Dr. Bonjun Koo earns 2020 CBU distinguished professor award

Riverside, Calif. (May 22, 2020) – California Baptist University has named Dr. Bonjun Koo, professor of environmental science, as the Distinguished Professor for 2020. 

The CBU Board of Trustees each year selects a professor who has established an impressive record of service to receive the award.

“Dr. Koo is an amazing faculty member who strives for excellence in his teaching, scholarship and service,” said Dr. Lisa Hernández, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences.

Hernández said Koo inspires the same level of rigor and excellence in his students as he would expect from himself. Koo also maintains an active research program for his students and himself, she added.

Koo serves on several university committees, including those dealing with CBU’s green initiatives. He is a faculty advisor for the Korean Associated Student Club and Environmental Science Club. Additionally, Koo works closely with both CBU’s Global Initiatives and University Advancement teams to recruit students and donors alike.

Koo also has spearheaded program review efforts for environmental science and organizes and leads an eco-tour to a different country each year. He serves as a member of 10 professional organizations and reviews manuscripts for professional journals. Additionally, he is a board member of the Inland Korean American Association and serves as an ordained deacon, Bible teacher, cell group leader and treasurer for the Riverside Korean Baptist Church.

“Dr. Bonjun Koo is a great champion for the programs within the biological sciences and the university as a whole. He serves as an ambassador for CBU on campus, within the community, and abroad,” Hernández said.

“His dedication and passion for teaching his content and developing research is inspiring to both his students and his colleagues. Dr. Koo is an exemplary faculty member and an excellent choice for Distinguished Professor of the Year,” Hernández said.