Longtime BGSU Firelands faculty member honored for teaching excellence, commitment to students

Michael Kimaid recognized for mentorship and impact across generations of students

By Patrick Pfanner '14

For Dr. Michael Kimaid, teaching isn’t just about coursework. It’s about curiosity, community and seeing the world with fresh eyes.  

Kimaid, a longtime faculty member at BGSU Firelands, was named a Distinguished Teaching Professor — an honor that recognizes his interdisciplinary approach, dedication to students and passion for academic growth.  

“It’s humbling,” Kimaid said. “When I sit around a table with my colleagues here at the Firelands campus or at the BG campus, I’m in awe of their knowledge, their command of their fields and their comprehensive understanding of academic matters. I think of this recognition as a reflection of the collaborative environment at BGSU, and especially here at Firelands.”  

Since joining BGSU in 2003, Kimaid has taught courses in history and geography, often blending disciplines in ways that challenge students to think critically about the world around them.  

“Dr. Kimaid has consistently demonstrated an exceptional mastery of his subject matter,” said Dr. Allia Carter, dean of BGSU Firelands. “His student-centered approach, innovative pedagogy and experience across both campuses truly set him apart. He embodies excellence in education, and we are so proud of this recognition.”

Kimaid’s classroom is one where rigor meets empathy. He sets high expectations but walks alongside students as they meet him, learning and growing in real time.  

“Setting a high bar means challenging students to practice real academic discipline,” Kimaid said. “At first, the rigor can be overwhelming — but over time, they grow into it. They develop as scholars.”  

That growth often extends beyond the classroom. In one of his American history courses, students research local historical markers, visit them in person and reflect on the ways the past still resonates in present-day landscapes. The result? Places they’ve walked by for years suddenly come alive with meaning.  

“It’s a great lesson in how history resonates in the places we live,” Kimaid said.  

Engagement, he added, starts with him.  

“If I keep myself excited, the students will be too,” he said. “They get to research topics that matter to them — things tied to their careers, their hobbies, their curiosity. That kind of freedom gives them a deeper appreciation for history and helps them grow both academically and personally.”  

Kimaid credited recently retired faculty member Tim Jurkovac for nominating him for the Distinguished Teaching Professor honor.  

“Tim was my mentor and friend from my first day on the job,” he said. “This is a parting gift I’ll always appreciate.”  

He also thanked Carter, his departmental colleagues, BGSU Firelands faculty and staff, his students and his family.  

“I’m grateful for their trust, their support and their belief in what we do here,” he said.