Faculty to Receive Awards at Commencement

Four faculty members will be honored for exceptional accomplishments in the areas of teaching, scholarship, service, and contributions to the All-University Curriculum at the university’s 48th annual Commencement Ceremony on Sunday, May 15.

Robert Carl, professor of composition and music theory, will receive the James E. and Frances W. Bent Award for Scholarly and/or Artistic Creativity. Carl arrived at The Hartt School in 1984 as one of the most promising young composers of his generation. Since then, both Hartt and the university have had the pleasure of watching him fulfill that promise, becoming an accomplished, mature, and internationally respected artist while extending the boundaries of his personal commitment to music, teaching, and the community.

The Donald W. Davis All-University Curriculum Award will be presented posthumously to Peter Harvey. Harvey was a brilliant musician and educator with a quick wit and engaging personality, and when he died last month at the age of 59, the loss was felt throughout Greater Hartford. A well-known conductor, composer, singer, and performer, Harvey taught music for many years in the All-University Curriculum and at Hartford College for Women. He held a master’s and doctoral degree from The Hartt School.

Raymond J. McGivney, professor of mathematics, will receive the Oscar and Shoshana Trachtenberg Award for Service to the University. For 35 years, McGivney has given unselfishly to his students, the College of Arts and Sciences, and the university. A commited teacher and mentor, he has helped generations of students master the most complex material in the study of mathematics by helping them understand how math relates to familiar situations.

Harald Sandström, associate professor of politics and government, will receive the Roy E. Larsen Award for Excellence in Teaching. A member of the Department of Politics and Government since 1969, a faculty colleague describes Sandström as the “embodiment of excellence in teaching.” With noteworthy patience, he cares exceptionally for the needs, strengths, and interests of his students. He works continually to improve his teaching and to discover new methods that enable students to learn and succeed.