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Julio Gallego-Delgado, Teacher of the Year
May 21, 2026
Julio Gallego-Delgado, associate professor of biological sciences, brings clarity, warmth, and a strong sense of purpose to the study of biology and parasitology. Students praise his way of connecting course content to real-world health and research issues. In the lab, they point to his patience and hands-on guidance, saying he teaches not only technical skills but also how to think critically, ask better questions, and approach research like a scientist. “At the time, I didn't think a path like that was even open to me, but he saw my potential before I did,” noted one student.
“He has prepared me for what could come, teaching me to think critically, ask meaningful questions, and approach it with curiosity,” said another. His approach to mentorship has been formative for many—extending beyond his courses into research opportunities, professional connections, conference introductions, and continued advice after graduation. One student credited him with changing her entire trajectory: “If he were not the professor, I would not have fallen in love with parasites.”
Learn more about Gallego-Delgado here.
Lehman also celebrates the excellence of adjunct professors and instructors. Adjunct Assistant Professor of Chemistry Raghu Ram Chamala received this distinction for 2026, and participated in this spring's commencement ceremonies as deputy marshal.
Chamala’s high standards are matched by a deep commitment to his students’ growth. They say he brings both rigor and warmth to his organic chemistry courses—a notoriously tough subject. He makes difficult material approachable by building concepts step by step, explaining patiently, and fostering his students’ self-confidence. One student highlighted the way his teaching style encourages people who never speak in class to find their voice to ask and answer questions. His courses are challenging in the best sense, because he asks students to reason through problems and show real understanding, rather than just a good recall of facts. “This, in my opinion, is the essence of education—” said another student, “which is to leave a lifelong appetite for learning.”