Temeles, whose recent work focuses on co-evolution between hummingbirds and their flowers, teaches courses on biological adaptation and ecology.
He has supervised numerous thesis projects and said that he anticipates that his current research will provide opportunities for student field work in Central and South America. Temeles voiced excitement over the intellectual freedom that he believes tenure will bring him.
"In recent weeks, I have realized more and more that tenure means the freedom to pursue research and teaching in whatever directions I want to go, without restrictions," said Temeles.
"It also reflects on one's accumulation of knowledge over a number of years," he added. "That is, it is an affirmation from your senior peers that you really do know something and represent a source of information for faculty and students alike."
He said that his future teaching plans include the creation a lecture course on ecology and the environment and a course for majors on experimental technique and design. "All students need to be informed about environmental issues," Temeles said.
Professor of Biology David Ratner, who chairs the department, described Temeles as a dedicated teacher and research scientist.
"It's been something of a joke in the department that Ethan is always here," he said. "The man works as hard as a faculty member could to support his students and even us colleagues. We appreciate not only his dedication but also scientific rigor and insights. What else could we ask?"
Saxton said that she responded to the news of her tenure with "delight, relief and a great sense of welcome."
"The apprenticeship is long and can sometimes be dispiriting particularly if a class goes poorly, as it sometimes does," she said. "The support of my colleagues has meant an enormous amount to me and is uniquely affirming in my experience."
At present, Saxton is completing a book on women, moral values, and their associated emotional styles in the early Republic. She said that students have contributed to her work in various ways, such as doing research and transcribing a 19th century journal.
Chair of the history department and Professor of Black Studies David Blight expressed excitement over the College's decision to grant Saxton tenure.
"She's a terrific scholar and a wonderful teacher," he said. "We're hoping that now more students will take American women's history."
Saxton teaches courses on American women's history from 1607-1865 and from 1865-present. She also teaches a course titled, "Church, Family and Culture in 19th Century America," which she credited with helping her think through areas of her research.
"In classes, we have read together numerous texts that relate to my work, and I am always gathering new insightful readings from classroom discussions," Saxton said.
In a prepared statement sent to The Amherst Student, Takeyama said, "I'd like to thank the many wonderful Amherst students who have supported me-you have made my experience here truly rewarding."
"The tenure process is a very complete appraisal," said Professor of Economics and member of the Committee of Six Walter Nicholson. "There's a huge amount of information and there's a lot of contemplation."