Isaac Stewart, associate professor of biology at Black Hawk College, has been honored with the National Association of Biology Teachers’ Chan Two-Year College Award for the Engaged Teaching of Biology. Stewart, recognized for impacting students beyond the classroom, received news of the award while leading a field trip exploring local biodiversity, underscoring his commitment to immersive learning. Specializing in bumble bee diversity and decline, Stewart involves students in hands-on research at sites like Illiniwek Forest Preserve and the Green River Lowland. He also provides community education on lesser-known insects and serves on the board of the Illinois Audubon Society.
“My favorite irony is that I received notification of this award while out in the field leading a group of adventure field trip attendees exploring the biodiversity of my field sites where I conduct my insect survey research,” Stewart said.
“I think this exemplifies my view of teaching in that there is nothing more valuable than the immersive experience to help learners grow,” he said.
In Hampton, Isaac Stewart is inspiring the next generation of scientists by combining classroom and fieldwork. At Illiniwek Forest Preserve and Green River Lowland Preserve, his Black Hawk College biology students meticulously study bee populations and conduct insect surveys, revealing the vital role invertebrates play in ecosystem health. Stewart also shares his expertise with the public through community talks on lesser-known insects, highlighting their unique contributions. As an Illinois Audubon Society board member, he champions conservation and education across the state. Stewart’s roots in Dixon and early work at Nachusa Grasslands shaped a passion that now drives his innovative instruction and research.
“Every field season yields new, fascinating versions of what the invertebrate world has to offer,” he said.
Isaac Stewart’s lifelong fascination with insects has driven both his research and teaching career. Growing up in Dixon, Illinois, Stewart explored local habitats like Nachusa Grasslands and Green River State Wildlife Area, sparking his interest in prairie ecosystems and native pollinators. While studying at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Stewart researched bumblebee diversity and decline nationwide. His academic achievements earned him a Knowles Science Teaching Foundation Fellowship in 2009, paving the way for a dedicated teaching career. At Black Hawk College, Stewart inspires students through hands-on fieldwork, laboratory investigations, and innovative courses focused on the vital role of pollinators in nature.
