Dr. John Hanneken, associate professor of physics Thomas W. Briggs Foundation Excellence in Teaching Award The 2005 Thomas W. Briggs Foundation Excellence in Teaching Award goes to Dr. John Hanneken, associate professor of physics. Dr. Hanneken is noted for being an excellent teacher in both classroom and laboratory settings. He offers popular lectures on such topics as the physics of sports, cold fusion and hydrogen economy. “Dr. Hanneken is so enthusiastic about the material he is teaching that you cannot help but enjoy his class,” wrote a student in her nomination. “He is a challenging teacher who will push students to their full potential.” A graduate of Ohio University , Hanneken earned a master's degree from the University of Houston and a doctorate from Rice University . Congratulations, Dr. Hanneken.