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Findings is the Office of Research’s newsletter, which began in October 2017. It delivers monthly updates to faculty, staff, students, and community partners about impactful research, initiatives, partnerships, events, and opportunities at the University of Cincinnati. To view current and previous issues of the newsletter, go to the Findings page.

Making the Middle Ages Come Alive: Dr. Platts wins outstanding teaching award

Making the Middle Ages Come Alive: Dr. Platts wins outstanding teaching award

Dr. Christopher Platts has been honored with the Medieval Academy of America’s CARA Teaching Award, recognizing his innovative approach to medieval art history at the University of Cincinnati. Through hands-on learning, interdisciplinary collaboration, and community engagement, Platts transforms how students experience the Middle Ages. 

His courses go beyond the classroom, integrating scientific methods such as X-ray fluorescence analysis to examine medieval paintings in real-time. He has also built UC’s medieval teaching collection from the ground up, expanding it to over 200 objects, including illuminated manuscripts and Ethiopian scrolls. This collection fuels exhibitions, public programs, and research projects that connect students with historical artifacts. 

Platts extends this engagement beyond UC through the Art History Outreach Program, where he mentors undergraduates to lead interactive, object-based discussions at local high schools and Cincinnati’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute. Previously recognized with UC’s Junior Faculty Award, he continues to bring medieval art to life for students and the wider community.