University of Richmond Professor Receives State Award for Teaching Excellence

UNIVERSITY OF RICHMOND — Aslan Lotfi, assistant professor of analytics & operations in the University of Richmond Robins School of Business, has been awarded the H. Hiter Harris III Rising Star Award from the Virginia Foundation for Independent Colleges for his dedication to undergraduate teaching.

The Rising Star Award recognizes faculty who demonstrate strong commitment to student success. One faculty nominee is selected across VFIC institutions, which includes 17 traditional independent liberal arts colleges in Virginia. The recipient receives a monetary award to support their future research or professional development.

“Aslan is the consummate teacher and mentor,” said Mickey Quiñones, dean of the business school. “He is enthusiastic about his subject matter — and that enthusiasm rubs off on students. He is also a world-class scholar.”

Lotfi’s current research uses predictive analytics and mathematical models to analyze how digital advertisements influence the adoption of new products.  

In describing his teaching philosophy, Lotfi shared his belief in the transformative power of ensuring all students feel seen in the classroom.

“I concentrate on offering students as much time and support as possible while treating them with dignity and respect,” Lotfi said. “I hope to convey the message that there are people who genuinely care about them.”