HCC photography instructor recognized for innovative teaching

Jul 20, 2015

An Andre Hermann photography class at Houston Community College could definitely be considered outside of the box. He encourages failure due to experimentation as an engine for growth. He likes to see learning photographers get out of their comfort zones, and he doesn’t shy away from one-on-one interaction when teaching in the field. 

It is an approach that errs more on the side of mentor than instructor; it is a style that has been noticed. Hermann recently received the National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development (NISOD) Excellence and Innovation in Teaching Award and was inducted into the Alpha Sigma Lambda Honor Society for outstanding achievement in working with students, in community service and student organizations. 

“To me this recognition means that in the short amount of time I have been part of the HCC family, I am doing something right to help support and promote the students, the Digital Communication program and the school,” Hermann said. “That’s all that matters.” 

Hermann’s mentoring style of teaching can be traced back to his days as a Masters of Fine Arts student. He had multiple mentors, including award-winning photojournalists Ed Kashi, James Nachtwey, and Richard Koci Hernandez. These men took the time to take Hermann under their wings and he looks to pay it forward daily. 

“A good mentor will make you love what you do even more, and push you strive for greater things,” Hermann said. “Whether they are looking to become a pro photographer or just make better pictures of their families, friends, pets, etc. I want them to have the same experience I had.” 

Hermann has been featured in the New York Times Lens Blog, The Wall Street Journal and NPR. He said mentors are an integral part of the learning process, especially in photography. To experience a Hermann-taught class first hand visit hccs.edu/apply.