Vanderbilt Professor Honored with Chancellor's Cup

Dan Morgan recognized for immersive research and mentorship of undergraduate and graduate students.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 12:10am

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A brightly colored, high-contrast silkscreen print of a mortar board graduation cap repeated in a tight grid pattern, representing the iconic symbol of academic achievement transformed into modern pop art.The Chancellor's Cup honors Vanderbilt faculty who inspire students through immersive learning and dedicated mentorship.Today in Nashville

Dan Morgan, a principal senior lecturer in earth and environmental sciences at Vanderbilt University, has been awarded the 2026 Chancellor's Cup for his enthusiastic dedication to undergraduate and graduate students through immersion research, mentoring, and support over nearly two decades at the university.

Why it matters

The Chancellor's Cup is one of Vanderbilt's most prestigious faculty awards, recognizing professors who have made exceptional contributions to the university's educational mission and student experience outside the classroom.

The details

Morgan is known for leading immersive field research trips, including two-month undergraduate projects in Antarctica, as well as extensive learning opportunities in the Rocky Mountains and other sites. Students describe his mentorship as tireless, intentional, and deeply supportive, helping prepare them for challenging environments and fostering inclusive, collaborative research teams.

  • On April 7, 2026, Chancellor Daniel Diermeier and Provost C. Cybele Raver presented Morgan with the prestigious award.
  • Morgan has been a faculty member at Vanderbilt for nearly two decades.

The players

Dan Morgan

A principal senior lecturer in earth and environmental sciences at Vanderbilt University who has been recognized for his exceptional mentorship and support of undergraduate and graduate students.

Chancellor Daniel Diermeier

The chancellor of Vanderbilt University who presented Morgan with the Chancellor's Cup award.

Provost C. Cybele Raver

The provost of Vanderbilt University who presented Morgan with the Chancellor's Cup award.

Nashville Vanderbilt Club

The organization that established the Chancellor's Cup award in 1963 to recognize faculty members for their contributions to undergraduate student-faculty relationships.

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What they’re saying

“Dan embodies the very best of the Vanderbilt spirit-a collaborative scholar who leads students into some of the most challenging frontiers of discovery.”

— Chancellor Daniel Diermeier

“Dan has enhanced the undergraduate experience through committed mentorship and a profound dedication to immersive research. We are delighted to celebrate him with the Chancellor's Cup.”

— Chancellor Daniel Diermeier

The takeaway

Morgan's recognition with the prestigious Chancellor's Cup underscores Vanderbilt's commitment to providing transformative educational experiences that go beyond the classroom, empowering students to pursue ambitious research and exploration under the guidance of dedicated faculty mentors.