Learning always is the secret for rewards, said James Giles, an NIU English professor who is one of three professors being honored with the 2004 Presidential Teaching Professorship Award.

Giles teaches American literature to both undergraduate and graduate students.

He also is the author of eight books and the co-author of six.

Giles graduated from Texas Christian University with a bachelor’s degree in 1960 and earned his master’s in 1961, he said.

After he finished his Ph.D. in 1967 at the University of Texas, he taught at North Texas University as an assistant professor. In 1970, he started teaching at NIU.

Since then, he has dedicated his life to teaching, writing and research, he said.

The Presidential Teaching Professorship Award was established to recognize outstanding teachers, Vice Provost Earl Seaver said.

For professors to receive the professorship, they must instill and develop in students the value of the subject, Seaver said.

Professors also must apply rigorous standards and command respect, he said. He said professors must demonstrate extraordinary commitment, develop effective instructional methods and work actively with students.

Candidates for the professorship must have taught at NIU for at least six years, be tenured and have the rank of full professor, Seaver said.

As part of the professorship award, Giles will receive a $2,000 salary adjustment and a grant of $5,000 per year to improve his teaching skills.

Giles said now he will have more money for his research.

“I feel humbled,” he said.