East Michigan News

Dr. Marty Baxter, a professor in the Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences at Central Michigan University (CMU), has been named the recipient of the American Meteorological Society's 2025 Edward N. Lorenz Teaching Excellence Award. This award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated sustained outstanding teaching and mentoring at undergraduate, graduate, or post-doctoral levels, significantly impacting their students.

Dr. Baxter was nominated by Dr. John Allen, a colleague at CMU. In his citation for the award, Dr. Allen highlighted Dr. Baxter's dedication to his students, writing: "For selfless dedication and persistence to teaching and mentoring, tireless advocacy and support for all students, and innovative strategies for preparing students for any career path."

Throughout his two-decade-long career at CMU, Dr. Baxter has distinguished himself as an educator who goes beyond traditional teaching methods. His innovative approach focuses on mentoring students to succeed in any area of meteorology that interests them rather than steering them toward his own areas of expertise. This student-centered approach has proven effective, preparing graduates to thrive in the fast-evolving field of meteorology.

Dr. Baxter acknowledges the challenges of keeping up with rapid changes in various sectors of the field but views this effort as essential for ensuring that his students remain competitive in the job market and are well-equipped to advance the field.

Reflecting on the recognition, Dr. Baxter expressed deep gratitude: "It means a lot to me that my colleagues and former students wanted to recognize my efforts over the past two decades at CMU. I have come a long way since I was a student like those I teach now, and I am forever indebted to so many people who have guided me to be able to make the contributions that I have."

The Edward N. Lorenz Teaching Excellence Award is named after Edward Lorenz, a pioneer in weather forecasting. Receiving an award named in Lorenz's honor is particularly meaningful for Dr. Baxter, whose own teaching and research have centered on weather forecasting.

"I am happy that my work in developing the meteorology program and mentoring students has made a difference in so many lives," Dr. Baxter said. "Those I have taught have gone on to make predictions that protect life and property across the country."

Dr. Baxter's commitment to his students and his field exemplifies the spirit of the Edward N. Lorenz Teaching Excellence Award. His efforts have enriched the CMU meteorology program while leaving a lasting impact on many students he has mentored.