North Central resident James Sousa, a mathematics instructor at Phoenix College, has been named as the 2014 Arizona Professor of the Year, awarded by The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching and the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE).

Phoenix College math students—in addition to students as far away as Namibia—have benefited from the commitment of Sousa, who has developed more than 1,850 free mini-lesson math tutorials on topics ranging from arithmetic to calculus. In addition to using the videos in the classroom to teach his PC students, Sousa also makes the videos available free-of-charge via YouTube to help explain math topics to students around the world. The lessons integrate technology and provide examples to enhance student learning.

Sousa spearheaded the effort to launch free, developmental online math courses at Phoenix College in the fall of 2013 through the use of massive open online classes or MOOCs. The courses help participants who are weary of their math skills gain familiarity and confidence—giving students the opportunity to save time and money.

“I enjoy helping students reach their educational goals and it is an honor to provide students with resources that they can use whenever and wherever they need them at no cost,” said Sousa.

Sousa has been a member of the Phoenix College faculty for the last 12 years. “James brings innovation and enthusiasm to our math department,” said Anna Solley, president of Phoenix College. “I am delighted for him to be recognized for his outstanding commitment to student success, not only here at Phoenix College, but across the country and around the world.”

For more information about the award, visit http://www.usprofessorsoftheyear.org.