Michael Bitter has been an assistant professor in the History Department at UH Hilo since August 1999. His presence captures the attention of his entire class, mesmerizing students from other disciplines as much as it does history majors. His dynamic style of teaching helps students develop a stronger interest in history. Group discussions, different forms of media and thought-provoking writing assignments keep them on their toes. From explaining a method for remembering the spelling of “medieval”to putting current events into historical context, Bitter uses any means possible to get his ideas across. His lectures are organized and assignments, returned promptly.

Bitter’s nurtures meaningful relationships with his students and exhibits sincere interest in their academic careers and futures. He easily tunes into their thoughts and questions; in class or his office, his time is his students’ time. As advisor of the History Club, he injects creativity into otherwise ordinary events. A fundraising hot dog sale became "sausage history," and Bitter volunteered a full day as a celebrity cook.

Students credit Bitter for their decision to major in history. A non-traditional student, apprehensive about attending college full time, said Bitter gave her inner strength to persue her dreams. Another student wrote, “Dr. Bitter demonstrates his love of teaching with great depth, energy and passion.”