Bechtold, of Ridgewood, received the master teacher designation for having demonstrated the highest level of teaching excellence. The designation is conferred by the NJIT Provost on tenured professors whose teaching has had a profound impact on NJIT students. The professors, who keep the title the entire length of their careers, are expected to take leadership roles in helping the university develop teaching excellence.

“Bechtold has established an exemplary record as a teacher and educator at NJIT and has been an integral part of the success of the department of mathematical sciences,” said NJIT Provost Priscilla Nelson, upon conferring the award upon Bechtold. “He is an outstanding teacher who has had a positive and lasting impact on the many students who have taken his classes and benefited from his considerable talents and dedication.”

Bechtold has also served the NJIT community through his continued involvement in advising, mentoring and curriculum development, she said.