The University of North Carolina Board of Governors selected KIMBERLY SMITH BURTON, Ph.D., a mathematics professor at Fayetteville State University, to receive the 2022 Award for Excellence in Teaching.

The award was established in 1993 to highlight the importance of teaching, with Burton being one of 17 faculty members in the system to receive the award.
"Dr. Burton is one of our most outstanding faculty members. She has proven her dedication to our great students and this university," said Provost Monica Terrell Leach, Ed.D. "Moreover, she personifies and daily exhibits the excellence that is required for this exceptional award. We whole-heartedly congratulate her and appreciate the impact she continues to make with students and teachers."
Burton has been with Fayetteville State University since 1994 and has served in several positions, such as interim associate dean for the College of Education, department chair in the Department of Middle Grades, Secondary & Specialized Subjects, and director of Mathematics/Science Education Center.

As a native of Fayetteville, Burton earned her Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from North Carolina Central University, a Master of Arts in Teaching from Fayetteville State University, and a Ph.D. in mathematics education from North Carolina State University.

As an award recipient, Burton will receive a commemorative bronze medal and a $15,000 cash prize.