Molly McGowan Receives 2026 Isaac L. Jordan Sr. Faculty Award |
“What distinguishes Dr. McGowan is not only what she teaches, but how she teaches it.”
That’s what students and alumni say about Molly McGowan. She is the recipient of the 2025-2026 Isaac L. Jordan Sr. Faculty Award. She received the honor during a ceremony last month. McGowan is Principal Lecturer and Co-director of the EMBA & Executive Education Programs in Saunders College of Business.
Upon receiving the award, McGowan says, “Reflecting on my nearly 30-year career at RIT, I can say without hesitation that this award is among the most meaningful recognitions I have received. The values this award represents—pluralism, inclusion, belonging, and shared success—have been central to my professional identity and have guided my work throughout my career. These principles give purpose, and bring joy to my work, sustain my commitment during challenging times, and continue to motivate me each day. It is incredibly humbling, rewarding, and motivating to know others appreciate and recognize this work as important for the success of our students and the community.
McGowan has served as a faculty member within Saunders College of Business for the past 11 years and previously in Student Affairs for 18 years. She says those positions have allowed her to make meaningful contributions both inside and outside the classroom through teaching, mentoring, advising, programming, and community engagement. She understands the importance of fostering inclusive learning environments.
“I believe that advancing pluralism begins with mindset—an intrinsic commitment to equity, access, and inclusion—and that this mindset ultimately drives meaningful and lasting outcomes.”
She says she is committed to “leveling the playing field” for all.
“I am especially proud of the relationships I have built, the students I have mentored, and the programs I have developed that have supported students from ALANA, Deaf and Hard of Hearing, women, and LGBTQAI+ communities.”
Among the many who support her nomination for the Isaac L. Jordan Sr. Faculty Award are students from different cohorts in the RIT Executive MBA program. The group wrote: “We share a consistent and deeply held experience; Dr. McGowan’s curriculum development and student-centered focus, particularly in the Leadership courses (MGMT – 810 and the Leadership Development Series), significantly enhanced our perspective on leadership, inclusion, and the importance of fostering environments that enable others to thrive.”
They added McGowan’s commitment to student success doesn’t end with graduation.
“Her commitment and classroom teaching style stays with students even after they graduate. Her dedication extends well beyond the classroom. Dr. McGowan consistently invests in students’ long-term success by offering coaching, mentorship, and access to networks.”
They are grateful to her and McGowan says she is appreciative as well.
“I am deeply grateful for the opportunities I have been given at RIT and for the privilege of working in an environment that has allowed me to pursue my passion for advancing inclusion, access, and success for individuals from all backgrounds.”