Beatriz Castro honored for teaching excellence

04-10-2026

In classrooms that reach hundreds of students each year, teaching isn’t just about delivering content—it’s about making learning possible for everyone. For Beatriz Castro, that commitment has earned university-wide recognition.

Castro, a lecturer in the Department of Biological Sciences in Purdue’s College of Science, received the Excellence in Instruction Award for Lecturers, one of the university’s top honors recognizing outstanding teaching.

Presented annually, the award celebrates faculty who demonstrate exceptional dedication to undergraduate education and create meaningful learning experiences for their students. Castro was among a select group of Purdue educators recognized this spring for elevating the student experience through innovative and impactful instruction.

At Purdue, Castro teaches human anatomy and physiology and is known for designing courses that prioritize accessibility and student success. Her approach focuses on creating inclusive learning environments and offering course materials in multiple formats, ensuring students can engage with content in ways that work best for them.

“I've spent many hours rethinking how to make learning work in large classes — creating interactive tools, new ways to study, and opportunities for students to be part of the process,” Castro said. “Receiving this year's Excellence in Instruction Award means a lot to me, because it feels like that work is truly seen and valued.”

Through her teaching and leadership, Castro continues to shape how students experience science at Purdue—making complex material more approachable and helping more students see themselves succeed.

About the Department of Biological Sciences at Purdue University
The Department of Biological Sciences is the largest life sciences department at Purdue University. As part of Purdue One Health, we are dedicated to pioneering scientific discoveries and transformative education at the cutting edge of innovation. From molecules to cells, from tissues to organisms, from populations to ecosystems- we bring together multiple perspectives, integrating across biological scales to advance our understanding of life and tackle the world’s most pressing challenges. Learn more at bio.purdue.edu.

 

Written by: Alisha Willett, Communications Specialist, amwillet@purdue.edu

Contributors: Beatriz Castro, bcastro@purdue.edu