James W. Cooper Wins 2026 UIC Silver Circle Award for Teaching Excellence

Posted on May 13, 2026

Student-selected honor recognizes his impact on teaching and mentorship

James W. Cooper receives the Silver Circle Award from Dean Sandy Wayne during the UIC College of Business commencement, with the dean facing away from the camera.
James W. Cooper receives his engraved memento from Dean Sandy J. Wayne in recognition of his 2026 Silver Circle Award win at the UIC College of Business Administration commencement.

James W. Cooper, Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Managerial Studies, has been named a recipient of the 2026 UIC Silver Circle Award for Teaching Excellence, one of the university’s highest honors for undergraduate instruction.

Established in 1966, the Silver Circle Award recognizes faculty who demonstrate exceptional dedication to teaching and student learning. What sets the award apart is its selection process—recipients are chosen directly by graduating seniors, which is a testament to the impact faculty have on their students’ academic and personal development.

As part of the honor, Professor Cooper was recognized at the UIC College of Business Administration commencement ceremony on May 8 with an engraved memento. In addition, he will receive a $500 award and will join a distinguished group of UIC faculty whose names are permanently displayed on the Silver Circle Award plaque in the Richard J. Daley Library.

Modified on May 13, 2026