AIɫɫ

This year’s Faculty Excellence Award is presented to Dr. Rhoni Maxwell-Rader, Professor of Psychology in the Department of Social Sciences. The award is presented to a faculty member that has made meaningful contributions to the campus community in the past academic year in teaching and either research or service. Nominated by student Amanda Kimberly, Dr. Maxwell-Rader is recognized for her dedication to student growth through her teaching and classroom commitment.

“Dr. Maxwell-Rader fosters a culture of collaboration and belonging,” said Kimberly. “Whether through open office hours, responsive email communication, or help on graduate school applications, she ensures students feel supported. Her mentorship extends beyond academics – she actively listens to personal challenges and connects students with campus resources when needed.”

The Staff Excellence Award is presented this year to Debra Schwamberger, Procurement Specialist for Finance & Administration. The award is presented to a staff member who has made meaningful contributions to the campus community in the past academic year in student success, service, and assessment. Nominated by Administrative Assistant Rebecca Hutchinson, Schwamberger is recognized for her wealth of knowledge of the university and willingness to help others.

“From day one, she’s been my go-to person, always willing to walk me through any questions I have, no matter how simple or complex, all while making me feel welcome and confident,” said Hutchinson. “Her pleasant disposition makes even the most challenging situations feel manageable. She’s been an exceptional mentor and I’m so grateful for her and feel incredibly fortunate to have had her support on my professional journey.”

This year’s Campus Impact Award is presented to Dr. Kimberly Inman, Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic & Student Affairs. The award is presented to a faculty or staff member who had made a significant positive impact on the campus community over the past academic year in collaboration, leadership, innovation, inclusion and belonging, support of the university’s mission through programming, productive community engagement, or meaningful mentorship. Nominated by Associate Professor of Geology Dr. Erik Larson, Dr. Inman was recognized for her dedication and commitment to SSU in transitioning from the Dean of the College of Arts & Sciences into the Interim Provost position.

“Beyond her work in leadership, she also has been very collaborative and innovative in her efforts across leadership positions,” said Dr. Larson. “I feel like I could go on and on with examples, but I think that she’s worked very hard to be visible, available, and inclusive in her projects.”