate and graduate levels in the department of mathematics and statistics and contributed to the conception and success of interdisciplinary programs in the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences (CEPS) including Integrated applied mathematics (IAM) and data science and analytics. His intellectual generosity has earned him a reputation as a highly respected teacher and mentor.
Lyon’s warm personality and deep understanding of course material help him create an open and engaging learning environment for students. He has an exceptional ability to explain complex mathematical concepts in ways that are approachable without oversimplifying. His courses are well-crafted to support each student’s success, and he is consistently available to assist them through his nearly unlimited office hours. One student in his course MATH 753, Introduction to Numerical Methods I, noted that “Dr. Lyon was one of my most impactful instructors while I was at UNH. He framed numerical methods in a practical way that allows me to make quick use of them in my job as an engineer.”
In addition to being a notable teacher, Lyon is a dedicated and supportive graduate mentor. He has demonstrated an unparalleled commitment to his graduate students and their success. He provides technical insight and poses probing questions in just the right measure to encourage growth and ensure progress. His patient guidance has helped his students overcome many obstacles, both personal and professional. As one of his former Ph.D. students in the IAM program remarked, “Dr. Lyon has had a profound impact on my education, and I am sincerely grateful for his guidance, support, and inspiration.” Another advisee stated, “he has had a transformative impact on my education at UNH and has been central to my growth as a Ph.D. student.”
Aside from his exceptional work as a teacher and mentor, Lyon has been a key catalyst for the development and implementation of interdisciplinary academic programming and research in CEPS and at UNH broadly.
About this Award
Each year, the University selects a small number of its outstanding faculty for special recognition of their achievements in teaching, scholarship, and service. Awards for Excellence in Teaching are given in each college and school, and University-wide awards recognize public service, research, teaching, and engagement.
