The Department of Forest Biomaterials is proud to share that Lokendra Pal, EJ “Woody” Rice Professor of Paper Science and Engineering (PSE) and Sustainable Biomaterials, has been named a recipient of NC State’s 2024-25 Alumni Distinguished Undergraduate Professor (ADUP) Award. This honor is the university’s highest recognition for excellence in undergraduate teaching.

“Receiving this award reaffirms my passion for teaching and mentoring students to help them become critical thinkers, effective team players, and lifelong learners — skills that guide success in both career and life,” Pal said.

Pal is known among students and colleagues alike for his passion, energy, and dedication in the classroom and laboratory. He teaches senior-level courses in process engineering and paper process analysis, where he combines cutting-edge technology, industry relevance, and hands-on learning to prepare students for leadership in the forest products industry and beyond. His student-centered approach includes flexible learning structures, team-based projects, and engaging lab experiences that connect theory to real-world challenges.

Beyond the classroom, Pal has mentored over 100 undergraduate researchers, launched impactful outreach programs, including the PSE High School Summer Camp, and played a pivotal role in strengthening partnerships with industry and alumni. His commitment to teaching extends far beyond delivering technical knowledge; he seeks to instill critical thinking, confidence, and lifelong curiosity in every student he mentors.

This award not only recognizes Pal’s outstanding contributions to undergraduate education but also highlights the transformative impact he continues to have on students, the department, and the broader NC State community.

We spoke with Pal about what receiving the teaching award means to him, his student-centered teaching style, and the impact he strives to make in the classroom. Check out the Q&A below.

What does receiving the Alumni Distinguished Undergraduate Professor Award mean to you personally and professionally?

PAL: This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication that the PSE program instills in our faculty. Personally, it is an incredible honor to be recognized with the ADUP award, and it reaffirms the reason I joined NC State after working many years in the industry.

What do you find most rewarding about teaching and mentoring undergraduate students at NC State?

PAL: PSE is one of the best undergraduate programs in our field nationally, and it is both gratifying and fulfilling to teach, mentor, and be part of students’ journeys as young professionals.

What message would you like to share with your students, past and present, as you receive this award?

PAL: To my Wolfpack family: dream big, work hard, and stay humble. Thank you to everyone who has been part of my NC State journey.

How do you hope your teaching will influence students long after they leave your classroom?

PAL: Two of my senior-level classes—one focusing on data science and continuous improvement, and the other on hands-on learning, teamwork, and problem-solving — are gateways to industry. The skills students gain in these courses will help them not only advance in their careers but also grow personally.

This article was written by Sara Gregory for the Department of Forest Biomaterials.