Dr. Katia Petkova is a passionate, student-centered educator whose compassion, clarity, and relentless support have left a lasting impact on her learners.

Students praise her clear, thoughtful teaching and practical study tools that make complex material accessible and help them succeed across courses. Her genuine joy in students’ achievements is evident; she celebrates their progress and invests in their long-term success. Katia is recognized for seeing students as whole people.

One nominee shared how Dr. Petkova recognized and reached out to a student struggling with grief, academic stress, and accommodations long before the student asked for help, providing encouragement, follow-up, and flexible support that kept the student enrolled and on track to graduate. Her patience, empathy, and advocacy turn moments of crisis into opportunities for resilience and growth.

She also creates meaningful traditions and connections: when students missed a campus-wide pinning ceremony, Dr. Petkova organized a heartfelt, personalized pinning in the student commons, sharing individual stories and creating a core memory for the class. Her ongoing check-ins in hallways and willingness to stay connected after class demonstrate how deeply she cares about students beyond grades and assignments.

For compassionate mentorship, exceptional teaching, and unwavering dedication to student well-being and success, Dr. Katia Petkova is a richly deserving DAISY Honoree.