Outstanding performance by faculty members, both in classroom teaching and in demonstrated concern for students in other settings, is recognized annually through the Excellence in Teaching Award presented by the student body, the James A. Davis Recognition Award given by the Alumni Association, and the Finch Award given by the college. A faculty or staff member is chosen each year for the Earnest and Elizabeth Maiden Award, given for outstanding professional contributions to the college.
Research and professional advancement among faculty members are encouraged through generous grants from the Mellon Challenge Fund for Faculty Development and the Reverend E.L. McConnell Scholarship Fund.