Physics professor Jose D’Arruda has been selected as a 2020 Summer Fellow by the American Association of Physics Teachers.

The criterion for selection of Fellows is exceptional contribution to AAPT's mission to enhance the understanding and appreciation of physics through teaching. Fellowship is a distinct honor signifying recognition by one's professional peers.

AAPT is an international organization for physics educators, physicists and industrial scientists—with members worldwide. D’Arruda has been an AAPT member since 1975. Among the longest-serving professors at UNCP, he has taught in the Chemistry and Physics Department for 45 years, serving 23 years as department chair.

Dr. D’Arruda established UNCP’s degree program in applied physics, founded the Region IV Science Fair and was instrumental in creating the 3-plus-2 engineering program with N.C. State University. He also serves as director of the UNCP astronomical observatory and advisor for UNCP’s high-powered rocket competition team. In 2018, he was presented with the Homer L. Dodge Citation for Distinguished Service to AAPT.