Fall 2002

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John Kaplan named ‘Teacher of Year,’ top researcher

John Kaplan and his photographs

An award-winning photojournalist and web designer was named Teacher of the Year in the College in 2002.

Professor John Kaplan, associate professor of journalism and a member of the faculty since 1999, received the award and a $2,000 prize at ceremonies in April.

He was also honored as co-winner of the Faculty Research Award in the College.

Kaplan teaches graphics and photojournalism courses. He was co-adviser to the Hearst photo competition students who finished first nationally in 2001 and 2002.

He directs the Florida FlyIns program in Latin America each fall.

His photos have been featured in exhibitions around the world.

Kaplan’s project, “Surviving Torture,” was featured at the Visa Pour L’image international photojournalism festival in Perpigan, France in September. The festival was described by American Photo magazine as one of the major gatherings of leading photographers and editors in the world.

He won the Pulitzer Prize for feature photography in 1992.

He earned B.S. and M.S. degrees at Ohio University, where he was named a distinguished alumnus.

personality profile

Birthplace? Wilmington, Del.

Undergrad school/major? Ohio University, journalism

Years on UF faculty? 4

Classes taught most often?  Advanced Journalism Practicum: Latin America in Words and Pictures, Advanced Photojournalism II, Graphics of Journalism, Advanced Graphics of Journalism

Why you decided to become a teacher? “I have been fortunate to receive a great deal of help on the way up in my career. I believe it is my responsibility to give some of that back to up-and-coming journalists.”

Best teacher you ever had and why? “Ohio University’s Chuck Scott. Chuck always raised the bar for his students. He was tough but supportive and always had a twinkle in his eye.”

How you’ve changed as a teacher? “I try to improve each year and let my students know that it is OK to make mistakes as long as they are willing to try their best to be effective and credible storytellers.”

Most unforgettable students?  “Recent grads Michael Tercha and Ofelia Casillas. They are both terrific people and were student leaders at UF. I admire their talent and work ethic. It’s no surprise they happen to be a couple. Mike was the 2001 Hearst national champion and is now at the Springfield (Ill.) State Journal Register. Ofelia is now a staff reporter at the Chicago Tribune.”

Last movie attended? One Hour Photo (really)

Professional most admired? “Pat Crowe, who was my first mentor as a photographer in my hometown. Pat is spiritual and supportive. He’s now 63 but still growing and sharing his remarkable vision every day.”

Favorite hobbies? Travel and cooking

How you spent the $2,000 prize?  “After taxes, the prize was automatically deposited into my checking account. Since the account is darn near empty, I suppose it helped me pay my mortgage!”

Family? Wife, Li. (Cat, Sami)