Students say Parag Mahajan has a unique ability to turn challenging economic concepts into lessons that are clear, engaging and approachable. In recognition of that impact, the University of Delaware economics professor received the 2026 Excellence in Honors Teaching Award from the Honors College.
The annual award recognizes faculty members who demonstrate exceptional dedication to Honors students and create transformative learning experiences both inside and outside the classroom. Mahajan was one of two faculty members selected for the 2026 honor and was recognized during the Honors Medal Ceremony on May 21.
Nominations for the award were submitted by Honors students, many of whom credited Mahajan with helping them build confidence during their first year at UD.
“Professor Mahajan has supported my learning and understanding of ECON 101 immensely throughout my first semester at the University of Delaware,” one student wrote.
Another student noted that “he gets through difficult material in a simple and in-depth way that is easy to follow,” while a third credited Mahajan with helping transform “my first year in college from something stressful to something confident and secure.”
One nomination perhaps summed it up best: “Professor Mahajan is just, simply put, the best teacher I have ever had.”
“There are many amazing faculty teaching Honors classes across campus, so we congratulate you on being identified as the best of the best,” wrote Honors College Dean Michael Chajes in notifying Mahajan of the award. “We are so thankful for faculty like you that, time and again, go above and beyond in teaching our Honors students.”
Mahajan joined UD’s Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics in 2020 as an assistant professor of economics. His research examines labor economics, immigration and labor mobility, with a particular focus on how workers move through labor markets and the effects those movements have on businesses and communities.
He earned his Ph.D. in public policy and economics from the University of Michigan, a master’s degree in public policy from Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government and a bachelor’s degree in mathematical methods in the social sciences and economics from Northwestern University.
While Mahajan’s scholarship has earned recognition within his field, students consistently point to his teaching, mentorship and accessibility as among his greatest strengths. Through his courses, he helps students develop analytical thinking skills while building the confidence needed to tackle complex economic questions.
The Excellence in Honors Teaching Award reflects the impact faculty can have on students’ academic journeys and recognizes Mahajan’s commitment to helping students succeed. For the Honors students who nominated him, the award serves as a fitting tribute to a professor whose influence extends far beyond the classroom.