Steven Kanczewski named finalist for Charlotte’s 2026 Teaching Excellence Award
Steven Kanczewski, lecturer in the Turner School of Accountancy, has been named a finalist for Charlotte’s 2026 Teaching Excellence Award for non-tenured faculty. Award recipients will be announced Thursday, Sept. 24, during a reception in the Popp Martin Student Union Multipurpose Room.
Steven Kanczewski is a lecturer whose teaching is defined by rigor, empathy and an unwavering commitment to preparing students not only for their next exam, but for the next chapter of their lives. He believes students remember not just what you teach, but how you make them feel — a principle that guides every interaction in his classroom and beyond.
Across his courses, Kanczewski strives to be more than an instructor. He serves as a mentor, coach and supporter, creating a welcoming environment where students feel comfortable asking questions, seeking guidance and exploring their aspirations.
“One of the most exhilarating things to witness as a teacher is the significant year‑over‑year growth of our students, who mature so much between freshman and senior year,” Kanczewski said. “I am passionate about early talent development and career readiness and am committed to connecting Belk College of Business students with working professionals through various channels.”
Kanczewski is recognized for his transformative contributions to the Turner School of Accountancy through his innovative career‑exploration project now embedded in every Principles of Accounting I section. By connecting students in small‑group Zoom conversations with accounting professionals, he has broadened their understanding of the field and dispelled common misconceptions, driving a rise in majors from 241 to nearly 500 in just three years.
“Kanczewski’s positive attitude radiates not only in his class but wherever he goes,” said undergraduate student Aaron Anderson. “His teaching style set me on the path toward accounting. However, his practical knowledge and experience of corporate America — and his willingness to share that — is what really drew me in.”
Kanczewski teaches all professional development course sections, designing a curriculum that equips students with essential professionalism skills and prepares them for internships, full‑time employment and early‑career success. Accounting firms consistently praise UNC Charlotte graduates for being career‑ready, and his efforts have strengthened on‑campus recruiting and expanded professional opportunities for students.
“Being an award-winning teacher is about educating students to be prepared for successful long-term careers in their chosen field, with knowledge and important skills,” said Scott Vandervelde, director of the Turner School of Accountancy. “Steven has consistently displayed his dedication to educating students inside and outside of the classroom.”
Kanczewski has also played a key leadership role in recent curriculum redesign efforts in the Turner School of Accountancy. As the profession and licensure requirements evolved, he was the first to volunteer for the team charged with overhauling both undergraduate and graduate programs. Drawing on his teaching experience and background as a CPA, he provided essential insight that shaped the new curriculum. He also secured a grant from a Big Four accounting firm to support the redesign process. His commitment to strengthening the curriculum reflects his dedication to student learning and to preparing graduates for long, successful careers.
The other finalists for the UNC Charlotte Award for Teaching Excellence for non‑tenured faculty are Sayde Brais, teaching professor of communication studies and Oscar Lansen, teaching professor of history. Honorable mention finalists include Jeanne‑Marie “Ree” Linker, senior lecturer in mathematics and statistics and Regina Vrikkis, teaching associate professor of mechanical engineering and engineering science.