The Faculty Grants for the Improvement of Undergraduate Instruction, Excellence in Teaching Awards, and Distinguished Teaching Professorships programs were implemented in 1972 by the State University of New York (SUNY) in an effort to recognize and reward teaching excellence. An evaluation of these programs was conducted as part of a national assessment project sponsored by the Department of Health, Education and Welfare. The study included surveys of 1,500 faculty members to determine their awareness of and reaction to the programs, and a survey of program participants concerning the selection process and program impact. In addition, interviews were conducted at nine SUNY campuses with program administrators, committee members and participants concerning program implementation. Sample items are appended. Although each group expressed general approval of the programs, 85% of the faculty felt that they had little or no impact upon the importance accorded teaching. Program participants also felt that the most marked result of participation was heightened personal satisfaction, and administrators and committee members felt that factors irrelevant to teaching excellence had a bearing upon award decisions. The dissemination of information among departments, administration and campuses is a major barrier to the effectiveness of these programs. Suggestions for program improvements are offered. (Author/JAC)