Dr. Zoe Cohen named 2026 Bobcat Senior Honorary Faculty of the Year
Bobcat Yazin Hindosh, a senior majoring in physiology and medical sciences, presents Dr. Zoe Cohen with the 2026 Bobcat Senior Honorary Faculty of the Year award.
The Bobcat Senior Honorary has selected Associate Professor of Physiology Zoe Cohen, PhD, as its 2026 Faculty of the Year, recognizing her exceptional dedication to student success, mentorship and community impact.
Bobcat Yazin Hindosh, a senior majoring in physiology and medical sciences, submitted the nomination and presented her with the award at the group’s Evening of Excellence. “What sets this year’s winner apart is the relationships she builds with her students,” he said. “She doesn’t just teach students for a semester — she invests in them for a lifetime.”
“That level of connection is rare. It speaks to how deeply she cares, how genuinely she listens, and how committed she is to every student’s journey.”
Dr. Cohen has been instrumental in developing transformative programs such as the W.A. Franke Honors College Honors Early Assurance Program (HEAP) and the College of Medicine – Tucson Accelerated Pathway to Medical Education (APME), both designed to support students early in their academic journeys and provide structured pathways to medical school. Through these initiatives, she has helped broaden access and create sustained support systems that position students for long-term success.
“I’m thrilled to see Dr. Cohen recognized by students,” said Mingyu Liang, MB, PhD, chair of the physiology department. “Dr. Cohen exemplifies the creativity, dedication and care for students that makes our physiology faculty so outstanding.”
Her dedication to students extends beyond the classroom. She directs and supports the Physiology Club, one of the largest undergraduate pre-health organizations, where students explore interests, build connections and gain exposure to careers in medicine. She also co-founded and serves as assistant director of the Scholarly Projects program, encouraging medical students to pursue independent research while fostering curiosity, critical thinking and innovation. The experience strengthens residency applications and prepares students to ask questions, seek evidence and advance medicine.
“I am honored and humbled by this award. My students mean the world to me and being a small part of their journey is what gives me the most joy,” said Dr. Cohen.
“Teaching these amazing students, and becoming friends with them, is the most fulfilling part of working at the University of Arizona. I thank the Bobcats and the Foundation for this award!”
Founded in 1922, the Bobcat Senior Honorary is a student-led organization that selects 13 outstanding seniors each year to continue a legacy of service, leadership and commitment to the University of Arizona. They operate with support from the Bobcat Alumni group and the University of Arizona Foundation.