CLU psychology professor honored

(THOUSAND OAKS, Calif. - May 10, 2010) A California Lutheran University alumna who has taught at her alma mater for 35 years has received the President's Award for Teaching Excellence.

Psychology professor Julie Kuehnel of Camarillo received the award at the Honors Day Banquet on April 30. A former CLU president created the Teaching Excellence award in 1995 to recognize professors who are held in high esteem by their peers, the students and the university community.

A psychology major who graduated with honors from CLU in 1969, Kuehnel earned a doctorate in educational psychology from the University of Texas at Austin and returned to her undergraduate alma mater to join the faculty in 1975. She teaches courses in abnormal psychology, counseling and psychotherapy, applied psychology, and criminal psychology.

Kuehnel is an enthusiastic professor and her highly interactive courses challenge students to apply theory and concepts to case studies, problems, and issues.

"Learning facts is only the first step in education," says Kuehnel, chair of the social and behavioral sciences division. "Students must learn to evaluate, analyze and apply material to become educated."

Students rave about the interesting small group discussions in Kuehnel's classes and her creative, meaningful assignments, all of which help them better understand psychology and decide on the professional path they will pursue. Kuehnel, a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in behavior therapy, is an inspiring professor who also focuses on mentoring students toward fulfilling their career aspirations.

She co-wrote the 2004 book "Evil Minds: Understanding and Responding to Violent Predators" with CLU criminal justice professor Robert J. Meadows. She has also published a book on marital therapy, journal articles and book chapters on behavior therapy and the treatment of mental disorders.