At Research 1 (R1) universities, tensions persist between research and teaching excellence. Long-standing hierarchies and incentive structures often position teaching as a secondary priority, even as universities thrive in research output, public reputation, enrollment, and graduation rates. If they are already successful by traditional measures, what incentives exist to create a culture that values teaching excellence as a strategic co-priority?

Grounded in experiences of R1 faculty and leaders, this volume documents the development and application of the Framework for Teaching Excellence, a rigorous alternative to traditional metrics to define, support, and recognize excellent teaching in R1 contexts. Through case studies across the academy including mentoring, awards, peer evaluation, and communities of practice, chapters move beyond rhetoric and into action.

This book reflects our commitment to action and to building cultures of continuous improvement in teaching. When institutions invest in teaching excellence, everything improves—faculty engagement, public trust, and student learning and engagement with research, innovation, and lifelong learning.

We invite you to join us in advancing these ideas and creating truly transformative and innovative learning opportunities for all students.