Sarah Rogers, a senior instructor in the Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice at the University of South Carolina, has received the 2026 Garnet Apple Award for Teaching Innovation.

Rogers’ teaching in the McCausland College of Arts and Sciences emphasizes student voice, critical reflection and hands-on learning. Grounded in feminist pedagogy and intersectionality, her courses encourage students to examine systems of power and oppression through dialogue and collaboration.

Through collaborative syllabi, student-driven projects and community initiatives such as Reclaim Carolina, Rogers connects criminology coursework with real-world issues. She also developed USC’s first Queer Criminology course, broadening the perspectives represented in the discipline and amplifying marginalized voices.

Her approach encourages students to think critically, engage with diverse perspectives and participate meaningfully in their communities.

Learn more about Rogers and the 2026 Garnet Apple Award winners.