French government bestows the ‘Palmes Académiques’ upon DePaul professor
July 3, 2012
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Andrew Suozzo, professor of Modern Languages and French Section head, has been honored by induction into the Ordre des Palmes Académiques, or Order of Academic Palms, for his “services rendered to French culture.” The award, originally founded to honor members of the University of Paris, is given to academic, cultural and educational figures.
The award grants Suozzo the title of “Officier” and is the second-highest rank in the order. “I was very touched by being granted this award,” says Suozzo. “It recognizes a lifetime of effort in promoting the study of French language, literature and culture.”
Charles Suchar, dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, is proud of Suozzo’s well-deserved award. “Andrew Suozzo's receipt of this distinguished award and recognition from the French government gives added testimony to his significant contributions to French culture and French language education over the many decades of his career here at DePaul,” says Suchar. “This award recognizes Professor Suozzo's dedication to enriching students' understanding of and proficiency in French language and literature.”
Suozzo, who has been at DePaul for more than 30 years, teaches French literature, all levels of French language and French culture/civilization from the earliest times to the current day. He has won national journal prizes for his writing on the pedagogy of French culture and chaired the American Association of Teachers of French sub-committee on cultural guidelines.
“I hope this award will reflect well on the university,” says Suozzo. “Working at DePaul, particularly as chair of the modern language department for 11 years, helped contribute to my award candidacy.”
Besides his work in French, Suozzo has taught LGBTQ history for more than a decade as part of the multicultural sophomore seminar. He has also led a Discover/Explore Chicago course on the athletic, economic and social impact of the Chicago Marathon.