The Society of Professional Journalists has honored Mike Foley, master lecturer of journalism in the University of Florida’s College of Journalism and Communications, with its 2013 Distinguished Teaching in Journalism Award.

Foley is the first UF journalism teacher to receive the honor, which recognizes outstanding teaching ability, contributions to journalism, journalism education and contributions toward maintaining the highest standards of the profession.  He teaches news reporting and writing.

“I’m flattered with the honor, but I’m more proud to be a part of this College,” Foley said. “I’m gratified by those students and colleagues who nominated me for this prestigious award.”

Foley, who was named a Distinguished Alumnus of the College in 1994, earned his bachelor’s degree in journalism in 1970 and his master’s degree in mass communications in 2004.  He was named Teacher of the Year for both the College and the University in 2007.  Last year he was selected by the Princeton Review as one of the country’s best undergraduate professors in its book, “The Best 300 Professors.”

“Mike continues to bring great distinction to our College, as a teacher and a role model,” said UF College of Journalism and Communications Dean Diane McFarlin. “His passion for journalism is an inspiration to our students and his colleagues, myself included.”

Foley joined the UF faculty in August 2003 after serving nearly 30 years with the Times Publishing Co., which publishes the Tampa Bay Times, the largest newspaper in Florida.

At the Times he served as executive editor, managing editor, metro editor and city editor.  He also worked on the business side of the paper as vice president of community relations.

Foley will be honored at the Excellence in Journalism 2013 conference in Southern California Aug. 24 to 26.

Founded in 1909 as Sigma Delta Chi, SPJ promotes the free flow of information vital to a well-informed citizenry; works to inspire and educate the next generation of journalists; and protects First Amendment guarantees of freedom of speech and press. For more information about SPJ, please visit www.spj.org.

UF College of Journalism and Communications Dean Diane McFarlin talked with Foley about his career and the honor of receiving this award.

In the news:

• Tampa Bay Times: Former Times editor Mike Foley wins national teaching award

Posted: July 24, 2013
Category: Alumni News, College News
Tagged as: Awards, Mike Foley