College celebrates faculty, staff with annual awards for 2025-26 year
The College of Education celebrated the accomplishments of faculty and staff during the annual end-of-year celebration at Wildwood Park in April. During the celebration, fourteen awards were presented to those individuals who showcased outstanding teaching, research and service during the 2025-26 academic year.
Advancing Care, Belonging and Opportunity Award
There were three recipients of the new Advancing Care, Belonging and Opportunity Award. The Educational Leadership (EdD) team, Dr. Kristin Burnette and Dr. Rebecca Clark-Stallkamp were the 2026 recipients of the award. The College of Education Award for Advancing Care, Belonging, and Opportunity honors faculty, staff, and teams whose work reflects a deep commitment to fostering supportive, inclusive, and opportunity-rich educational environments. Rooted in the College’s mission, this award recognizes those who lead with intention by strengthening learning conditions, expanding access, and building capacity within our classrooms, programs, and communities.
Public Service Award
Dr. Vanessa Irvin received the 2026 Public Service Award. The Public Service Award recognizes those who have made significant contributions through volunteerism, advocacy and outreach efforts that enhance educational and related opportunities and outcomes for all. Recipients exemplify the spirit of service and civic responsibility and promote a culture of care and belonging.
Regional Transformation Award
The Rural Education Institute (REI) team received the 2026 Regional Transformation Award. The Regional Transformation Award celebrates outstanding research efforts that have made significant contributions to the advancement of education within the region. The researcher’s work addresses critical educational challenges and drives transformative change in local communities.
Scholarship and Creative Activities Award
Dr. Xi Lin received the 2026 Scholarship and Creative Activities Award. The Scholarship and Creative Activities Excellence Award recognizes faculty who demonstrate exceptional contributions to research and scholarship that advance the college’s and university’s strategic priorities. This work should generate new knowledge, apply innovative methodologies and address critical issues in education.
Staff Excellence Award
Lori Cohens received the 2026 Staff Excellence Award. The Staff Excellence Award recognizes outstanding staff members who demonstrate exceptional dedication and service within the college through their work, collaborative spirit and positive impact on student success and a culture of care and belonging.
Student Success Teaching Award
Dr. Danielle Dietz received the 2026 Student Success Teaching Award. The Student Success Teaching Award recognizes exceptional educators who have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to fostering student success through innovative teaching methods, engaging learning environments and actively support the academic and personal growth of their students.
College Anchor Award
Four awardees received the 2026 College Anchor Award: Drs. Elizabeth Swaggerty, Tony Thompson, Allison Crowe and Chris Rivera. The College Anchor is for individuals whose dedication and behind-the-scenes efforts are integral to the college’s function. Their tireless work, support of others and consistent presence embodies the values of the college.
The Dean’s Award
Two individuals received the 2026 Dean’s Award: Al Barnhill and Toni Tucker. The Dean’s Award was created to recognize a COE faculty or staff member whose dedication, leadership and innovation leave a lasting impact on the college and community. The recipient consistently demonstrates a deep commitment to the mission, takes initiative and works collaboratively to create positive, meaningful solutions.