In his Spring 2008 Convocation address, Bellarmine College Dean Michael Engh, S.J., announced the creation of a new professorship to be shared across the college meant to recognize excellence in teaching and scholarship. The first winner of the Daum Professorship is English Professor Linda Bannister.

"We have fixed professorships and endowed chairs, but I want to recognize people who are examples in the college, who personify the commitment to offering a transformative educational experience at LMU," Engh said in his address.

The Daum Professorship will be an annual award given to a senior member of the BCLA faculty who is "noted for excellence in teaching with a strong commitment to advising students," Engh said. "I want to recognize someone with an excellent habit of scholarship or creative work, who has excelled in service to department, the college and university."

Among the requirements for eligibility is that the faculty member be in residence in the coming academic year; not be an existing chair, fellowship or professorship holder; and not currently be an academic department chair.

While Engh selected Bannister for the kickoff, he said in future years he will seek nominations by department for the position.