Sarah Dahlen

California State University, Monterey Bay (CSUMB) Associate Librarian Sarah Dahlen is one of 25 faculty across the California State University (CSU) system to be awarded the Faculty Innovation and Leadership Award (FILA).

Dahlen has improved students’ information literacy skills by creating CSUMB's Information Literacy Assignment Guide, Rubric and Rubric Guide. She has also supported tutors in the university’s Cooperative Learning Center and designed an infographic about information literacy that transformed the way CSUMB faculty teach..

“Dahlen is keenly focused on using evidence to improve pedagogy and instructional design to support learning,” Library Dean Frank M. Wojcik said. “She consistently strives to close the loop, continuously improving teaching and learning.”

FILA was created by the CSU to honor faculty who have implemented innovative practices, improve student success or close equity gaps. According to CSU Chancellor Timothy P. White, this year’s recipients have proven exceptional even through the unprecedented challenges of 2020.

Out of hundreds of nominations, only 25 faculty have received the Faculty Innovation and Leadership Award. Each awardee will receive $5,000, and $10,000 will be allocated to their academic department to support innovation, leadership and student success.