Dr. Matt Hassett’s classroom is more than just a place of learning — it’s a space where students find inspiration, mentorship and the confidence to challenge the world around them. That unwavering dedication to student success has earned Hassett the 2025 UNC Board of Governors Award for Excellence in Teaching, one of the highest honors bestowed upon faculty in North Carolina’s public universities.

Dr. Hassett, an associate professor of sociology and criminal justice at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, is renowned for his engaging teaching and his unwavering mentorship, which has transformed the lives of countless students. Hassett pushes students beyond the textbook, helping them connect course concepts to real-world applications that shape their lives and careers.

Dr. Hassett clearly put thought into each assignment, providing feedback that helped me improve,” said former student Ronnie Kennedy, now a patrol sergeant with the Burgaw Police Department. “His constructive criticism showed me that my work mattered, and I wasn’t just completing tasks for a grade—I was genuinely learning and building career skills.”

Kennedy credits Hassett’s teaching style with fostering a deep sense of engagement in the classroom. “His teaching style made every student feel important. Your effort in his class wasn’t just about earning a grade—it was about personal growth and development.”

Each year, the UNC Board of Governors selects only 17 faculty members across North Carolina’s public universities to receive this prestigious award, which recognizes exceptional teaching, mentorship, and academic contributions. Hassett will receive a commemorative bronze medallion, a cash award and recognition at spring commencement.

“Professor Hassett exemplifies the highest standards of teaching excellence and dedication to student success,” said Provost Diane Prusank. “His unwavering commitment to inspiring and empowering his students has profoundly impacted our campus community. This award is a testament to his passion for education and innovative learning approach. We are incredibly proud to have him as a member of our faculty.”

Hassett grew up in Pennsylvania, surrounded by law enforcement officers, a family legacy that strongly influenced his career path. He admired his grandfather, Donald Kudla, a veteran police officer for the city of Pittsburgh. Though he never pictured himself wearing a badge or carrying a gun, he always knew his future lay in the study of criminology and research — the academic side of law enforcement.

“I fell in love with research while pursuing a master’s degree at Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP),” Hassett said. “My interest in studying legal matters and the criminal justice system reflects much of what my grandfather did for many years. I can serve my community by studying criminology, just as my grandfather did.”
Hassett earned his PhD from IUP before joining the UNCP faculty in 2018. He believes higher education aims to develop students’ critical thinking skills.

“I tell my students, I’m not here to tell you what to think. As professors, we are here to show you how to examine things differently.”

For junior Aiden Stewart, Hassett’s approachable style transformed the classroom into a place where students felt comfortable speaking up and seeking guidance. 

“He’s one with the students. He doesn’t make it seem like he is above us. Even though he is an authority figure, he makes it easy to talk to him about anything.”

When Stewart faced a personal hardship, Hassett didn’t just offer support — he took action, ensuring she could complete her coursework online without added stress. 

“That left an impact on me,” Stewart said.

Senior Katie Aguilar-Manueles said Hassett is renowned for his willingness to go above and beyond for his students.

“Coming to UNCP as a first-generation student, college was daunting,” Aguilar-Manueles said. “I was thinking everything was going to be rigid, and my professors were going to have these expectations. He instilled in me that it’s okay to make mistakes and learn from them as a student, and it’s okay not to do everything perfectly because we are here to learn. He ensures that at the end of the day –– that’s what we are here to do.” 

Hassett’s impact extends well beyond the classroom, shaping students into critical thinkers and engaged citizens. His dedication to mentorship and academic excellence is not just a hallmark of his career—it’s a legacy that will continue to inspire generations of UNCP students.