Lolita Pérez-Ayala, a PhD candidate in the Communication and Information Sciences interdisciplinary program at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, is a 2026 recipient of the Frances Davis Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching for graduate assistants. The campus-wide honor recognizes educators who demonstrate outstanding dedication to undergraduate education.
Teaching courses like COM 320: Communication and Communities and COM 432: Social Media, Pérez-Ayala utilizes collaborative activities, case-based learning, and interactive tools to foster critical thinking.
“This award is an affirmation of a student-centered curriculum,” Pérez-Ayala said. “It allows me to bring student voices and experiences into the classroom so they can take these learnings and apply them in the real world.”
Dr. Wayne Buente, Communication Program Graduate Chair, nominated Pérez-Ayala for the award, commending her “consistent excellence in subject mastery, innovative pedagogy, and personal dedication to student success.” He highlighted her ability to translate complex concepts into meaningful, real-world learning experiences.
Students mirror this praise in course evaluations, highlighting her organization, deep understanding, and supportive classroom environment. “The professor is very well spoken and has a very deep understanding of every topic because of her own experience,” wrote one student in a course evaluation. Another added, “Her ability to seek understanding and come down to the place where we are is amazing.”
While honored by the recognition, Pérez-Ayala emphasized that her students remain her ultimate inspiration.
“I look at this as an opportunity to continue learning from my students,” she said. “I’m excited for this award, but ultimately, I’m inspired by their perspectives and the conversations we have in the classroom.”
Established in memory of the late Frances Davis, who taught mathematics at Leeward Community College and UH Mānoa for 19 years, the highly competitive award is celebrated annually at the Mānoa Awards Ceremony. Pérez-Ayala’s selection reflects the School of Communication and Information’s commitment to inclusive, applied learning experiences that prepare students to engage thoughtfully with the wider world.