Biola alumnus Louima Lilite (‘99) received the Distinguished Teaching Award at Oklahoma Baptist University (OBU). This award, presented on May 13, 2016, is the highest honor for OBU faculty and is awarded to a faculty member who has been teaching at the university for five or more consecutive years.
 
The Distinguished Teaching Award is presented to faculty members who display “quality teaching and faithful, productive service,” and who also exemplify OBU’s “commitment to excellence.” University alumni, current students, faculty and administration submit nominations for the award.
 
“I feel quite humbled and grateful by this recognition,” said Lilite, an associate professor of voice at OBU. He never anticipated receiving the award, as it is typically awarded to faculty members whose careers were longer than his.
 
Lilite’s passion for investing in the lives of students has always been evident. One individual who nominated Lilite for the award even shared that his “priority is glorifying Christ, and it is clearly evident in his expectations and love for his students.
 
Biola University played an important role in Lilite’s academic and professional journey, as his time at the university helped him grow musically and spiritually. 
 
“The 30 units of Bible courses I took at Biola have become a rich reservoir I access daily in all I undertake in my career,” said Lilite. “The numerous opportunities for top-notch student performances and presentations while at Biola have deposited in me a strong commitment to foster similar opportunities for the students placed under my tutelage.”
 
While attending Biola University, Lilite participated in the Biola Chorale, a small jazz ensemble and a chamber chorale. After graduating from Biola with a degree in vocal and piano performance, he earned his master’s degree in music (vocal performance and pedagogy) from Penn State University. Lilite also earned his Doctor of Musical Arts (vocal performance and literature) degree from Eastman School of Music. 
 
Learn more about the Conservatory of Music by visiting their website.
 
Written by Emma Bassett, student music ambassador. For more information, contact Jenna Loumagne, manager of media relations, at (562) 777-4061 or jenna.loumagne@biola.edu.